Los Angeles – Selena Gomez has reignited interest in one of the jewelry world’s most romantic and historic diamond shapes—the marquise—thanks to her engagement to music producer Benny Blanco.
Known for her affinity for the elegant cut, Gomez’s preference for the marquise diamond has been public knowledge for years. She even referenced it in her 2015 hit “Good for You,” singing, “I’m a marquise diamond.” So when Blanco set out to design a custom engagement ring for the star, he made the distinctive cut the centerpiece.
A Diamond with Royal and Romantic Roots
The marquise diamond traces its origins to 18th-century France, where it is believed to have been inspired by King Louis XV’s mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. According to legend, the gem’s elongated shape was designed to mimic the shape of her lips. While some view the marquise as a tribute to romance, others believe the name derives from noblemen at Versailles who wore marquise-cut gems to signal their status.
Over time, the shape evolved with advances in diamond cutting, particularly during the early 20th century. Also known as the “navette” shape, the marquise was refined with sharper points and more facets, giving it exceptional fire and brilliance—qualities that enhance the gem’s light reflection.
Today, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) notes that marquise diamonds are commonly cut in a length-to-width ratio between 1.85 and 2.0, offering a balanced silhouette. Depending on the proportions, the cut can also make a diamond appear larger than its actual carat weight, making it a favored choice for those seeking visual impact.
Art Deco Appeal and Hollywood Glamour
The marquise diamond had a major moment during the Roaring Twenties, particularly within the Art Deco movement. Although square and rectangular stones dominated the era’s geometric designs, marquise diamonds adorned wide bracelets, dramatic earrings, and statement rings.
Hollywood actress Norma Shearer famously wore her marquise engagement ring, a gift from MGM executive Irving Thalberg in 1927, in several films, including the 1939 classic The Women. Her prominent display of the ring in studio stills helped solidify its association with glamour.
The shape’s popularity saw a revival in the 1970s, bolstered by the 1974 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby. Actress Mia Farrow, playing Daisy Buchanan, wore a marquise engagement ring—crafted not as a vintage piece but as a modern design by Cartier. After the film’s release, Cartier reportedly received customers requesting “Daisy’s ring,” cementing the marquise as a timeless yet trend-responsive style.
The Marquise’s Quiet Comeback
Despite its storied history, the marquise has remained a relatively niche choice in modern engagement rings. Iconic jewelers like Tiffany & Co. and Cartier no longer feature the cut prominently in their collections. Still, demand for the marquise has been quietly building among bespoke designers and vintage enthusiasts.
“There’s something incredibly distinctive about a marquise-cut diamond,” said fine jewelry designer Briony Raymond. “I love how versatile it can be, whether set in a classic design or something more contemporary.”
Modern settings have helped reimagine the cut. A horizontal, or “east-west,” setting softens the dramatic points, while an angled “akimbo” setting creates a sense of movement. The traditional “north-south” orientation elongates the finger, evoking elegance and vintage sophistication.
A Modern Icon Wears a Classic Cut
Gomez’s engagement ring, designed by Blanco, embraces the classic north-south setting. The marquise diamond serves as the centerpiece, flanked by larger round stones on the band for a fresh, modern shimmer. While Blanco is known for his individuality, his ring design channels old Hollywood allure—timeless, elegant, and romantic.
The actress and singer has proudly showcased the ring in numerous photos, drawing new attention to a shape long underappreciated in the modern bridal market. Thanks to Gomez’s high-profile influence, the marquise diamond is enjoying a renewed moment in the spotlight.
In a landscape dominated by round brilliants and emerald cuts, the marquise is once again proving its enduring charm—buoyed by celebrity appeal, historical significance, and the timeless romance it continues to represent.
