A marquise engagement ring is one of the most flattering choices you can make. The long, boat-like shape with two pointed ends makes the finger look slimmer. It also looks bigger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.
This guide covers the marquise cut, sizes, settings and what to check before you buy.
What is a marquise cut diamond?
The marquise cut is a long, oval-like shape with a sharp point at each end. Most marquise diamonds have 56 to 58 facets, so they sparkle like a round brilliant.
The story says the shape was made for King Louis XV of France, inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour. Today it is popular again with brides who want a vintage feel.
Why choose a marquise engagement ring?
It looks bigger. A marquise has a large top surface for its weight. A 1 CT marquise looks larger than a 1 CT round.
It flatters the hand. The long shape draws the eye along the finger.
It is unique. Fewer brides choose it, so your ring stands out.
It suits many styles. It works in a simple solitaire, a vintage cluster or a nature inspired design.
Marquise diamond sizes in MM
These are the sizes we use for our lab grown marquise diamonds. Real stones can vary a little.
1.00 CT: about 10.50 × 5.35 MM
1.50 CT: about 11.94 × 5.83 MM
2.00 CT: about 13.10 × 6.60 MM
2.50 CT: about 13.90 × 7.02 MM
3.00 CT: about 14.30 × 6.95 MM
4.00 CT: about 16.50 × 8.25 MM
5.00 CT: about 17.70 × 8.85 MM
Most people like a length-to-width ratio between about 1.75 and 2.25. A lower ratio looks fuller. A higher ratio looks long and slim.
The bow-tie effect
Many marquise diamonds show a dark band across the middle, shaped like a bow tie. A small bow tie is normal and adds contrast. A large, very dark one makes the stone look dull.
Always ask for a video of the actual diamond. Look at it from the top and move it in the light.
Best settings for a marquise
The two points are the weakest part of the stone. A good setting protects them.
V-prongs or claw tips on each point hold and guard the ends.
Six prongs give extra security and a balanced look.
Bezel settings cover the edge fully. They are great for active hands.
Cluster or side stones, like kite or round diamonds, make the ring look wider and more vintage.
Lab grown or natural?
A lab grown diamond is a real diamond. It has the same chemical makeup, hardness and sparkle as a mined diamond. The difference is the origin and the price.
With a lab grown diamond, you can choose a larger marquise or a higher color and clarity for the same budget. Ask for an IGI certificate. It confirms the carat, color and clarity of your stone.
For a white look, many buyers choose E–F color and VS clarity.
Which metal looks best?
Yellow gold gives a warm, vintage feel and makes a white diamond look bright.
White gold or platinum looks modern and clean.
Rose gold feels soft and romantic.
Caring for your marquise ring
Take the ring off for gym, gardening or heavy work. Clean it with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush. Have the prongs checked once a year, especially the tips.
Shop marquise engagement rings
Every Beniyaz ring is made to order in solid gold, platinum or 925 silver, with an IGI certified lab grown diamond.
Marquise ring with kite side stones: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4600923918
Vintage marquise engagement ring: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4597305259
Nature inspired marquise ring: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4599993686
3 CT marquise lab grown diamond ring: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4562982408
See every design in the Beniyaz Lab Grown Etsy shop (https://www.etsy.com/shop/BeniyazLabgrown), or read our lab grown diamond buying guide (https://beniyazjewelry.com/blog/lab-grown-diamonds-buying-guide). Have a question about sizes or a custom design? Message us on Etsy and we will help you choose.