Oval vs Pear Engagement Rings: Which Shape Is Right for You?

Oval and pear cuts are two of the most popular engagement ring shapes, and they have a lot in common. Both are elongated, both look larger than a round stone of the same carat weight, and both flatter the finger. Here is how they differ, so you can choose the one that feels like you.

The look

Oval is a stretched round: soft, symmetrical and classic. It looks elegant from every angle and never feels too trendy.

Pear, also called the teardrop, is rounded at one end and pointed at the other. It has more personality and a slightly vintage feel, and it stands out in a crowd.

Sparkle

Both are brilliant cuts, so they sparkle like a round stone. Some elongated stones show a darker "bow tie" shape across the middle when light passes through. A well-cut stone keeps this subtle. Moissanite's strong brilliance helps both shapes look lively.

How they look on the hand

• Both shapes make fingers look longer and slimmer.
• An oval looks balanced on any hand and any finger length.
• A pear is usually worn with the point toward the fingertip, which lengthens the finger even more.

Durability

An oval has no points, so it is very practical for everyday wear. A pear has one point, which is best protected by a V-shaped prong. If you choose a pear, ask us about a V-prong for the tip.

Best settings

• Oval: solitaire, hidden halo and pavé bands. A hidden halo adds sparkle from the side without making the stone look smaller.
• Pear: solitaire, halo and pavé. A curved or contour wedding band nests neatly beside the point.

Quick guide

Which should you choose?

Choose an oval if you want a timeless shape that is easy to match with any wedding band. Choose a pear if you want something a little more unique with a romantic, vintage feel.

Browse our oval engagement rings and pear engagement rings, each available in moissanite or lab-grown diamond and in 14K or 18K gold. For more shapes, see our engagement ring shapes guide.