Once a staple of the 1980s, a marquise engagement ring wasn’t always considered the most au courante choice—until now. Thanks to its vintage appeal and elongating effect, this shape is making a major comeback, with modern brides embracing its distinctive silhouette. Most recently, Selena Gomez’s marquise-cut diamond engagement ring from Benny Blanco has put this timeless yet trend-forward style back in the spotlight.
What Is a Marquise Engagement Ring?
A marquise engagement ring features a marquise-shaped diamond center stone, an elongated oval with pointed ends, sometimes referred to as the “navette” shape, meaning “little ship” in French. Its origins trace back to the 18th century when King Louis XV of France commissioned a diamond cut that resembled the lips of his mistress, the Marchioness de Pompadour. The result was the marquise cut, which remains one of the most unique and regal diamond shapes available today.
Marquise-cut diamonds typically have 58 facets, maximizing brilliance and fire. Their elongated form not only makes them appear larger per carat than other shapes but also creates a flattering effect on the wearer’s hand, making fingers appear more slender and refined.
What Makes Marquise Engagement Rings a Popular Choice?
Marquise diamond engagement rings are rising in popularity again, and for good reason. Their combination of vintage charm, bold presence, and contemporary versatility makes them an appealing choice for modern brides. Here’s why they stand out.
Elongating Effect: The marquise cut’s long, tapered shape enhances the appearance of finger length, making it especially flattering on any hand.
Larger Look Per Carat: Due to its elongated shape, a marquise diamond has a greater surface area than many other cuts of the same carat weight, offering more visible diamond for the price.
Timeless Yet Trendy: Once associated with the 1980s, the marquise cut has returned with a fresh, modern twist, often set in sleek, minimalist bands or unique east-west orientations.
Distinctive Appeal: Unlike the more common round or oval diamonds, a marquise-cut diamond stands out with its striking shape and vintage-meets-modern aesthetic.
Versatility in Settings: The marquise cut pairs beautifully with a variety of settings, from classic solitaires to intricate halo designs.
Celebrity Endorsement: With high-profile figures like Selena Gomez sporting marquise diamond engagement rings, this shape has gained newfound admiration among trend-conscious brides.
What to Look for in a Marquise Engagement Ring
Selecting the perfect marquise cut engagement ring involves considering several factors to ensure the best combination of brilliance, symmetry, and setting. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Symmetry Matters: A well-cut marquise diamond should have perfectly aligned points and balanced proportions to ensure it sparkles evenly. Any asymmetry can affect the overall appearance and brilliance of the stone.
Avoiding the Bowtie Effect: Like oval and pear-shaped diamonds, marquise diamonds can exhibit a “bowtie effect,” a dark area running across the center. Choosing a well-cut stone minimizes this effect and enhances the overall brilliance.
Length-to-Width Ratio: The ideal marquise diamond has a length-to-width ratio between 1.75 to 2.25, depending on personal preference. A longer shape looks more dramatic, while a slightly wider marquise appears softer.
Clarity and Color Considerations: Due to its large, open table, inclusions and color variations are more noticeable in marquise-cut diamonds. A VS2 clarity or higher and G color or better are typically recommended for a balanced mix of quality and value.
Protecting the Points: The two pointed ends of a marquise diamond are vulnerable to chipping. Opting for a setting with prong protection or a bezel setting helps secure the stone and prevent damage.
Setting Styles for Marquise Engagement Rings
The right setting can enhance the beauty of a marquise diamond, showcasing its unique shape while complementing personal style. Here are some of the most popular setting styles for marquise engagement rings:
Classic Solitaire: A solitaire engagement ring is a timeless choice that highlights the marquise diamond’s shape without distraction. A six-prong setting or V-shaped prongs at the tips provide added security.
Pavé: A pavé setting for a marquise diamond engagement ring features tiny, closely set accent diamonds along the band, creating a continuous sparkle that enhances the center stone’s brilliance. The term “pavé” comes from the French word for “paved,” referring to the way the small diamonds are set closely together, resembling a paved road of shimmering light.
Halo Setting: A diamond halo engagement ring features a circle of smaller diamonds surrounding the marquise center stone, amplifying sparkle and making the diamond appear even larger. If a traditional halo isn’t for you, consider a hidden halo, where smaller diamonds encircle the center stone from underneath for more subtle shine.
East-West Setting: Instead of the traditional vertical orientation, this modern twist places the marquise diamond horizontally, offering a contemporary and unexpected aesthetic.
Vintage-Inspired Settings: Intricate details like milgrain, filigree, and engraving enhance the vintage appeal of a marquise-cut diamond, making it perfect for those who love antique-inspired jewelry.
Three-Stone Setting: Featuring two smaller side stones, the three stone engagement ring setting enhances the marquise center diamond while adding extra brilliance and dimension.
Bezel Setting: A sleek, modern option that encases the diamond in metal, providing extra protection while maintaining a stylish, contemporary look.
Split Shank: A band that splits into two as it approaches the center stone, adding sophistication and making the marquise shape stand out even more.
Celebrity Marquise Engagement Rings
Marquise engagement rings have long been a favorite among celebrities. Iconic figures like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Victoria Beckham have embraced this distinctive shape, known for its elongated silhouette and regal appeal. Most recently, Selena Gomez reinvigorated the interest in this diamond shape when she debuted her stunning marquise diamond engagement ring from Benny Blanco.
With its rich history, elongating silhouette, and modern resurgence, the marquise engagement ring has once again claimed its place as a stylish and sophisticated choice for brides. Whether set in a classic solitaire, framed by a dazzling halo, or styled with vintage details, the marquise cut remains a distinctive and graceful option for those seeking a one-of-a-kind engagement ring to represent their love story. Thanks to high-profile celebrity endorsements and an appreciation for unique, eye-catching designs, the marquise-cut diamond is proving that what’s old is new again.
