Imagine slipping on a marquise-shaped gemstone that dances with the light ~ each facet sparkling like it’s sharing a little secret. The marquise cut isn’t just a gem shape, it’s an experience ~ a graceful blend of elegance, history, and playful charm that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern. As you move, the stone winks and shimmers, drawing admiring glances and whispering tales of its romantic and royal origins. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or enjoying a quiet moment, your marquise piece isn’t just jewelry ~ it’s your sparkling companion. Ready to fall head over heels for this enchanting shape? Let’s dive into the magic of the marquise diamond and discover why it might just be your perfect match!

 

 

A Shape with a Wink,
a Smile, and a Sparkle

Marquise Magic: Big Sparkle, Friendly Budget

Here’s a little secret: the marquise shape is the ultimate illusionist! With its elongated silhouette and pointed ends, it looks larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. More sparkle, more brilliance—without stretching your budget. Who wouldn’t want this?

This sleek shape isn’t just about size—it’s about stealing the spotlight. The marquise proudly flaunts its brilliance, dazzling with a bold sparkle that’s sure to turn heads. Dreaming big and bold? The marquise is your jewelry fairy godmother, ready to grant your wish.

But it’s not just about size—it’s about making a statement. Those pointed ends are the exclamation points in the gemstone world, adding playful drama. The marquise’s unique shape naturally draws the eye, creating a mesmerizing sparkle that feels like a wink and a smile. If elegant drama is what you seek, the marquise is ready to dazzle in any setting.

Romancing the Marquise: The Origin Story

Now, let’s take a romantic detour to the mid-18th century, where the marquise shape made its glamorous debut. Legend has it that King Louis XV, enchanted by the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, commissioned a diamond cut to mirror the curve of her lips. The result? A gemstone that captures the essence of a kiss, preserved forever in the brilliance of a diamond. Ready to continue this royal love story with a marquise of your own?

A Sparkly Journey Through the Ages

With the marquise shape’s royal and romantic roots, it became very popular among nobility and aristocrats in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Its sleek, elongated shape was the ultimate symbol of status and elegance. Fun fact: it was also called the navette cut, French for ‘little boat,’ thanks to its charming boat-like shape!

The marquise shape made a stylish comeback during the Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s. Its bold, elongated shape fit right in with the geometric flair of the time, making it a go-to for engagement rings and statement jewelry. It was a perfect match—timeless elegance meets daring design!

Fast forward to the groovy 1970s and the glamorous 1980s, when the marquise cut took center stage once again. Its bold, dramatic shape was a perfect match for the fashion-forward, daring styles of the time ~ talk about a spotlight-worthy comeback!

Today, the marquise is having another extra-sparkly comeback! Loved for its vintage charm and unique flair, it’s perfect for anyone craving something unique and out of the ordinary. A-list celebrities are photographed on the red carpet and other glamorous events wearing custom marquise designs. Its standout shape not only makes the diamond look bigger but also gives fingers an elegant, elongated look ~ now that’s a double-win for style and sparkle!

 

 

Finding Your Perfect
Marquise: A Guide to
Choosing with Confidence

Choosing the best marquise shape gemstone isn’t just about knowing the basics—it’s about having a sparkle-savvy eye for the extraordinary! Not every jeweler can sprinkle that extra bit of magic, which is why teaming up with Diamonds Forever is like having your very own fairy god-jeweler. We get the quirks, the charm, and the personality of this unique shape. When you work with us, you’re not just picking out a gem ~ you’re joining forces with a partner to create something truly exceptional!

Ready to add a little more magic to your jewelry box? Here’s everything you need to know before falling in love with a marquise shape of your own!

When choosing the perfect marquise-shaped gemstone, the cut is where the magic truly begins! Imagine the facets as a well-coordinated dance troupe, each one taking its place to make sure your marquise gemstone shines like the star it is, without a shadow stealing the show. When every one of its facets works in harmony, the result is a show-stopping sparkle that’s impossible to ignore.

