Marquise Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Marquise-cut diamond engagement rings are among the most distinctive and elegant choices for proposals. With its slender shape, it elongates the finger like no other cut and is by far thef graceful curves and pointed ends give it a more refined and sophisticated look versus its closest rival, the pear cut, and it is perfect for those seeking something unique largest-looking cut for its respective carat weight. Its royal heritage and combination o yet refined.
The Origins of Marquise Engagement Rings
Legend has it that the marquise cut was commissioned by King Louis XV of France in the 18th century, inspired by the shape of his beloved Marquise de Pompadour's lips. Whether this romantic tale is true or not, marquise engagement rings certainly embody the elegance and sophistication of the French court style. Over the past few years, it has experienced its renaissance.
Understanding the Marquise Cut Quality
As a fancy cut, the marquise cut does not generally receive a cut grade (for a more detailed explanation of cut grading and fancy cuts, click here). With this in mind, there are several key factors to consider:
Symmetry
Symmetry is paramount with marquise diamond rings. The two pointed ends should be perfectly aligned, and the curves on either side should mirror each other exactly. Any asymmetry will be immediately noticeable and can significantly impact the diamond's appeal. The belly of the diamond should be neither too wide nor too narrow, creating a pleasing proportion that enhances the stone's natural elegance.
Length-to-Width Ratio
Length-to-width ratio plays a crucial role in the marquise's appearance. The ideal ratio typically falls between 1.85 and 2.10, though personal preference can vary. A ratio closer to 1.85:1 creates a wider, more rounded appearance, while ratios approaching 2.10:1 produce a more elongated, dramatic look. Our personal preference is a ratio between 1.95 and 2.00.
The Bow-tie Effect
The bow-tie effect is commonly seen in marquise diamonds, particularly those with a wider middle. It appears as a dark shadow across the centre, resembling a bow tie. While some darkness is normal, too much can reduce the diamond's brilliance. A well-cut marquise will have minimal shadow and maximum brilliance. It's best to view your diamond in person to assess its quality, and we always check for this, whether you're using our full diamond curation process or not.
Protecting Those Precious Points
The marquise cut's pointed ends are its greatest asset and its vulnerable feature. Diamonds are the most rigid and durable gemstone; however, even diamonds are vulnerable when forming such fine points. The quality of the cut and the style of setting are crucial to protect these. A skilled cutter ensures that the points are neither too sharp nor too blunt. When set, prongs or bezels should protect these points from chipping during daily wear.
Setting Styles That Celebrate the Marquise
Perhaps more so than any other cut, the marquise requires careful consideration when designing the setting. It is a cut that lends itself well to both modern chic and vintage Art Nouveau-inspired designs. Each style offers different advantages and aesthetic appeals.
Contours
The Marquise cut is the perfect candidate for contoured settings such as Doreé and Vela. Its curves complement the flowing lines of a contour band. The setting can seamlessly follow the diamond's silhouette, creating a unified design where stone and metal appear to flow as one continuous piece. Contoured settings can incorporate the tips of the diamond into the overall structure, providing extra security. Stones in the 1.8–2.3ct range work best with these designs.
Bezel Settings with Accent Stones
It’s no secret that we love Bezel settings, period. The added security and protection provided by a full bezel is even more welcome when it comes to marquise diamond engagement rings, again due to the vulnerability of the fine points. While this setting style can look odd by itself, it is a wonderful fit when paired with a prominent split shank or accent stones. For this style, we recommend a centre stone ranging from 1.2ct to 1.6ct.
East-West Settings
These settings offer a contemporary twist, positioning the marquise horizontally rather than vertically. This modern approach creates a unique, fashion-forward appearance with a fuller and bolder look compared to the northwest orientation. The best carat size of a marquise-cut engagement ring will primarily depend on the finger size. Squatter ratio diamonds in the 1.9 range will work well, and anything under 2.2ct will be suitable for average-sized fingers in the L–O range.
The Lab Diamond Advantage
Choosing a lab-grown marquise diamond ring offers exceptional value without compromising on beauty or quality. Lab diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds, displaying the same brilliance, fire, and scintillation. This technology allows couples to select larger, higher-quality marquise diamonds within their budget, ensuring their engagement ring makes the stunning statement they desire.
Making Your Marquise Choice
A marquise-cut diamond engagement ring offers a perfect blend of elegance, uniqueness, and brilliance, making it an exceptional choice for any special occasion marker. Its elongating effect on the finger, combined with its distinctive shape and unique sparkle, creates a truly memorable piece that stands apart from traditional round diamonds.
Contact Above Ground Jewellery Today
At Above Ground Jewellery, we understand that choosing an engagement ring is one of life's most important decisions. Our expertise in lab diamonds and bespoke design ensures that your marquise-cut diamond engagement ring will be perfectly crafted to celebrate your unique love story, combining exceptional quality with timeless elegance at our Melbourne workshop. Call us to book a consultation or leave a message on our contact page, and we will be in touch swiftly.