Oval Cut Moissanite Engagement Rings

The oval cut is the second most popular shape for engagement rings and has been growing rapidly in demand over the past five years. When you choose oval engagement rings, you select an elongated brilliant shape that combines the fire and brilliance of a round diamond with a slimming finger lengthening silhouette. The oval cut features approximately fifty six to fifty eight facets arranged in a brilliant pattern similar to the round brilliant. The shape is an ellipse when viewed from above with rounded ends and curved sides that taper gently. The oval cut was developed in the 1960s by Lazare Kaplan, a Russian born diamond cutter who sought to create a shape that offered the brilliance of a round diamond but with a larger apparent size per carat. Since its introduction the oval cut has grown steadily in popularity and in recent years it has become the most requested fancy shape for moissanite engagement rings. At Moissanite by Design, our oval cut moissanites are precision cut to maximize the stone’s natural properties including its high refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69 which is higher than a diamond. This means a well cut oval moissanite can produce even more fire and rainbow flashes than a diamond of equivalent cut quality while also offering a larger visible size for the same carat weight.

Why Choose an Oval Cut Moissanite Engagement Ring

Oval cut moissanite engagement rings offer the best of both worlds. You get the brilliant sparkle of a round cut with the finger lengthening effect of an elongated shape. The oval cut is the safest choice for buyers who want a fancy shape that still delivers exceptional light performance. Unlike the round cut which is a perfect circle, the oval cut creates a visual line along the finger making the finger appear longer and slimmer. This is particularly flattering for buyers with shorter fingers or wider hands. The oval cut also offers a larger face up area per carat than a round cut. A one carat oval moissanite typically measures approximately eight millimeters by six millimeters while a one carat round moissanite measures about six point five millimeters in diameter. Oval engagement rings appears significantly larger because its elongated shape covers more surface area on the finger.

Oval moissanite also hides minor color tint reasonably well. Moissanite naturally has a slight color range from colorless to near colorless to faint yellow or greenish tint. The oval brilliant cut with its fifty six to fifty eight facets breaks up light effectively, though not as completely as a round brilliant. This means you can choose a near colorless G H I oval moissanite and still enjoy a white appearance in most lighting conditions. For budget conscious buyers this is a significant advantage over step cuts like emerald which show color very clearly.

The oval cut is also versatile for setting styles. It works beautifully in a solitaire with four or six prongs. It looks exceptional in a halo setting where the halo follows the elongated shape. It suits three stone settings, pave bands, and bezel settings. The oval cut has no sharp points, only curved ends, which makes it durable for daily wear and resistant to chipping.

The Optical Performance of Oval Moissanite

Moissanite has unique optical properties that make it an exceptional gemstone for engagement rings. Its refractive index ranges from 2.65 to 2.69 which is higher than diamond at 2.42. This higher refractive index means moissanite bends light more sharply, producing more fire or dispersion. The dispersion of moissanite is 0.104 compared to diamond at 0.044. This is why well cut moissanite displays intense rainbow flashes when it moves in light. The oval brilliant cut was adapted from the round brilliant and works very effectively for moissanite because the high refractive index and high dispersion are well suited to the brilliant facet pattern.

However the oval cut has a characteristic that buyers must understand: the bow tie effect. The bow tie is a dark shadow that appears across the center of the diamond in the shape of a bow tie. It is caused by light leakage through the pavilion facets when the diamond is not cut with precise proportions. All oval diamonds and oval moissanites show some degree of bow tie, but a well cut oval will have a faint or very subtle bow tie that is only visible in certain lighting conditions. A poorly cut oval will have a dark prominent bow tie that is visible from all angles and significantly detracts from the stone’s beauty. At Moissanite by Design we select only oval moissanite with minimal bow tie. When you purchase from us you can request a video of your specific stone to evaluate the bow tie before buying.

The hearts and arrows cut is also available for oval moissanite, though it is less common than in round stones. A hearts and arrows oval uses even more precise facet alignment to create a balanced pattern that reduces the bow tie and produces a cleaner more diamond like sparkle. For buyers who want maximum brilliance with a more controlled fire and minimal bow tie, we recommend the hearts and arrows oval moissanite.

Oval Moissanite vs Oval Diamond

Many buyers compare moissanite oval engagement rings to lab diamond oval engagement rings when shopping for an engagement ring. The most obvious difference is price. A one carat moissanite oval engagement rings costs a fraction of a one carat lab diamond oval engagement rings of similar color and clarity. For the same budget you can purchase a much larger moissanite or you can allocate savings to a premium setting or a higher quality metal like platinum. The second difference is durability. Moissanite scores 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond at 10. This makes moissanite highly resistant to scratching and suitable for daily wear for a lifetime.