Keep the following in mind when selecting your marquise:

• 58 Facets of Fabulous: The marquise loves to dazzle with its 58 facets—just like the round brilliant cut—but with a flair all its own. While the round brilliant offers that classic, even sparkle, the marquise knows how to put on a show! Its elongated shape catches light in a whole new way, sending shimmering rays dancing along its length, tip to tip. Imagine light winking at you as it moves—now that’s eye-catching!

• The Bow-tie versus Brilliance: Ever notice that little shadow in the center of your marquise? That’s the bow-tie effect. While some find it charming, we believe your marquise deserves to sparkle without distractions. With an expert cut, that bow-tie can be minimized, letting pure brilliance take center stage. Think of symmetry and proportion as your gemstone’s perfect dance partners—when they move in harmony, your marquise will dazzle like it’s meant to.

• Color in Sync: When it comes to making your marquise gemstone truly sparkle, a little color finesse goes a long way! Lower color grades can let that sneaky bow-tie effect steal the spotlight and add an unwanted tint (especially at those pointy tips). But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! For diamonds, we recommend aiming for near-colorless or better. Got your eye on a bigger gem? Larger stones deserve a color grade of G or better. And if you love vibrant colored gems, go for those rich, deep hues—they’ll make your marquise pop. Get your color in perfect sync, and watch your marquise dazzle from every angle!

• Clarity in Motion: Think of clarity as the rhythm in your gem’s melody—those tiny inclusions are like little hiccups that can throw off the beat. But get it just right, and your marquise will dance and twinkle in perfect harmony! For the best performance, aim for a VS clarity grade or higher. Keep a lookout for any sneaky inclusions, especially near the sharp points and the table (yep, that’s the top center of your stone). Nail the clarity, and watch your marquise steal the show with every sparkle!

• The Sweet Spot of Ideal Ratios: Capturing that signature marquise sparkle means finding the perfect ratio. Think of it like hitting the high note in a song—get it just right, and the brilliance sings. Too much or too little, and the magic fades. The sweet spot? Most marquises shine brightest with a length-to-width ratio between 1.75:1 and 2.25:1. This balanced harmony creates a look that’s both striking and flattering.

• Symmetry Magic: When it comes to marquise gemstones, symmetry is the secret sauce that makes your gem have that super sparkle! Without it, the brilliance can fade, but when everything’s in balance, your marquise shines like a superstar. The elongated shape and pointed ends crave just the right proportions to catch and reflect light beautifully. So, what’s the magic ratio? Look for a stone that’s about twice as long as it is wide. And for top-tier sparkle? Make sure your marquise has symmetry with a grade of good or better. Get that balance just right, and your marquise will dazzle with every move, turning heads and lighting up the room!

• Symmetry Simplified: 
  • Pointed Ends: Should align perfectly for balanced brilliance.
  • Sides: Must mirror each other for a harmonious shape.
  • Curves: The wings should have identical curves for smooth light reflection.
  • Table: Ensure it’s centered for optimal sparkle.
  • Facets: Check for any missing or extra facets that could affect the gem’s symmetry.

• The Silhouette: Girdle Thickness—Finding the Perfect Frame: Think of the girdle as your marquise’s delicate frame—it plays a crucial role in both durability and that knockout visual appeal. A girdle that’s too thick can add unwanted carat weight, making the stone appear bulkier than necessary and reducing light performance. On the flip side, a girdle that’s too thin might leave those precious points vulnerable to chipping. Ideally, you want a girdle with a thickness graded from medium to slightly thick. This range offers the perfect balance between durability and brilliance, ensuring your marquise sparkles while staying well-protected. Don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through every step, helping you find the right balance between strength and sparkle!

• The Perfect Polish—The Finishing Touch for Your Marquise’s Dazzling Sparkle: Think of polish like that final flourish on your perfect manicure—without it, even the most gorgeous marquise can lose its sparkle! Those tiny surface imperfections from a poor polish? They’re like smudges on a masterpiece, dulling the brilliance and stealing the spotlight. So, what’s the secret? Aim for a marquise diamond with an excellent or very good polish rating. With a smooth, flawless surface, every facet will catch the light perfectly, letting your gem shine bright like it was meant to—brilliant, breathtaking, and totally eye-catching!

