Diamond-Shaped Diamonds A Cut Above the Rest
Diamond-Shaped Diamonds A Cut Above the Rest
It wasn't until my best friend Lucy dragged me into an upscale jewelry store in Manhattan that I fully appreciated the allure of diamond-shaped diamond engagement rings. Watching her narrow her choices among the various cuts was like witnessing a mini-saga of elegance and charm unfold. Growing up, I always assumed engagement rings were synonymous with round diamonds, but it turns out that diamonds shaped like diamonds—yes, picture that—have a unique claim to sophistication all their own.
The diamond shape, often referred to as the marquise or navette cut, is believed to have been commissioned by King Louis XV of France, who wanted a diamond to resemble the lips of his beloved, Madame de Pompadour. Unlike the round cut, which has been popular for decades due to its brilliant sparkle, the marquise offers a blend of luxury and uniqueness. Its elongated shape not only creates an illusion of a larger size but also makes the fingers appear slender and longer. It's an understated elegance that whispers rather than shouts, "I am different."
For Lucy, the choice became obvious. "It’s like wearing a little piece of history," she said, her eyes twinkling as she gazed at the marquise ring perched on her finger like it was born there. The origin story of the cut is as romantic as it is distinctive, adding a narrative depth to an already intimate object. There's something deeply satisfying about knowing your jewelry isn't just about style—it's steeped in centuries-old love stories.
Current trends are seeing a resurgence in non-traditional cuts like the marquise, as modern couples seek rings that offer a more personal touch. Celebrities and influencers are sharing their unique stone selections on social media, further pushing the boundaries of what is considered "classic" in the world of engagement rings. While some follow the herd, others, like Lucy, make choices that reflect their distinct personalities. She once told me, "The diamond doesn't need to be loud; it just needs to be me."
There's a particular delight in not conforming, in choosing something precisely because it stands apart. In a world inundated with options, sometimes the best choice is the one that tells your story just a bit differently. The marquise cut, with its royal history and modern flair, effortlessly suits a variety of metals and settings, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to break away from tradition without straying too far.
As Lucy and I left the store that day, she caught sight of herself in the mirror, her eyes still locked on her new ring. It was a moment of perfect symmetry—her reflection intertwined with her dreams, captured in the elegantly sharp lines of her diamond-shaped diamond. The entire experience had me rethinking my assumptions about engagement rings and the stories they tell. It turns out diamonds shaped like diamonds have a way of making you see life, and love, a little differently.
