Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings

About the Marquise Shape

The distinctive marquise shape is believed to have originated in 18th century France under the rule of King Louis XIV, when he supposedly commissioned a new shape to mimic his mistress’s sultry smile. The resulting narrow oval with tapered, pointed ends was named for that mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. Today, the marquise diamond shape is a classic option for couples interested in a stunning stone but who don’t want the traditional – and sometimes predictable – round brilliant shape. Because of their elongated shape, marquise diamonds may also be called boat-shapes or navette diamonds.

Stone Size

A marquise stone has a peculiar optical illusion effect. Because the stone’s mass is concentrated in its table (top surface facet), the shape often presents the appearance of a larger stone than is actually present. This is an attractive characteristic for couples on a budget who want to maximize the appearance of their purchase. Similarly, because marquise stones are often accented with additional diamonds in channels or prongs along the band, they often appear to be larger than their true carat weight.

Stone Proportions and the Bow Tie Effect

Marquise proportions vary widely.

The ideal proportion for a marquise stone is a 2-to-1 length-to-width ratio. This means that the most perfect example of a marquise (according to gemologists and jewelers) will be twice as long as it is wide. There is much variability in that ratio, however, and couples can select from a range of slightly different proportioned stones to find the one that best matches their preferences and design ideas. The experts at Blue Nile recommend a marquise proportion between 1.75-to1 and 2.25-to-1.

As the proportion of the stone changes, so does the “bow tie” effect within its depths. Because the marquise is a fancy cut rather than following the crystal’s natural patterns, the intersecting curves generate a deep shadow shaped like a bow tie across the center of the stone. Some individuals see this as a flaw, while others consider it a part of the beauty and distinction of the cut. The bow tie is actually evidence of light leaking out of the stone rather than being fully reflected within it, and a large bow tie detracts from the stone’s sparkle. In most properly cut stones, the bow tie effect is minimal, but couples should always investigate the stone thoroughly to ascertain the precision of its cut.

Who Chooses Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings?

Marquise stones are the perfect choice for many couples, including…

• Brides-to-be with long, slender fingers. The marquise shape accentuates the fingers without obscuring them.
• Couples on a budget. Marquise rings are often more affordable than round counterparts because they can be cut around flaws more easily and the carat size may not be as large for a similar visual appearance.
• Couples interested in bridal set engagement rings. The tapered shape of a marquise is perfectly suited to additional ring enhancers and accent stones.
• Couples interested in a classic shape with an elegant, sophisticated twist. Round stones are the most popular, but for many couples, that popularity is too predictable.

Popular Ring Styles

Heavily accented marquise ring.

The most popular engagement ring design using marquise stones is a bridal set or accented ring. The tapered stones pair particularly well with oval, round, and pear-shaped accents in offset bands where the setting is uneven on each side of the center stone for additional visual appeal. Solitaires can also be found, however, and many jewelers offer designer styles utilizing the bold and dramatic marquise shape.

The best setting for marquise diamond engagement rings is the classic tiffany or prong setting. Four prongs – two per side – secure the long body of the gem, while two additional prongs cover the tips to protect against chipping or fracturing. The vast majority of marquise rings are set parallel to the finger, though antique and vintage designs with the stone placed parallel to the band can also be found.

Investigating Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings

When investigating individual rings, a couple needs to examine certain characteristics of a marquise stone to be sure they are purchasing a quality piece of jewelry.

• The prongs should both hold the gem secure and protect the tips of the stone.
• The symmetry of the cut should be even, with both curved sides matching and the points aligned with the stone’s center.
• The bow tie should not be especially pronounced.
• The stone’s color and clarity should be high – the elongated shape can accentuate minor tints or flaws more than in compact shapes.
• The stone should be set properly on the band, not unintentionally offset or crooked.

As with any jewelry purchase, it is prudent to ask about a diamond’s certificate as well as any dealer warranties, guarantees, and other applicable policies before purchasing an engagement ring.

With slim, delicate elegance accentuated by sharp distinctive tips, marquise diamond engagement rings are a popular style for both traditional and modern designs. By knowing the particular characteristics of this fancy shape and how to inspect a quality ring, couples can easily choose an elegant marquise to symbolize the elegance and romance of their union.