Let’s Create Your
Marquise Masterpiece Together!

Once we’ve found your perfect gemstone, we’ll come together to create a one-of-a-kind treasure that’s just as special as you are! Picture your marquise gemstone as a movie star, with everything else in the design playing an adoring supporting role, ensuring your marquise sparkles like the superstar it truly is!

Now, let’s talk about those striking pointed ends. They’re like the high notes in a symphony—gorgeous, but they need a little extra attention to keep everything in harmony. Marquise tips are delicate and more prone to chipping, especially in designs where the stone is set high or left exposed. This is why V-prongs are often a great choice ~ they cradle those sharp ends and offer extra durability without taking away from the stone’s elegance. Think of it as giving your gemstone the red carpet treatment—secure and glamorous.

If you’re after a sleek, modern look, a bezel setting might be the perfect fit. By wrapping the entire edge of the marquise, it offers top-notch protection while keeping the design contemporary and smooth. Whether you choose the added security of V-prongs or the sleek protection of a bezel, your marquise will be as safe as it is stunning.

Together, we’ll make sure every detail—right down to those dainty tips—is perfectly cared for, creating a masterpiece that will sparkle and stay flawless for generations to come.

From Vintage to Modern: The Marquise’s Timeless Dance

Born in the glamorous royal courts of the 18th century, the marquise shape has been twirling through time with elegance and flair. From the opulent splendor of antique heirlooms to today’s chic, modern designs, this shape has evolved yet never lost its sparkle. Whether it’s whispering tales of romance from a bygone era or adding a dash of sophistication to contemporary styles, the marquise is the life of the party ~ charming hearts and turning heads wherever it goes. Ready to join the dance?

The marquise cut is the chameleon of the jewelry world, effortlessly blending into any design while charming everyone with its brilliant sparkle. From vintage-inspired pieces to modern masterpieces, this shape adds a touch of elegance and a splash of uniqueness to every design. Let the marquise dress up your style and watch the magic unfold.

Though the marquise shape may be man-made, it loves to play hide-and-seek in nature—just look at the pointed tips of leaves, seed pods, and flower petals! This graceful, timeless form feels like wearing a little piece of nature’s magic. It’s also a superstar in gemstone designs, especially when used in flower and vine motifs. Whether it’s outlined with twinkling round stones or paired with petite marquise accent stones, this shape brings a splash of natural charm and sparkle to any piece. Ready to let a little nature-inspired magic dance into your jewelry box?

 

 

Marquise Magic in
Action: Sparkling Client Stories

Our clients are head over heels for the marquise shape! Whether swooning over the classic charm of diamonds or dazzled by the vibrant hues of sapphires, the marquise brings maximum sparkle and endless joy. This gem is the ultimate showstopper, and we’re thrilled to share its magic with you! Each marquise-shaped gem has its own sparkle-filled story, and our clients are eager to let you in on their dazzling adventures!

In 2024, Shelley C designed a marquise diamond engagement ring: “I’m completely obsessed with my marquise-cut ring! The shape is so elegant, those pointed ends make it feel extra special, like it’s both timeless and unique. It’s the perfect blend of classic and modern, and I love that it’s just a little different from the rest . . .”

In 2022, Sal M designed a blue sapphire engagement ring: “. . . I chose the marquise shape because it’s elegant but still has that wow factor. The way it makes the sapphire look even bigger was a bonus. My fiance loves how different it is, and I swear she shows it off more than she talks about me! . . . “

In 2019, Melanie C designed a three row marquise diamond tennis bracelet: “. . . I’ve always loved the marquise shape, so when I designed my marquise diamond tennis bracelet, I knew it would be stunning—but WOW! it flows so much better than my old round diamond bracelet, almost like the diamonds are swimming along my wrist. And the sparkle? INSANE. It catches the light like nothing else. I’m completely obsessed!”