The third difference is optical performance. As noted moissanite has higher fire and dispersion than diamond. Some buyers prefer the extra rainbow flashes while others prefer the more subtle fire of diamond. The fourth difference is that moissanite is doubly refractive while diamond is singly refractive. This means light splits into two rays when entering moissanite, creating a slight blurring or doubling of facet edges under magnification. In an oval brilliant cut this doubling is rarely visible to the naked eye but can be seen with a jeweler’s loupe. For most buyers this does not affect the beauty of the stone.

The fifth difference is the bow tie effect. Oval moissanite and oval diamond both can show a bow tie. However because moissanite has a higher refractive index, the bow tie can sometimes appear more pronounced if the stone is poorly cut. This is why buying from a trusted seller like Moissanite by Design is important. We reject oval moissanite with dark bow ties and only offer stones with faint or very subtle bow ties.

Ideal Proportions for Oval Moissanite

Not all oval moissanite is cut equally. To achieve maximum brilliance and fire with minimal bow tie, you should look for oval moissanite with specific proportions. The most important measurement for an oval cut is the length to width ratio. The ideal length to width ratio for an oval cut falls between 1.30 and 1.50. A ratio of 1.35 to 1.45 is considered the sweet spot for most buyers. A lower ratio closer to 1.20 produces a chubbier oval that looks almost round. A higher ratio above 1.60 produces a very long skinny oval that may look unbalanced on most fingers. The length to width ratio is calculated by dividing the length of the diamond by its width. For example an oval moissanite that measures ten millimeters long and seven millimeters wide has a length to width ratio of 1.42 which is excellent.

The ideal table percentage for oval moissanite is between fifty three and sixty three percent. The ideal pavilion depth is between fifty eight and sixty two percent. The girdle should be thin to medium. These proportions minimize light leakage and reduce the prominence of the bow tie. At Moissanite by Design we grade our oval moissanite using these standards. We also provide actual measurements in millimeters for each stone so you can see the length, width, and ratio before purchasing.

Setting Styles for Oval Moissanite Engagement Rings

The oval shape works beautifully in many engagement ring settings. The most popular setting for moissanite oval engagement rings is the solitaire with four prongs. A four prong solitaire places prongs at the four cardinal points: top, bottom, left, and right. This setting allows maximum light entry and shows off the oval shape clearly. A six prong solitaire offers more security but can make the oval appear slightly rounder. We recommend four prongs for oval cuts to preserve the elongated silhouette.

The halo setting is the second most popular choice for oval moissanite. A halo is a ring of smaller moissanite or diamond accents that surrounds the center stone. An oval halo follows the shape of the center stone with a rounded oval outline. A halo can make a one carat oval moissanite appear as large as a one and a half carat stone. The halo also adds extra sparkle and can hide any minor bow tie or color in the center stone. For a vintage look, consider a double halo or a halo with milgrain detailing.

The trilogy setting features a center oval moissanite flanked by two smaller side stones. The side stones can be round, pear, or baguette cut. Pear side stones pointing outward from the oval create a very elegant and elongated look. This setting symbolizes the past, present, and future. It also adds width to the ring, which can be flattering on longer fingers.

The bezel setting wraps a thin metal rim around the entire circumference of the oval moissanite. This offers maximum protection and is ideal for people who work with their hands. The bezel can be full or partial. A partial bezel leaves the top and bottom of the stone exposed to allow more light entry. The bezel setting gives a modern, minimalist appearance and also protects the pointed ends of the oval which are the most vulnerable areas.

The pave setting features small moissanite set closely together along the band. This creates a continuous line of sparkle. An oval moissanite center stone with a pave band is one of the most brilliant and elegant combinations available.

Recommended Carat Weight for Oval Moissanite

Choosing the right carat weight for a moissanite oval engagement ring depends on finger size and personal preference. Because the oval cut looks larger than its actual carat weight, a smaller carat weight is often sufficient. For a finger size of four to five, a 0.75 carat oval moissanite provides a length of approximately eight millimeters and a width of five point five millimeters which offers good coverage. For a finger size of five to six, a one carat oval measures about eight point five millimeters by six millimeters and provides a substantial look. For a finger size of six to seven, a one and a half carat oval measures about nine point five millimeters by seven millimeters and makes a bold statement. For finger sizes above seven, we recommend a two carat or larger oval moissanite to maintain balanced proportions.

