Totally Brilliant
A clear-cut guide to diamond rings, including the lowdown on the latest, most dazzling multi-stone settings from Winter 2005
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Ellen McDermott
Marquise
Legend has it that the elegantly tapered marquisewith its rounded sides and points at each endwas invented during the 18th-century reign of Louis XV. (Supposedly it was named for the French king's mistress, who was the Marquise de Pompadour.) Contemporary versions have a hexagon-shaped surface with facets on top and bottom to reflect light. The distinctive shape is for women who like to make a statement: Catherine Zeta-Jones owns a marquise engagement ring.

4.18 total carats in platinum, Kwiat, $15,500; 800-927-4367

1.16 total carats in platinum, Suzanne Felsen, $10,500; 310-315-1972

4.18 total carats in platinum, Kwiat, $15,500; 800-927-4367