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Oval engagement rings at Segal, and why Gemma is the one to start with

Ovals are the most flattering shape on most hands and look larger than a round of the same weight. At Segal, the Gemma family is where we'd start.

By The Loupe & Band editors. Updated . Our picks come from Segal's published specs, prices and policies. How we choose

Quick comparison
RingOur takeSale price
Gemma No. 3The easy yes for an ovalVariesView at Segal
Gemma No. 37Same shape, completely different moodVariesView at Segal

Why choose an oval

An oval is a stretched round brilliant. It keeps most of the round's sparkle but spreads the weight over a longer outline, so a one-carat oval looks noticeably larger than a one-carat round. On the hand, the length also makes fingers look longer and slimmer.

The main thing to watch is the bow-tie: a shadow across the middle of the stone. You can't judge it from a spec sheet, only from a photo or video of the real stone, so ask Segal for one before you order.

Gemma in a sentence

Gemma is Segal's oval hidden-halo design: a thin pavé band, the oval centre held in prongs, and a row of small diamonds hidden underneath. It comes in white, black and coloured stones. We list two below; the full oval range is linked after them.

1. The easy yes for an oval

Hidden Halo Oval Diamond Engagement Ring – Gemma No. 3

A slim pavé band, an oval centre and a ring of small diamonds tucked under the stone. From above it reads as a clean solitaire; from the side it catches light where most rings show bare metal.

Shape
Oval
Centre stone
Diamond
Metal shown
Yellow gold
Setting
Hidden halo

Why we like it

  • Looks bigger on the hand than its carat weight thanks to the elongated oval
  • Hidden halo adds sparkle without changing the silhouette
  • Thin band sits flush with most wedding bands

Worth knowing

  • Pavé bands need occasional checks for loose stones
  • Ovals can show a "bow-tie" shadow; ask Segal about the specific stone

Best for: Someone who wants a classic look with one quiet surprise.

See it at Segal Jewelry

Price depends on stone and metal; see current options on Segal's site.

2. Same shape, completely different mood

Hidden Halo Oval Black Diamond Engagement Ring – Gemma No. 37

The Gemma setting with a black diamond centre. The white accent stones around and under it make the dark oval look deliberate rather than gothic.

Shape
Oval
Centre stone
Black diamond
Metal shown
White gold
Setting
Hidden halo

Why we like it

  • Strong contrast that photographs well
  • Black diamonds usually cost far less per carat than white
  • Classic setting keeps it wearable every day

Worth knowing

  • Black diamonds don't sparkle like white ones; the appeal is lustre and contrast
  • Many black diamonds are colour-treated, so ask what you are getting

Best for: Someone who wears a lot of black and silver and dislikes anything too sweet.

See it at Segal Jewelry

Price depends on stone and metal; see current options on Segal's site.

Browse the full range at Segal

Questions people ask

What is the bow-tie effect?

A darker band across the middle of some oval stones, caused by how light leaks through the cut. Almost every oval has a little; a strong one is distracting. Ask for photos or video of the actual stone.

What length-to-width ratio should I look for?

Around 1.35 to 1.5 is the classic oval. Lower looks rounder, higher looks longer and slimmer on the finger. It is personal taste.

Is an oval more expensive than a round?

Usually less per carat for natural diamonds, because more of the rough crystal is kept when cutting. And it looks bigger, so you get more visual size for the money.