Marquise Engagement Ring - Ultimate Buying Guide 2023

Looking for a diamond engagement ring with an unconventional appeal? Choose a band topped with a marquise-cut diamond for a look that’s truly edgy, literally and figuratively.

Marquise Diamond: Characteristics, Symbolism, and Personality

A marquise diamond commands attention, and that’s hardly surprising. The diamond shape’s name has a noble origin and a royal history. The term “marquise” comes from the Old French marchis, which is a title of nobility.

The cut allegedly originated from the French Royal Court of King Louis XV. The King commissioned a royal jeweler to create a diamond in a shape that resembles the lips of his official mistress, Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson, known as the Marchioness Madame de Pompadour.

Over time, diamond cutters have perfected a marquise-cut diamond's shape and facet plan, resulting in the elliptical shape with pointed ends and 56 to 58 facets that people love today.

What is a marquise diamond?

A marquise diamond is an elongated diamond with pointed ends and curved sides. The cut features 56 facets that handle light beautifully, with many diamond cutters saying it shines as perfectly as a round brilliant-cut diamond.

What is so special about marquise-cut diamonds?

A finely cut marquise diamond allows excellent light reflection, translating to plenty of sparkles to dazzle the eyes. Expect remarkable elegance from a well-cut marquise diamond.

This diamond shape likewise offers an impressive look depending on how it is set. It can be the glamorous central gem on a three-stone ring with tapered baguette accent diamonds on an east-west setting. A marquise engagement ring can look romantic on a vintage-style platinum band with micropave side stones and milgrain details. It can look regal and modern, too, when flush-set on a wide knife-edge gold band for men.

A marquise-cut diamond's long and narrow shape also makes it flattering on any finger.

Marquise Diamond – Who Is It For?

They say you are what you wear; this also applies to your choice of diamonds. Many believe that the diamond cut one prefers reveals something about her personality. Those who appreciate the extraordinary character of a marquise cut are seen to be bold and unafraid in their fashion choices. Marquise diamonds are for people who value individuality and aren’t afraid to march to their own beat and think outside the box.

A marquise diamond engagement ring will appeal to daring women with strong personalities who are unafraid to be themselves.

What You Must Know Before Buying a Marquise Diamond

You can find marquise diamonds in varying length-to-width ratios. Some can be very narrow or too elongated and others can be slightly wider or broader. Marquise diamonds typically have a length-to-width ratio between 1.75 to 2.15.

The marquise cut is all about symmetry and proportion and balance is very important for this cut. One must assess the stone’s symmetry before making a purchase. Take a closer look at the diamond and make sure you avoid poorly cut ones with a darkened center, unaligned or undefined points, or irregular angles.

A marquise-cut diamond can be laid out horizontally (East-West) or vertically (North-South). Traditionally, this elongated diamond is set vertically on a ring for that long and graceful look on the finger. Setting a marquise diamond horizontally gives a modern twist to the classic sophistication of this diamond shape.

What is the best metal for a marquise diamond engagement ring?

Fine diamond jewelry is fashioned from different materials and the most popular ones are platinum, gold, and sterling silver. There is no one specific metal that is perfect for a specific cut of diamond. Platinum, yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and sterling silver all have characteristics that make them suitable for one’s fashion style, lifestyle, and budget.

What is the best setting for a marquise diamond?

From a practical standpoint, the best setting for a marquise-cut diamond is the bezel setting. A bezel surrounds the valuable gem from all sides providing maximum protection.

If you want to highlight the edgy profile of a marquise diamond, go for the solitaire setting. Six prongs are usually necessary to hold the marquise diamond firmly in place. With a solitaire setting, nothing will distract the eye from appreciating the elongated silhouette of a marquise diamond.

Vintage-inspired settings are also a popular choice for marquise diamonds. The stone’s pointy yet curvy shape complements vintage-styled rings' delicate and ornate details.

The halo setting for marquise diamonds is also continually gaining popularity. A halo features smaller diamonds that wrap the outline or frame the marquise stone to highlight its unique shape and make it appear more prominent and sparkly.

Are marquise diamonds expensive?

The marquise cut belongs to the fancy-cut shapes of diamonds. This makes them about 25% less expensive than the sought-after round-cut.

Are marquise diamonds timeless?

The marquise cut has been around for centuries so it is, without a doubt, a timeless choice. It has a non-traditional style and that graceful elegance that lasts.

Storing and Caring for Marquise Engagement Rings

A bit more care is necessary for marquise diamond engagement rings for women. The two points of this diamond cut are prone to chipping and can snag on clothing. A marquise diamond isn’t the best choice for someone who leads a particularly active lifestyle, has a busy occupation, or regularly works with their hands.

Professional cleaning is highly recommended for marquise engagement rings. If you prefer DIY cleaning at home, you can use a water and mild dish soap solution to soak the ring. Use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt gently. Rinse off the ring under clean running water (don’t forget to use a strainer or plug the drain). Dry the ring using a hair dryer or a lint-free cloth.

When you’re not wearing the ring, it’s best to place your precious jewel in a fabric-lined jewelry case. It can be a small cloth pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box with partitions or dividers. Remember to store your diamond ring in its individual storage space or section so it will not brush up or rub against other jewelry pieces.