You’ve got your cushion-cut, pear-shaped, round, oval and princess. But what about the lesser-known (and every bit as beautiful) marquise-cut diamond? This timeless shape not only has a distinct royal history, it’s a favorite of iconic celebrities like Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Victoria Beckham.
Characterized by its narrow shape, marquise stones can offer symmetry, creating an elegant, more slender silhouette. Here are a few facts about marquise diamond history and some of our favorite styles and settings.
history of the marquise-cut diamond
In the 1700s, Louis XV, king of France, also fittingly deemed “Louis the Beloved,” commissioned a jeweler to create a diamond cut resembling the delicate lips of his mistress. He elevated his beloved with a noble “Marquise” title — hence the name of the diamond cut with its 58 sparkling facets. Sordid details aside, however, this slim-profiled stone offers a sophisticated, elongated dazzle on the finger. Even smaller-carat marquise diamonds have the appearance of larger stones, thanks to the slender cut.
when were marquise diamonds popular?
While marquise diamonds were a favorite in the 1700s, they gained further popularity in the 1960s and throughout the ’70s and ’80s. The slim-profile stone in a pared-down marquise ring setting made for the perfect engagement ring.
Wondering why marquise diamonds were not popular for periods of time? Shapes and styles come and go, but timeless pieces show up again and again. And like those vintage records your mom and dad played, marquise diamonds have recently experienced a resurgence as a result of their enduring appeal.
our favorite marquise diamond ring styles
Here are five of our favorite marquise diamond ring styles:
- Nearly 3 carats of marquise moissanite stones shimmer against the white-gold setting in this fit-for-a-queen ring.
- The unique setting elevates this marquise-cut ring, with its refined vintage appeal.
- Marquise-cut rubies, yellow gold and diamond accents bloom with all the sophistication of flowers in springtime.
- Clusters of marquise diamonds elevate and enhance any engagement ring by creating an exquisite frame.
- Natural or zirconia gemstones punctuate the setting of a custom birthstone ring — a perfect gift for a mother or grandmother.
marquise ring settings and diamond cuts from Helzberg
When you purchase marquise rings at Helzberg Diamonds, you can be sure your good taste will never go out of style. Browse our marquise engagement ring styles online, create your own custom symbol of love a la King Louis, or visit a Helzberg Diamonds location to see our selection of marquise stones dazzle in person.
