Marquise Diamonds: The Trending Cut You Need to Know About
More and more people nowadays are stepping away from traditional engagement ring styles, and all eyes are turning to marquise diamonds. This distinctive, elongated cut has been popping up everywhere lately, from celebrity proposals to viral social media posts, and it’s impossible to ignore its charm. Its unique shape and brilliant sparkle seem to finally make it the "it" choice for trendsetters and romantics.
But what’s driving this newfound love for a cut that dates back centuries? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the marquise diamonds the star of the engagement ring world right now.
What Is a Marquise Diamond?
Before we dive into why the marquise diamond is having such a moment, let’s take a moment to understand what the marquise cut is and what makes it stand out from the others.
The marquise diamond cut is also called the “navette cut,” and that means “little ship” in French, thanks to its boat-like shape. It’s an elegant, elongated shape with pointed ends that are designed to maximize sparkle and size.
The marquise cut has 58 sparkling facets, designed in a way that mirrors the brilliance of a round-cut diamond. Its unique silhouette not only catches the light beautifully but is also cut in such a way that it creates the illusion of a larger size compared to other cuts of the same carat weight.
The Origin of the Marquise Cut
But there’s more to this unique cut than this distinctive shape and eyeful sparkle. The story behind its creation also sets this cut apart because it draws inspiration from love itself. Commissioned by King Louis XV of France in the 18th century, the marquise shape was designed to mimic the curve of his mistress’s lips.
The name “marquise” actually comes from a hereditary rank which is above a count but below a duke. Back in the day, courtiers would wear marquise cut diamonds to show off their social status. So, the shape carries meaning, and that, combined with its beauty, makes it all the more captivating.
Why Are Marquise Diamonds Popular and Trending Now?
So, why is the marquise diamond suddenly everywhere? There’s no denying that celebrities are a big part of the trend. In the past few weeks, Selena Gomez’s recent proposal had everyone talking, but there was something else that stole the spotlight: her stunning marquise diamond engagement ring. A short while after, everyone’s asking about the cut, and that curiosity turns into a full-blown trend, making marquise diamonds the talk of the town. Just like Selena Gomez’s engagement ring, other celebrities like Victoria Beckham have also embraced less traditional cuts like marquise and pear, and set the tone for what’s in fashion.
Social media has also played a huge role in spreading the marquise love. Instagram and Pinterest are overflowing with photos of stunning marquise settings in all kinds of rings, which gives people tons of inspiration.
But it’s not just engagement rings that are getting the marquise treatment. You’ll also spot this elegant shape in earrings, necklaces and cocktail rings, especially on the red carpet. This proves that the cut works beautifully in all types of jewelry and that it’s quickly becoming a favorite of trendsetters.
What Sets the Marquise Apart: A Look at Its Unique Qualities
What makes this cut so special and trendy lately is not just about its shape though, it’s also about the impact it has when you see it. Let’s take a closer look at what this dramatic marquise shape has to offer.
- Visual Drama: Its bold, elongated design with pointed ends gives the diamond a sleek, dramatic appearance along with a flashy sparkle. It’s the kind of shape that immediately draws the eye and creates a sense of movement and flow.
- Illusion of Size: The marquise cut appears larger compared to other cuts of the same carat weight due to its shape. It’s therefore a great way to get a bigger-looking diamond with a larger, more dramatic look for a more affordable price. It makes the finger look slimmer and longer, too.
- Versatility: One of the best things about the marquise cut is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire, vintage-inspired setting, a halo for extra shine or a more contemporary east-west orientation, the marquise shape works beautifully in all these designs. It also pairs perfectly with different metals and gemstones. This means whether you’re looking for a marquise moissanite ring or a bold emerald one, this cut offers you endless ways to customize it to your personal style.
- Personal Touch: Its distinctive silhouette makes it a great choice for those who want their engagement ring to feel personal and special. It feels like an unconventional yet elegant choice and surely offers a different aesthetic than the more popular diamond shapes like round or oval cuts. It can therefore be symbolic of individuality and a desire to stand out from the crowd.
How to Choose the Perfect Marquise Diamond
If you’ve decided that the marquise diamond is the perfect fit for your style, here are some tips to guide you in making the best choice for you.
Clarity & Cut
When choosing a marquise diamond, symmetry is key. Because of its elongated shape, any imbalance can be more noticeable. Look for a well-cut diamond with symmetrical points, as this will make sure the stone shines and sparkles just right. Also, consider the clarity because imperfections can be more noticeable, especially in the sharp points of the marquise.
The Setting
The setting refers to how the diamond is mounted or held in place on the ring. For your marquise, we recommend a setting that offers extra protection like a bezel or prong setting that covers the edges. This is because the pointed tips of the marquise diamond can be a little vulnerable to damage.
Pairing with Wedding Bands
When it comes to pairing a marquise diamond with a wedding band, there are a few options to consider. A simple band with a sleek design can complement the boldness of the marquise cut by letting the stone take the spotlight. If you're looking for something more intricate, you could opt for a contoured band that hugs the shape of the marquise, or even stack a few bands for a layered, shiny look.
Final Thoughts
From its royal origin to its red-carpet revival, the marquise diamond proves it’s here to stay. We can expect to see even more of this stunning cut, not just in engagement rings but in earrings, necklaces and cocktail rings as well. So, if you’re thinking of popping the question soon, now’s the perfect time to do it with a stunning marquise diamond or a marquise moissanite ring. It’s a timeless trend we believe is worth embracing.