Why Marquise Engagement Rings Make Your Diamond Look Bigger

Marquise diamonds can appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight because of their long, narrow silhouette, which creates generous face-up coverage. The pointed ends of a marquise stone extend the visual line even further, making it ideal for smaller hands. 

Carat size is a measure of weight, not visible size. Two 1-carat diamonds can look noticeably different if one is a marquise cut and the other a round cut. Below, we’re exploring why marquise engagement rings make your diamond look bigger and why it might be worth considering for your custom ring.

Why Does a Marquise Diamond Look Bigger?

A marquise diamond can look bigger as it distributes its weight across an elongated surface with two tapered points. As the stone covers more of your finger, your eye interprets it as a larger stone. 

You’ll want to find the right balance between carat size and the stone’s length-to-width ratio to achieve your desired look. Our gemstone finder invites you to explore dozens of marquise stones to find the perfect match for your ring.

Carat Isn’t the Same Thing as Size

The carat size tells you how much a diamond weighs, but it doesn’t tell you its size or how large it appears from above. Depth and proportions affect where the stone’s weight sits, so it’s best to avoid comparing marquise diamonds solely by using their carat weights.

Instead, compare the stone’s length and width in millimeters, including the length-to-width ratio, to understand its face-up appearance and get a better idea of how it will look in your chosen setting.

The Length-to-Width Ratio Changes the Effect

Some marquise diamonds are fuller and wider, while others have a noticeably slimmer and more elongated silhouette. A longer marquise stone emphasizes the stone’s vertical finger coverage. By comparison, a wider stone creates a bolder look with a greater focus on the middle of the stone.

There isn’t a single “best” ratio for a marquise diamond. You’ll want to decide if a slender or fuller marquise stone will work better for your hand shape and ring setting.

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Marquise?

Size isn’t the only thing to consider when shopping for a marquise stone. You’ll want your stone to have symmetry, with the two sides feeling balanced. Some marquise diamonds can have a bow-tie-shaped area at the center of the stone, which appears darker, so it’s worth checking how noticeable this may be on your stone.

You’ll also want to choose the right setting for your marquise diamond. The pointed ends of the stone are vulnerable to damage with daily wear, so you’ll want a setting that can protect these points, such as a bezel.

Is a Marquise Engagement Ring Right for You?

A marquise engagement ring is the perfect option if you want a ring with plenty of visual presence and a brilliant-style sparkle. Marquise rings have an elongated shape, which is ideal for minimalistic, botanical, celestial, and fantasy-inspired settings, giving you a less conventional look than a round or oval diamond.

Start your journey to saying “I do” by shopping our range of sustainable marquise engagement rings or book a virtual consultation to start designing a bespoke engagement ring.