Marquise Diamond Education
history
The marquise shaped diamond was crafted in the 18th century when King Louis had a jeweler create a diamond shape based on the lips of his mistress, Jean Antoinette Poisson - also known as the Marquise de Pompadour. It has continued to be refined over the centuries into the modern 58-facted marquise shape we recognize today.
The term "marquise" comes from the rank in court above the count. Courtiers wore marquise cut diamonds indicating their higher rank leading to the cut being referred to as marquise.
The marquise shape rose in popularity in the 1970s and this elegant shape has made a resurgence in popularity recently.
Qualities to look for
Due to their narrow shape, marquise cuts have an area in the center of the gem that resembles a bow tie. When the stone is cut to the correct dimensions, the bowtie effect adds to the style of the diamond rather than causing distracting shadows. Proportions and balance are also important to consider for the style you want. Shorter marquise typically have less of a bowtie effect than longer marquise cut stones.
how to wear
A marquise stone can be used to visually lengthen the appearance of the finger since it is elongated. A fun alternative is to set the marquise stone east-west (horizontally) giving the shape a different look and creating a different aesthetic overall.
Pictured: Simple Band, Marina Band, Finley Engagement Ring, Classic Lab Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Pictured: Ida Necklace, Twisted Hoops Earrings, Verity Engagement Ring paired with Mar Band
band pairings
Many engagement rings look stunning with negative space between the ring and the wedding band! But if you prefer the wedding band to sit flush with engagement ring, you will need to consider the height of the head holding the stone. Some are set on top of the shank and allow a straight band to sit flush. Other styles have a lower head and only a band made to contour around the stone or with a gap will be able to sit flush.
If you know that you will want to pair the engagement ring with a straight band, make sure to choose one with a head that will allow this. We are happy to help customize styles to have higher heads if you are interested! Additionally, since marquise stones are longer, they usually cover part of any paired bands. Keep this in mind when choosing a band style.
When band shopping for a style that sits flush after you already have your engagement ring, we can custom make a band that contours your ring exactly! Please email us at hello@oliveavejewelry.com for any custom inquiries.
marquise bands
We also have a variety of bands that feature marquise stones. This can complement a marquise center stone but also contrast beautifully with other stone shapes especially round, princess, or square cushion cuts.
Celebrities with marquise rings
Victoria Beckham
Catherine Zeta Jones
Ashley Simpson
Portia de Rossi
Jennifer Lopez
