Marquise Diamond Engagement Rings: A Guide
A pointed, elongated stone that looks generous for its weight and lengthens the finger — here's what makes the marquise distinctive and how to choose one.
Quick answer
A marquise is an elongated cut with two pointed ends, shaped like an eye or a boat. It covers a lot of surface area, so it looks large for its carat weight and flatters the finger by elongating it. It suits a solitaire with protective V-tips, a halo, or a three-stone setting, and is made to order in solid 9, 14 or 18ct gold, with natural diamonds graded by GIA or HRD and lab-grown by IGI.
What is a marquise cut?
The marquise is a long, narrow brilliant cut with two tapering points, often described as an eye or boat shape. It's a brilliant-style cut, so it sparkles like a round, but its elongated outline gives it a very different presence. Its large surface area is its signature: a marquise looks bigger on the hand than a round or princess of the same carat weight.
Why choose a marquise?
- Looks large for its weight. High surface area means more visible size per carat.
- Elongates the finger. The long shape flatters and slims the hand.
- Distinctive. Less common than round or oval, so it stands out.
- Timeless character. A vintage, regal feel that pairs well with both classic and modern settings.
Things to consider
Two things are worth knowing. First, the points are the most vulnerable part of the stone, so a setting that protects them — typically V-shaped tip prongs — is recommended for everyday wear. Second, like many elongated brilliants, a marquise can show a faint bow-tie (a shadow across the centre); a well-cut stone keeps this minimal, and we help you choose a lively stone. Symmetry matters too, so the two points align.
Best settings for a marquise
A solitaire with V-tip prongs keeps the look clean while protecting the points. A halo adds sparkle and extra presence around the elongated outline — see the halo and double halo rings. A three-stone or cluster setting frames the marquise with side stones for more brilliance; our cluster and dress rings include marquise-set designs. See our setting styles guide to compare. A marquise can be set pointing up the finger (most common) or east-west for a modern look.
Metal and diamonds
Every marquise ring is made in solid 9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold — never plated — and qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973. Choose natural or lab-grown diamonds to suit your budget — natural diamonds independently graded by GIA or HRD, lab-grown by IGI. Each ring is made to your size and specification, typically within 14 days, or created as a fully bespoke design.
Is a marquise right for you?
Because every band is made to order in your size and carat, you can keep the design you love and adjust the details to suit. Message our team on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose.
Shop natural diamond rings → Or design a bespoke marquise ring
Frequently asked questions
What is a marquise cut diamond?
A marquise is a long, narrow brilliant cut with two pointed ends, shaped like an eye or boat. It sparkles like a round but has an elongated outline that looks large on the hand.
Does a marquise look bigger than other shapes?
Yes. Its large surface area means a marquise generally looks bigger for its carat weight than a round or princess of the same weight.
Are marquise rings durable for everyday wear?
They are, with the right setting. The pointed ends are the most vulnerable part, so a setting with V-shaped tip prongs is recommended to protect them.
What is the bow-tie effect?
A faint shadow that can appear across the centre of elongated brilliant cuts. A well-cut marquise keeps it minimal — we help you choose a lively, even stone.
Are marquise engagement rings made to my size?
Yes. Every ring is made to order in your size and specification in solid 9, 14 or 18ct gold. Natural diamonds are independently graded by GIA or HRD, lab-grown by IGI. Bespoke designs are also available.