Popular Marquise Cut Diamond Styles

The marquise-cut diamond is one of the most eye-catching and elegant shapes in the world of fine jewelry. Its elongated, pointed form offers a unique look that sets it apart from more common cuts like round or oval. Over the years, the marquise diamond has found its place in both vintage-inspired and modern jewelry collections, especially when it comes to engagement rings. Whether you prefer something classic or a bit more detailed, marquise engagement rings come in several popular styles, including solitaire, half pavé, and full pavé settings. Each one offers a slightly different aesthetic, allowing you to find a design that fits your taste.

What Is a Marquise Diamond?

A marquise diamond is a brilliant-cut stone shaped like a long oval with pointed ends. It’s also sometimes called the “navette cut,” which means “little ship” in French, due to its resemblance to a small boat. This shape dates back to the 18th century and was created for French royalty. One of the main reasons people choose a marquise cut engagement ring is that the shape can create the illusion of longer, slender fingers. The pointed tips and elongated form also allow the diamond to appear larger than other stones of the same carat weight.

Half Pavé Marquise Cut

This style has quietly become more popular in recent years. One example that got people talking was Selena Gomez’s rumored engagement ring, which many think had a marquise-shaped diamond in a pavé or half pavé setting.

A half pavé setting means there are small diamonds on just one side of the ring’s band, while the other side is plain. This adds a bit of sparkle but still keeps the focus on the main diamond, the marquise. It’s a nice mix of simple and stylish, great for people who want something pretty but not too flashy.

Full Pavé Marquise Cut

If you're looking for something more detailed, a full pavé setting covers the entire band with tiny diamonds. This creates a continuous sparkle around the finger and adds a luxurious feel to the ring.

A full pavé marquise engagement ring is often chosen by those who love glamour and bold statement pieces. The diamonds along the band complement the central marquise cut beautifully, enhancing its brilliance from every angle. While this style is more intricate, it remains elegant and structured, especially when the craftsmanship is precise and the setting is well balanced.

Solitaire Marquise Cut 

A solitaire marquise engagement ring features a single marquise diamond set on a plain band. This style is known for its simplicity and timeless elegance. It puts the focus entirely on the stone, letting the unique shape and sparkle of the marquise cut stand out. Solitaire settings are ideal for those who prefer minimal, clean designs without additional diamonds or detailing. They also allow more flexibility when pairing with wedding bands later on.

The marquise-cut engagement ring is a bold yet elegant choice that continues to grow in popularity. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a solitaire, the balanced sparkle of a half pavé, or the brilliance of a full pavé band, there’s a marquise style that can match your taste. Its distinct shape, rich history, and versatile design options make the marquise engagement ring a timeless and meaningful piece, perfect for anyone looking for something just a little different.