 

The Diamonds Forever Commitment

Extraordinary Design + Extraordinary Experience

At Diamonds Forever, we’re all about creating sparkle with passion and care! Every piece we design is a blend of quality, craftsmanship, and a dash of magic. From the finest materials to meticulous attention to detail, we turn your dream into a dazzling reality. Imagine your perfect marquise-shaped gemstone ~ we can’t wait to work hand-in-hand with you to craft a piece as unique and extraordinary as you are.

Whether you’re dreaming of a diamond that shines like a star or a splash of color that lights up the room, we’re here to make sure your piece sparkles and lasts a lifetime. Quality isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are. Ready to create something fabulous? We can’t wait to meet you!

Click below to schedule
your appointment today!

Ready to Fall Head Over Heels for the Marquise?

Let’s create something together that will steal your heart!

 

 

What Our Happy Clients Say

And more clients who have fallen in love with the marquise magic ~

In 2024, Mia C designed a marquise classic blue sapphire prong-set eternity wedding band in 14K white gold: “I am absolutely obsessed with my new sapphire wedding band! It’s everything I wanted and more. It’s bold, elegant, and with that perfect touch of punk rock that screams me. It did take a little while to get the size of the sapphires just right; I knew I wanted something big and striking but not too over-the-top. Jenny was patient throughout the process, helping me find the perfect balance. She understood my vision and guided me every step until we got it exactly right. I’ve always loved the marquise shape—it’s got this sleek, edgy vibe while still being so sophisticated. This band is a dream come true, and I can’t stop staring at it! If you’re as crazy about the marquise shape as I am, I highly recommend working with Jenny and the team at Diamonds Forever. They totally nailed it.”

In 2022, Cyril R designed a marquise diamond and teal sapphire necklace set east-west in 14K yellow gold: “My experience with Diamonds Forever has been nothing short of exceptional. For our 25th anniversary, I wanted to create a necklace that would perfectly complement my wife’s marquise engagement ring. Jenny was instrumental in helping me design a beautiful piece featuring a stunning combination of sapphires and diamonds. The process was an absolute pleasure. Jenny’s expertise and genuine care made every step enjoyable and stress-free. The necklace turned out to be even more breathtaking than I had envisioned. It beautifully matches my wife’s marquise engagement ring, and she was thrilled when she received it. Since then, she’s visited Jenny several times for various repairs and redesigns, and each experience has only deepened our appreciation for Diamonds Forever. Jenny’s attention to detail and passion for fine jewelry are evident in everything she does. Whether you’re looking to create a custom piece or explore the beauty of marquise diamonds, you can trust that you’re in the best hands with Jenny and her team. We couldn’t be happier with the exceptional service and stunning craftsmanship we’ve experienced at Diamonds Forever.”

In 2024, Amy A designed a large marquise diamond eternity band in 18K yellow gold: “I recently decided to go for it and get a stack for my wedding, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience at Diamonds Forever in San Diego! I landed on three bands, and I love it so much. They all go perfectly with my engagement ring. It’s just what I wanted, and I’m so excited to wear them after the wedding, though I do admit I put them on at home on the regular and just stare at them, so gorgeous!!!! All the Diamonds Forever girls were absolutely fantastic to work with. They really listened to what I was envisioning and helped me create a stack that’s truly special. If you’re looking for an engagement ring in San Diego or want to explore unique engagement ring stacks, I can’t recommend Diamonds Forever enough!”

In 2021, Jeni T designed an alternating marquise and round lab-grown diamond band with milgrain in 18K yellow gold: “I’ve been a client of Diamonds Forever since my engagement ring in 2010, and they never disappoint. I just added another ring to my engagement ring stack and thought, why not start a new stack on my right hand? So I did!!! This place is so much fun – who doesn’t love seeing all the sparkly jewelry? I love this place and can’t wait to come back for more! As an added bonus, everyone is so nice.”

