By Gary A.
Edited by Brian M.
Published Aug 13, 2024
Edited on Oct 15, 2024
Marquise diamonds only exist because of the most passionate type of love there is. Here’s why so many choose to use them in their engagement rings.
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The romance of history; it’s a hard spell not to fall under. This is part of the reason why diamonds are so seductive in the first place – but we’d argue it’s never more palpable than when you’re looking down at an impeccable, bright Marquise diamond.
Inspired by passion and fervor, this is a shape for any hopeless romantic…
When it comes to diamond shapes, the Marquise cut is a real showstopper with some serious royal pedigree. Picture this: 18th century France, King Louis XV, and a diamond commissioned to mirror the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. Talk about romantic! The result? That elegant, elongated shape we now know and love as the Marquise cut.
This isn’t just any old diamond shape – it’s a slice of history that’s graced the fingers of nobility and celebs alike. From royal coronations to Hollywood red carpets, the Marquise has been turning heads for centuries. And why wouldn’t it? With those pointed ends and that wide middle, it’s got a silhouette that screams luxury.
But don’t go thinking it’s all stuffy and old-fashioned. The Marquise cut has sailed smoothly into modern jewelry design, proving that true style never goes out of fashion.
Here’s a little secret: Marquise cuts are masters of illusion. Thanks to that elongated shape, they often look bigger than other diamonds of the same carat weight. It’s like magic for your finger! This optical trick makes the Marquise a top pick for couples looking to get the most bang for their buck. The shape draws your eye along its length, creating a “wow” factor that’s hard to beat.
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. When you’re picking out a Marquise cut, symmetry and proportion are your best friends. You want those points perfectly aligned and the wings balanced – think of it as the diamond equivalent of a perfectly symmetrical face.
The length-to-width ratio is another biggie. Typically, you’re looking at ratios between 1.75:1 to 2.25:1. It’s all about personal preference here – some like ’em long and lean, others prefer a bit more curve. Whatever floats your boat!
Before we dive deeper into the specifics, here are some practical tips to help guide your decision-making process:
Tip 1. Protect the Points:
Tip 2. Symmetry is Key:
Tip 3. Be Mindful of the Length-to-Width Ratio:
Tip 4. Choose the Right Setting:
Tip 5. Pay Attention to Color and Clarity:
Tip 6. Watch out for the Bowtie Effect:
Now that you’ve got these practical tips, use Jeweler AI below to find the perfect engagement ring that suits your style and budget:
How do you make a Marquise shine brighter? Give it the perfect home, of course…
Prong settings are like the little black dress of the diamond world – timeless, versatile, and always in style. They typically use four to six prongs to keep your diamond snug and secure while letting in plenty of light. It’s like giving your Marquise its own personal spotlight!
The beauty of prong settings is their flexibility. Whether you’re going for a simple solitaire or something with a bit more pizzazz, prongs have got you covered. Just make sure those prongs are sturdy – you don’t want your precious Marquise making a break for it!
For those of you with an active lifestyle (or just a tendency to bump into things), bezel settings are your new best friend. Picture your Marquise surrounded by a thin metal rim – it’s like a fortress for your finger! This setting not only keeps your diamond safe but also adds a sleek, modern touch.
Bezel settings are great at highlighting the Marquise’s unique shape. It’s like putting a frame around a masterpiece – it just makes everything pop. Plus, you won’t have to worry about snagging your sweater on any pointy prongs. Win-win!
If you’re all about that extra sparkle (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), halo settings are where it’s at. Imagine your Marquise diamond surrounded by a ring of smaller diamonds – it’s like having your own personal entourage of sparkle!
Halos are great at making your center stone look even bigger (as if the Marquise needed any help in that department). Plus, you can get creative with different shapes and sizes for the halo. It’s a great way to add your own personal flair to a classic design.
Ready to really make a statement? Consider thinking outside the box with your Marquise. How about setting it east-west across the band for a modern twist? Or try a split shank setting for some added drama.
And don’t be afraid to play with color! Mixing in some colored gemstones or playing with different metal tones can take your ring from beautiful to absolutely breathtaking. After all, your ring should be as unique as you are!
If your partner is active, they may prefer more secure settings like bezels or low-profile prongs that protect the diamond while withstanding daily activities. For those who favor bold and intricate designs, settings with detailed metalwork or side stones can enhance the overall aesthetic.
Marquise cut diamonds can exhibit color more readily due to their shallow depth, so it’s important to choose a diamond with a high color grade. Aim for a near-colorless grade (G-H) to ensure the diamond appears bright and white. Clarity is also crucial, as inclusions can be more visible in this cut. Look for diamonds with clarity grades of SI1 or better to minimize visible flaws and enhance the diamond’s overall appearance.
Ah, the dreaded bowtie effect – that dark shadow across the center of the diamond that can be the bane of Marquise cuts. While it’s almost impossible to eliminate entirely (even diamonds aren’t perfect!), choosing a well-proportioned stone with excellent symmetry can help keep it in check.
Pro tip: check out your diamond in different lighting before you buy. It’s like test-driving a car – you want to make sure it looks good in all conditions!
Let’s face it – the Marquise cut is not your average diamond. It’s got history, it’s got flair, and it’s got that unmistakable edge that sets it apart from the crowd. Whether you’re drawn to its royal roots, its ability to look larger than life, or just its downright uniqueness, the Marquise is a cut that demands attention.
From classic prong settings to modern bezels, from dazzling halos to out-of-the-box designs, there’s a Marquise ring out there for every style and personality. It’s all about finding that perfect balance of cut, color, clarity, and setting that makes your heart skip a beat.
Remember, choosing an engagement ring isn’t just about following trends – it’s about finding a piece that speaks to you, that tells your unique love story. And if that story happens to involve a diamond that looks like it was plucked straight from a royal crown? Well, that’s just the cherry on top.
So go ahead, give the Marquise a chance. Who knows? You might just find yourself falling head over heels for this regal beauty. After all, if it’s good enough for French royalty, it’s certainly good enough for your finger!
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