Marquise diamonds have always had a way of standing out.
With their elongated silhouette, curved sides, and signature pointed ends, marquise diamonds offer plenty of sparkle while feeling a little less expected than traditional round or oval shapes. They also create beautiful finger coverage, making them an especially appealing option for anyone looking for a diamond with noticeable presence.
From their centuries-old history to the details that make one marquise diamond different from another, here is everything to know before choosing this distinctive shape.
What Is a Marquise Diamond?
A marquise diamond is an elongated diamond shape featuring gently curved sides that taper into a point at either end.
Most marquise diamonds are cut with brilliant-style faceting, giving them plenty of sparkle and light return. Their longer shape allows more of the diamond's weight to be distributed across the surface rather than hidden beneath the setting, which is one reason marquise diamonds can appear larger for their carat weight.
Set vertically on the finger, the elongated silhouette also draws the eye lengthwise and creates a flattering, lengthening effect.
14K Yellow Gold Lab Grown 1.50ctw Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring
The History Behind the Marquise Diamond
The marquise shape comes with a story nearly as distinctive as the diamond itself.
Legend traces its beginnings back to 18th-century France, when King Louis XV is said to have commissioned a diamond shape inspired by the lips of Madame de Pompadour.
The word marquise was also a French noble title, which helped give the shape its longstanding association with royalty and romance.
After becoming especially popular during the 1970s and 1980s, marquise diamonds have made their way back into the spotlight—this time appearing in everything from classic solitaires to contemporary east-west settings.
Tacori 14K Yellow Gold Marquise Petal Diamond Engagement Ring
Why Choose a Marquise Diamond?
One of the biggest advantages of a marquise diamond is the amount of visual presence it can create.
Because the diamond stretches farther across the finger, a marquise can appear larger face-up than many other shapes with a similar carat weight. In other words, you may be able to achieve the look of a larger center stone without necessarily increasing the carat weight.
The pointed ends and elongated proportions also make marquise diamonds especially flattering on the hand.
And while every diamond is priced individually according to its quality, marquise diamonds can sometimes offer additional value compared with similarly graded round brilliant diamonds.
For anyone wanting a shape that feels classic but still a little unexpected, the marquise checks plenty of boxes.
14K Yellow Gold Lab Grown 2.38CTW Marquise Halo Engagement Ring
Marquise Diamonds Aren’t Just for Center Stones
Think marquise diamonds only belong in the center of an engagement ring? Think again.
Their elongated shape makes them one of the most versatile diamond shapes to design with. As a center stone, a marquise creates plenty of presence and finger coverage and can be set vertically for a more traditional look or east-west for something more modern.
Marquise diamonds also work beautifully as side stones, where their pointed shape can help frame a center diamond and add width and dimension to the overall design.
Beyond center and side stones, the shape is often used to create more intricate details. Marquise diamonds can resemble petals in floral-inspired designs or be lined up side by side to create eye-catching eternity or infinity-style wedding bands.
Whether used as the focal point or as part of a larger design, the marquise shape offers plenty of room for creativity while still feeling timeless.
14K Yellow Gold Lab grown Marquise & Round Diamond Band
What to Look for When Shopping for a Marquise Diamond
Once you know you love the shape, the next step is finding the marquise diamond that feels right for you.
No two marquise diamonds look exactly the same. Small differences in proportion, symmetry, and cut can completely change the way the stone appears on the hand, so there are a few details worth paying attention to when comparing options.
Length-to-Width Ratio
A marquise diamond's length-to-width ratio determines whether it appears wider and fuller or longer and more slender.
Lower ratios create a broader silhouette, while higher ratios give the diamond a more elongated look. Ratios between 1.75 and 2.25 are common, but there is no single “perfect” proportion—the best shape is ultimately the one you prefer on your hand.
Bow Tie Effect
Like oval and pear-shaped diamonds, marquise diamonds can show a darker area across the center known as a bow tie.
A slight bow tie is common and not necessarily a concern. What matters is that it does not appear so dark or prominent that it distracts from the diamond's overall sparkle.
This is one reason seeing a diamond in person can be especially helpful when choosing an elongated shape.
Symmetry
Symmetry plays an important role in the overall beauty of a marquise diamond.
The two points should align evenly, and the curved sides should appear balanced from one end to the other. Because marquise diamonds do not receive an overall GIA cut grade, looking at symmetry, polish, proportions, and the stone itself is particularly important.
Color and Clarity
Marquise diamonds follow the same color and clarity grading systems as other diamond shapes, but their pointed ends can sometimes make certain characteristics more noticeable.
Color may appear slightly stronger near the tips, while inclusions located close to the points are worth paying particular attention to, since these are naturally the most delicate areas of the diamond.
Choosing the Right Setting
The pointed ends are one of the marquise diamond's defining features, making the right setting especially important for added protection.
V-prongs are commonly used to protect the tips, while bezel settings surround more of the diamond for a sleek, secure finish. Halos can also add both protection and extra sparkle.
The right setting should protect the diamond while still allowing its distinctive shape to take center stage.
14K Yellow Gold Lab Grown 3.18ctw Marquise Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
Is a Marquise Diamond Right for You?
The best diamond shape will always come down to personal preference.
Marquise diamonds are perfect for someone who wants plenty of sparkle and finger coverage but prefers a silhouette that feels more distinctive than the traditional round.
They can lean vintage or modern, understated or dramatic, depending entirely on the proportions and setting you choose.
And because even small changes in length, width, and setting can completely transform the finished ring, this is one diamond shape we especially recommend seeing on your hand.
It is also a good idea to have your ring professionally inspected periodically so your jeweler can make sure the prongs—particularly those protecting the tips—remain secure.
Visit Polly's Fine Jewelry in Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, or Summerville to compare marquise diamonds, explore different settings, and find the combination that feels right for you.
Original Source: Gabriel & Co., What Is a Marquise Diamond? Shape & Meaning Explained
Written with the help of AI.