Because moissanite engagement rings is less expensive than diamond, many buyers choose larger carat weights than they would with diamond. A two carat oval moissanite has a length of about ten millimeters and a width of seven point five millimeters. A three carat oval measures approximately twelve millimeters by eight millimeters and is considered a showpiece size. However larger oval moissanite may show more of the stone’s slight color tint and may exhibit a more visible bow tie if not well cut. If you choose an oval moissanite above two carats, we recommend selecting a colorless grade like D E or F and requesting a video to verify minimal bow tie.

Color and Clarity for Oval Moissanite

Oval moissanite is available in several color grades. Colorless moissanite is graded D E F and appears completely white with no tint. Near colorless is graded G H I and shows a very faint warmth that is only visible when compared side by side with a colorless stone. Faint color is graded J K and shows a slight yellow or greenish tint that is visible to the naked eye. For oval moissanite, the brilliant facet pattern masks color reasonably well but not as completely as a round brilliant. A near colorless G H I oval stone will appear white to most observers when set in white gold or platinum. If you set your oval moissanite in yellow gold or rose gold, you can choose a J or K color because the warm metal will mask any warmth in the stone.

Clarity in moissanite refers to the presence of inclusions like needles, feathers, or crystals. Most moissanite is eye clean meaning no inclusions are visible without magnification. Moissanite created in a laboratory typically has fewer inclusions than natural moissanite which is extremely rare. At Moissanite by Design, all our oval moissanite is graded as VVS or VS clarity. This means any inclusions are very very small and cannot be seen with the naked eye. You do not need to pay a premium for IF or FL clarity in moissanite because even VVS moissanite is perfectly clean to the unaided eye.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oval Moissanite Engagement Rings

Is moissanite oval engagement rings durable for daily wear?

Yes moissanite has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale making it harder than sapphire, ruby, and all other gemstones except diamond. An oval moissanite engagement ring can be worn every day for a lifetime without scratching or losing its polish. The oval shape has no sharp corners only curved ends so it is also resistant to chipping. The pointed ends of the oval are slightly more vulnerable than the sides but much less vulnerable than a marquise or pear tip.

Does moissanite oval engagement rings lose its sparkle over time?

No moissanite does not degrade or become cloudy with age. However moissanite can accumulate oil and dirt from daily wear which reduces its brilliance. Cleaning with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush restores its full sparkle. Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for moissanite but you should check that your ring setting can withstand ultrasonic cleaning.

How does oval moissanite perform in low light?

Moissanite has a high refractive index which means it continues to sparkle even in dim lighting conditions like candlelight or restaurant lighting. In very low light, moissanite may show more of its body color because there is less light to reflect. Colorless and near colorless oval moissanite perform well in all lighting conditions. The bow tie effect may become more visible in direct harsh sunlight but less visible in soft diffuse light.

What is the bow tie effect and how can I avoid it. The bow tie is a dark shadow across the center of the oval. All oval cuts show some bow tie. To minimize it, choose an oval with a length to width ratio between 1.35 and 1.45, a pavilion depth between fifty eight and sixty two percent, and a table between fifty three and sixty three percent. Rotate the stone to see if the bow tie changes from light grey to black. The best ovals have a bow tie that is light grey and does not dominate the center.

Can you tell the difference between oval moissanite and oval diamond?

To the naked eye, most people cannot tell the difference especially with a well cut hearts and arrows oval moissanite. A trained jeweler can sometimes distinguish moissanite by its double refraction or by its higher fire. Moissanite also tests as moissanite on a diamond tester that uses electrical conductivity. Standard thermal diamond testers cannot distinguish moissanite from diamond because both conduct heat similarly. You should always disclose to any jeweler that your stone is moissanite.

What is the return policy for oval moissanite engagement rings at Moissanite by Design?

All engagement rings, wedding rings, and custom jewellery pieces are made to order according to the client’s selected specifications.

Due to the bespoke nature of engagement rings, wedding rings, and custom jewellery pieces, Moissanite By Design does not accept returns or offer refunds on custom-made items.

Each item is produced according to the client’s approved design and specifications. Custom pieces cannot be refurbished for resale due to sizing, design, and personalisation factors.

We offer a limited lifetime warranty on all our moissanite against manufacturing defects. Please see our returns page for full details.

Do you offer certified oval moissanite?

Yes we provide a certificate of authenticity from a reputable gemological laboratory with every oval moissanite over one carat. The certificate confirms the stone’s carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and measurements. You can request a GIA or IGI report for an additional fee.

How should I clean my moissanite oval engagement rings?

The safest method is to soak the ring in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for ten to fifteen minutes. Then gently brush the stone and setting with a soft toothbrush paying attention to the underside of the stone where oil can accumulate and around the prongs. Rinse with warm water and dry with a soft lint free cloth. You can also use a steam cleaner or ultrasonic cleaner but check with us first to ensure your specific setting is compatible.

