An Introduction to Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings

Are you interested in an engagement ring that is a bit more exciting than a traditional round cut? If so, you should give marquise diamond engagement rings a close look. Marquise diamond engagement rings are actually named after French nobility. A marquise is a French noblewoman, and a marquis is a French nobleman. Based on this information, it’s no surprise that marquise diamond engagement rings are exquisite.

How to Recognize Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings?

Marquise diamond engagement rings have center gemstones that are cut into curved shapes. The top and bottom parts of the arched gemstone meet at either end. Just imagine an oval, but with pointed ends instead of round. Or you can imagine a football waiting for a kick from the quarterback. A football standing on its end is similar in shape to a marquise cut diamond.

Marquise diamond engagement rings come in a variety of sizes, as there are no set proportions that must be the same for every ring. Some marquise diamond engagement rings are very slim, with the sides close together. But others may be wider across the middle and pinched at the top and bottom, which is the most desired look.

When marquise diamond engagement rings are too thin, the center appears darker than the rest of the diamond. This flaw is described as a bow tie effect because the dark center gives the marquise cut diamond the appearance of a formal bow tie.

Ideally, marquise diamond engagement rings should have a length to width ratio twice the length of the gemstone’s width. The cut shouldn’t be too shallow as that can also produce a bow tie effect.

How do Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings Fit the Finger?

Marquise diamond engagement rings are normally orientated vertically on the finger. However, it’s not uncommon to see them crosswise (horizontally). A vertical orientation tends to make the finger appear slender, while a horizontal placement makes the finger look wider.

What about Settings?

Marquise diamond engagement rings are set using various styles, and the prong setting is one of them. Marquise diamond engagement rings usually have only one stone, so the prong setting functions the same as with any other solitaire ring.

Prong settings utilize four or six hooks that hold the diamond in place slightly suspended above the band. A downside to the prong setting is that marquise diamond engagement rings aren’t that wide, so the prong could detract from the appearance. However, if you decide to use side gemstones, the prong may work well.

The Bezel setting is a more popular choice for marquise diamond engagement rings. With this setting, a metal rim surrounds the diamond and "locks" it into place. The rim extends above the diamond, but not enough to detract from its appearance. The Bezel setting is versatile, sturdy, and attractive. Before deciding on a setting, get professional advice from a jeweler. They will be able to guide you in which setting is best for your situation.