Marquise cut diamonds are a timeless and elegant choice for engagement rings. They have been popular for centuries and they’re still in style today. If you’re considering a marquise cut diamond engagement ring, here’s what you need to know.
What You Will Learn
What is a marquise cut diamond?
The marquise diamond cut has an elongated shape with pointed ends, resembling a football or a boat. A modified brilliant cut, it has 58 facets to reflect light and sparkle. Like round diamonds, the marquise has a bright, all-over shimmer, making it very eye-catching.
Fun fact – the marquise diamond cut was first created in the 18th century for King Louis XV of France. It’s said he wanted to commission a diamond that resembled the shape of his mistress’s lips.
What’s so special about the marquise diamond?
One of the most unique features of marquise diamond cuts is their elongated shape. Their 2 pointed ends really make them stand out from other diamond shapes. And their 58 facets make them very brilliant and sparkly too.
Another benefit to marquise diamond rings? This cut can make the diamond appear larger than its carat weight would suggest. That’s because the way marquise shapes are cut from rough diamonds, they end up with a wide pavilion. This puts more of their carat weight on top, making them appear larger than another diamond shape of the same carat weight.
Are marquise cut diamonds in style?
Absolutely! The marquise is a classic shape that’s truly timeless. Vintage rings with marquise shaped diamonds wow us today and so do new and modern styles. The cut got really popular in the 1980s and then wasn’t as big for a while, but it’s recently resurfaced as a popular diamond shape.
These diamonds are also very versatile. Marquise cut diamonds look quite different depending on the ring setting. Most of the time we see rings with the diamond set longways, in line with the finger. But keep looking and you’ll also find rings with a marquise diamond set in a lateral, east-west direction. Catherine Zeta-Jones for example wears a stunning marquise cut in this type of setting. Some other celebrities with marquise cut diamond engagement rings? Victoria Beckham, Ashlee Simpson, and Portia De Rossi all rock the marquise cut.
Buying an Engagement Ring? Here are 16 Pieces of Advice
Who should wear a marquise diamond engagement ring?
Anyone who wants their diamond to look big should consider a marquise. Thanks to the way they’re cut, marquise cut diamonds tend to appear larger than their carat weight would suggest. Especially when you place one next to a round diamond.
Wish you had thinner hands or fingers? When worn in a vertical setting, the elongated shape of the marquise can make your hand and fingers appear more elongated as well. Many people appreciate this “slenderizing” effect.
Ultimately, the marquise cut diamond’s beauty is universal. Depending on the ring style and setting, this versatile diamond cut can help achieve whatever look you’re after.
5 tips for buying a marquise cut diamond engagement ring
- Make sure your marquise cut is well-proportioned. The two pointed ends should be symmetrical, and the length-to-width ratio should be between 1.75:1 to 2.25:1 for the most pleasing shape.
- Look for a high-quality cut to maximize the brilliance and sparkle of your engagement ring.
- Consider the setting carefully. A prong or bezel setting can help protect the pointed ends of the marquise diamond and prevent it from snagging on things.
- Learn about the bowtie effect. Any elongated diamond will have a slight bowtie in its sparkle pattern across the middle. A very dark and noticeable bowtie detracts from the diamond’s technically flawless appearance.
- Get specialized jewelry insurance. You can’t rely on a homeowners or renters policy alone to fully protect a diamond engagement ring. BriteCo offers affordable jewelry insurance that will give you comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.
Learn more about choosing a marquise cut diamond from the Gemological Institute of America
Where to Get Jewelry Insurance
BriteCo’s policy offers worldwide coverage for loss, theft, damage, and mysterious disappearance. We also offer safe storage discounts and monthly premium options and cover up to 125% of your item’s appraised value.
Use our convenient online tool to get a quote for your insurance plan in minutes.
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