A clear-cut guide to diamond rings, including the lowdown on the latest, most dazzling multi-stone settings from Winter 2005
Legend has it that the elegantly tapered marquise—with its rounded sides and points at each end—was 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