Gemstone & Jewelry 101 September 17, 2025

Oval vs Round Engagement Ring Price Guide: Which Shape Saves You More Money?

by PattiRing 0 comments

Why Shape Impacts Engagement Ring Prices

When shopping for an engagement ring, the diamond shape is one of the first and most important decisions. It defines not only the ring’s style and sparkle but also plays a major role in the price. Among all diamond shapes, oval and round engagement rings are two of the most popular choices—and each has its unique advantages.

Oval diamonds are trending, offering a modern, elegant look with a cost advantage, while round brilliant diamonds are classic, timeless, and known for maximum sparkle. Understanding how shape affects both appearance and cost can help you make a more informed decision. This guide breaks down the differences in cost, style, and overall appeal, helping you choose a ring that fits both your taste and budget.

What Makes Oval Cut Engagement Rings Special?

Oval cut diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years, loved by modern brides and celebrities alike. The elongated shape creates the illusion of a larger stone, which means you can get more visual impact without paying as much as you would for a round diamond of the same carat weight. This makes oval engagement rings an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want a striking, elegant look.

Popular styles include:

Oval solitaire engagement ring – a classic and elegant choice that puts the focus entirely on the diamond.
Oval halo engagement rings – adds extra sparkle with smaller diamonds surrounding the center stone.
Oval bezel engagement ring – modern, sleek, and highly secure, perfect for active lifestyles.
Hidden halo oval engagement ring – offers a luxury look while keeping costs reasonable.
Best Metals for Oval Rings:
Gold oval engagement rings remain a timeless and versatile option, available in yellow, rose, or white gold.
Oval diamonds pair beautifully with both natural and lab-grown stones, giving flexibility for buyers seeking either tradition or sustainability.

Leaf Design Oval Cut Moissanite Engagement Ring Rose Gold

Why Round Brilliant Cut is the Classic Choice

The round brilliant cut remains the most popular diamond shape worldwide. Its symmetrical facets are designed to maximize sparkle, making it the most brilliant of all cuts. Round diamonds are often seen as timeless and versatile, fitting both traditional and contemporary ring designs.

However, round diamonds are generally more expensive per carat. This is because cutting a round diamond produces more waste from the rough stone, and high demand keeps prices elevated. Still, for those seeking a classic look that never goes out of style, a round engagement ring can be a long-term investment.

Popular settings include:

Solitaire round engagement ring – timeless and elegant, perfect for showcasing a high-quality diamond.
Round halo engagement rings – enhances sparkle by surrounding the center diamond with smaller stones.
Three-stone round engagement rings – symbolizes past, present, and future, adding sentimental value to the purchase.

Round Cut Lab Diamond Split Shank Engagement Ring

Oval vs Round Engagement Ring Price Comparison

One of the most significant differences between oval and round diamonds is the price per carat.

Feature	Oval Engagement Ring	Round Engagement Ring
Average Price	10–30% less per carat	Higher per carat due to demand and cutting waste
Appearance on Finger	Elongated shape looks larger	More compact, classic look
Popular Styles	Solitaire, halo, bezel, hidden halo	Solitaire, halo, three-stone
Budget-Friendly Options	Lab-grown or moissanite for big savings	Mostly natural diamonds, limited lab-grown options
Trend Factor	Modern and stylish	Classic and timeless
Resale Value	Lower than round	Typically higher long-term

Example: A 1.0-carat round diamond may cost around $6,000, while an oval diamond of the same quality could be about $4,500.

In addition to price, oval diamonds have the advantage of appearing larger due to their elongated shape. This means that even at a slightly lower carat weight, an oval diamond can look more substantial on the finger compared to a round diamond.

Factors That Influence Price Beyond Shape

Even after choosing between oval or round, several other factors affect the final cost of your engagement ring:

Metal Type – Gold oval engagement rings tend to be more affordable than platinum. Rose gold or yellow gold not only enhances the diamond’s color but also adds warmth and style to the overall design.
Ring Style – Halo oval engagement rings or intricate designs add brilliance but can increase the price. Solitaire designs remain timeless and budget-friendly, while three-stone rings offer sentimental meaning at a higher cost.
Diamond Origin – Natural diamonds generally cost more but can hold higher resale value. Lab-grown oval engagement rings and moissanite options provide eco-friendly alternatives at a fraction of the price.

Additionally, cut quality, clarity, and color of the diamond will also affect the price. Higher-quality cuts tend to maximize sparkle and make the diamond appear larger, giving better value for the money.

Which Engagement Ring Shape Saves You More Money?

Oval engagement rings: Lower cost per carat, appear larger on the finger, and are trending in 2025. They are ideal for brides seeking style and visual impact without overspending.
Round engagement rings: Higher price per carat, classic and timeless, and generally have better long-term resale value. They are perfect for buyers looking for a traditional, enduring design.

If your priority is saving money while maximizing the stone’s visual impact, oval engagement rings clearly come out ahead.

Black Gold Oval Cut Moissanite Engagement Ring with Cluster Accents

Round Cut Lab Diamond Leaf Engagemen Ring

Shopping Tips to Maximize Your Budget

Consider slightly smaller carat weights (e.g., 0.9ct instead of 1ct) to reduce cost without noticeable difference in appearance.

Explore lab-grown or moissanite oval engagement rings for significant savings. Lab-grown diamonds can be 30–40% cheaper than natural stones, while moissanite can cost up to 80% less.

Hidden halo settings provide a luxurious appearance while keeping costs manageable.

Consider combination metals or mixed settings, like a gold band with platinum accents, to balance style and budget.

Conclusion

Both oval and round engagement rings are stunning choices, but if saving money without compromising size and style is your goal, the oval cut engagement ring is the clear winner. Its elongated shape appears larger, it costs less per carat, and it comes in countless trendy styles, including solitaire, halo, hidden halo, and gold settings.

Ultimately, the best engagement ring is the one that reflects your personal style and fits your budget. Whether you choose an oval or a round diamond, your ring will hold priceless meaning and beauty for years to come.