What is the difference between oval brilliant and oval hearts and arrows moissanite?

An oval brilliant moissanite has a standard fifty six to fifty eight facet pattern that produces bright sparkle and fire. An oval hearts and arrows moissanite is cut to even tighter tolerances so that when viewed from the pavilion you see a pattern of hearts. Hearts and arrows oval moissanite has better light return, less light leakage, and a more controlled fire with reduced bow tie. Hearts and arrows oval moissanite typically costs about twenty percent more than standard oval brilliant.

Can I purchase a loose oval moissanite to set in my own mounting?

Yes we sell loose oval moissanite in all sizes and grades. You can select your stone and we will ship it securely. We also offer setting services if you send us your mounting. Please contact our customer service team for details.

How long does shipping take for an oval moissanite engagement ring?

Custom engagement rings take four to six weeks depending on complexity. We offer free shipping within South Africa for all our custom engagement rings. International shipping is available with additional fees and longer delivery times.

Does oval moissanite come in different colors besides white?

Yes moissanite is available in several fancy colors including champagne, cognac, green, blue, and grey. Colored moissanite is created by adjusting the crystal growth process to introduce specific trace elements. A champagne oval moissanite has a warm brownish yellow tone that looks beautiful in rose gold settings. A blue oval moissanite ranges from light sky blue to deep teal and is often used as a center stone. Grey oval moissanite has a modern steely appearance that pairs well with white gold or platinum. Fancy colored oval moissanite is less common than white moissanite and may cost slightly more depending on the color saturation. At Moissanite by Design we carry a selection of fancy colored oval moissanite. Contact us for current availability.

How does oval moissanite compare to lab grown diamond?

Oval lab grown diamond and oval moissanite are different materials. Lab grown diamond is real diamond with the same chemical composition and optical properties as mined diamond. Lab grown diamond has a refractive index of 2.42 and dispersion of 0.044. Moissanite has a higher refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69 and higher dispersion of 0.104. Lab grown diamond is harder at 10 on the Mohs scale compared to moissanite at 9.25. Lab grown diamond is singly refractive while moissanite is doubly refractive. In terms of price, a one carat oval lab grown diamond costs significantly more than a one carat oval moissanite but less than a mined diamond. Moissanite remains the most affordable option. Buyers who want a diamond in every sense should choose lab grown diamond. Buyers who want maximum fire and value should choose moissanite.

Can I insure my oval moissanite engagement ring?

Yes you should insure your oval moissanite engagement ring just as you would insure a diamond engagement ring. Moissanite has value and replacing a lost or stolen ring costs money. Most jewelry insurance companies offer policies for moissanite engagement rings. The annual premium is typically one to two percent of the ring’s appraised value. You will need a professional appraisal from a certified gemologist to establish the replacement value. Moissanite by Design can provide an appraisal document for any ring we sell. Keep your receipt, certificate, and appraisal in a safe place separate from the ring itself. Update your insurance policy every two to three years to account for increases in gold and moissanite prices.

What is the best length to width ratio for an oval moissanite?

The best length to width ratio for an oval moissanite depends on your finger length and personal preference. A ratio of 1.35 to 1.40 produces a chubbier oval that looks closer to a round shape. A ratio of 1.40 to 1.45 is the most popular and balanced. A ratio of 1.45 to 1.50 produces a longer oval that creates more finger lengthening. For most buyers we recommend a ratio between 1.38 and 1.48. For very short fingers, a ratio of 1.35 to 1.40 is more flattering. For very long fingers, a ratio of 1.45 to 1.50 works well.

Why Buy Your Oval Moissanite Engagement Ring From Moissanite by Design

Moissanite by Design has been a trusted retailer of moissanite engagement rings since 2019. We carry only the highest grade moissanite from premium manufacturers. Every oval moissanite we sell is inspected by our in house gemologist before shipping. We reject any oval with a dark prominent bow tie. We offer a price match guarantee if you find the same oval moissanite quality at a lower price from a competitor. Our customer service team is available six days a week to answer your questions about oval moissanite, settings, sizing, and care. We also offer free lifetime resizing and prong tightening for all rings purchased from us.

Browse our collection of oval cut moissanite engagement rings below. Use the filters to narrow by metal type, carat weight, setting style, and price. If you do not see exactly what you want, contact us to request a quote for a custom design. We will create an oval moissanite engagement ring tailored to your exact specifications.

Explore other moissanite engagement ring shapes: Round, Pear, Princess, Marquise, Cushion, Radiant, and Emerald cut moissanite rings.