Marquise Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

Why people choose a marquise

The marquise is long and narrow with a point at each end, a little like a boat seen from above. It has one of the largest faces of any shape for its weight. A 1 carat marquise can look as long as a much heavier round. On the hand it draws the eye along the finger and makes the fingers look slimmer. It also has a vintage feel that has come back into fashion, especially in slim gold settings.

What to check on a marquise

Symmetry

With a marquise, small differences are easy to see. Imagine a line down the middle, point to point. Both halves should mirror each other. Then draw a line across the widest part. The two points should line up with each other and with the center. A stone with one shoulder fuller than the other, or tips that drift off line, will always look a little lopsided. Ask for a report with excellent or very good symmetry, and then check it by eye.

Length to width ratio

Most marquise diamonds sit between 1.75 and 2.25. Around 2.00 is the traditional shape. A lower ratio looks wider and softer. A higher one is very slim and dramatic. There is a lot of personal taste here, so try a couple.

The bow tie

Like ovals and pears, marquise diamonds show a darker band across the middle. Some contrast is normal and gives the stone depth. Look for a bow tie that moves and lightens as you tilt the stone, rather than a fixed dark patch.

Protecting the tips

The two points are the most delicate part of a marquise. Each one should sit inside a V prong, a small metal cradle that covers the tip. Never wear a marquise held only by simple claws at the points. Six prong settings, with a V at each end and two prongs at the sides, are the most common and secure choice. Every setting we show here can be made with a marquise center, and we fit V prongs as standard.

Color and clarity

Color can gather at the points. In white gold or platinum, G or H keeps the ends bright. Yellow and rose gold are kind to warmer stones, so you can choose a lower color there and spend the difference on size. Brilliant faceting hides small inclusions, and VS2 or SI1 is often eye clean. Do check that nothing sits near a tip, where it could weaken the point.

Settings that suit a marquise

• A slim solitaire in yellow gold for the classic vintage look.
• A pavé band, which adds sparkle along the finger.
• East to west, set across the finger, for a modern twist.
• Three stone with small rounds or pears either side.

Marquise diamonds also make a striking pair in a toi et moi ring.

At your viewing

We will put a few marquise stones on the tray with different ratios. Look at each one straight on, then hold it in a setting on your finger. Check the symmetry first, the bow tie second, and then go with the one you keep reaching for.

See how the marquise compares with other shapes in our shapes guide. Send us your size and budget on the loose diamond request page, then book a viewing at 30 West 47th St, Suite 805, or call (732) 581-7932.