In 2024, Brandon G designed an antique inspired engagement ring with an heirloom marquise shape diamond set into 14K white gold with custom engraving and a satin finish: “I recently had the pleasure of working with Jenny at Diamonds Forever to design an engagement ring using my mother’s marquise cut diamond ring. From the moment I walked into the store, I felt like I was in great hands. Jenny really took the time to understand my vision and helped me explore different ways to make the ring special. After discussing a few ideas, we decided to give the ring a modern twist by setting the marquise cut diamond horizontally across the finger. The result is absolutely stunning! The way the diamond sits on the band is so unique, and it really brings out the elegance of the stone while adding a contemporary touch. The process was smooth and enjoyable, and I’m beyond happy with how everything turned out. If you’re looking for marquise engagement rings, I can’t recommend Jenny and her team at Diamonds Forever highly enough. They truly know how to turn a vision into reality. I’m so grateful for the care and attention they put into making this ring perfect. Thanks, Jenny!”

In 2022, Kelly D designed a seafoam green marquise sapphire band in 14K yellow gold: “I recently added two rings to my stack and I couldn’t be happier! I chose a gorgeous eternity band and even designed a custom one with Jenny. How fun is that? It’s incredible how these bands make my engagement ring feel as exciting as the day I was proposed to. I know myself, and one day I might want to redesign my ring, but for now, adding bands is like reinventing it in the best way possible. If you’re looking for something special, Diamonds Forever is the place to go. I’m thrilled with my stack!”

In 2021, Mike R designed a modern custom engagement ring with a marquise-shaped center stone with hand-engraving:” If you’re looking for a top-rated engagement ring store in San Diego, Diamonds Forever should be your first stop. They were my first stop and my last stop. I shopped around at a lot other stores, but Diamonds Forever set the bar so high it was a no-brainer to go with them.”

In 2024, Janice B upgraded and redesigned her engagement ring, this time going for an elegant solitaire and adding on a cigar band with a rustic diamond brush finish and a large marquise diamond band: “I am so happy with my newly redesigned wedding set! Celebrating our 20th anniversary, I wanted to do something special to honor our marriage, and what better way than to redesign my engagement ring? Why diamond for engagement ring? Because to me it represents the love my husband and I have shared for two wonderful decades. Jenny and her team were absolutely fantastic. They took my original ring and turned it into a breathtaking 2.5-carat emerald cut masterpiece, which is more than a carat bigger than the original. Back then, we couldn’t afford a diamond like that but now we can and it’s so exciting to finally have what I always wanted. I even toyed with the idea of a lab-grown diamond but ultimately opted for a natural one. I love the thought of something that old and still surviving. I love my husband so much, and this ring is a beautiful way to celebrate our journey together. Thank you, Jenny, for making our anniversary so special. If you’re considering an engagement ring or a redesign, Diamonds Forever in San Diego is the place to go!”

In 2008, Andy O designed an antique inspired engagement ring with a marquise shape yellow sapphire set into a solitaire setting in 18K yellow gold with a brushed finish: “I was on the hunt for something special and ended up with an antique-style ring with a cool shaped sapphire. It’s everything I hoped for! My buddy referred me to Diamonds Forever, and honestly, everything went perfectly. This place is the best-kept secret in San Diego, I can’t believe everyone doesn’t know about them! If you’re after classic engagement rings in San Diego that are unique, this is where you need to be. Super happy with how it all turned out!”

In 2023, Krystal N designed a pink marquise sapphire and diamond mother’s 3-stone ring in 14K rose gold: “I recently had the pleasure of working with Jenny at Diamonds Forever to design a mother’s ring, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. I wanted something unique and special, so we used a marquise diamond as the centerpiece, with smaller marquise stones throughout the design. Jenny’s creativity and attention to detail truly brought my vision to life. The final ring is absolutely stunning, and I’m so impressed with how Jenny was able to capture exactly what I was hoping for. The way she incorporated the marquise diamonds into the design is nothing short of brilliant, it’s a piece I will cherish forever. I love my marquise. If you want to create something custom, I highly recommend working with Jenny and her team at Diamonds Forever. They have a knack for turning ideas into reality, and their collection of marquise engagement rings and other beautiful pieces is simply exquisite. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone wanting to make something special.”