Marquise Cut Diamond: Everything You Need to Know

October 4th, 2023 / Alese Oldenburg

What Is a Marquise Cut Diamond?

The marquise cut diamond is a captivating and distinctive diamond shape characterized by its elongated, elliptical design with two pointed ends. This unique shape resembles the hull of a boat, hence its alternate name, the “navette” cut. The marquise cut typically features 58 facets, which include the table, crown, girdle, and pavilion. These facets work in harmony to create exceptional brilliance and fire, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.

The elongated silhouette of the marquise cut diamond offers several advantages, including the illusion of a larger diamond size, as it maximizes the surface area in contact with light. This cut also has a flattering effect on the wearer’s finger, creating an elegant and elongated appearance. If you are looking for a marquise cut diamond ring or marquise cut diamond engagement ring, there are a few things you need to know. In this blog post, we will discuss the history of the marquise cut diamond, the benefits of choosing a marquise cut diamond, and how to choose the perfect marquise cut diamond ring.

History of the Marquise Cut Diamond

The history of the marquise cut diamond dates back to the 18th century in France when King Louis XV commissioned a diamond in the shape of the lips of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. This unique and romantic shape gained widespread popularity, becoming known as the “marquise” cut, a symbol of elegance and love.

Over the centuries, the marquise cut has remained a sought-after choice for engagement rings, cherished for its timeless appeal and connection to a bygone era of romance and luxury.

Characteristics of Marquise Cut Diamond

Shape and Proportions:

The marquise cut diamond is known for its distinctive elongated shape with two pointed ends. This shape is often likened to a boat or a football.
One critical aspect of a marquise cut is its length-to-width ratio, which typically ranges from 1.75 to 2.25. This ratio affects the diamond’s overall appearance, determining how elongated or compact it appears.

Clarity:

Clarity in marquise cut diamonds refers to the presence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively.
The clarity grade of a marquise cut diamond assesses the visibility and impact of these characteristics on the diamond’s overall appearance.
The positioning of inclusions can vary within a marquise cut, and their location may influence how noticeable they are to the naked eye.

Color:

Like all diamonds, marquise cut diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
The choice of color grade depends on personal preference and budget, with some preferring a whiter appearance while others may appreciate the warmth of lower color grades.
The face-up appearance of a marquise cut diamond can vary based on its color grade, affecting its overall visual appeal.

Cut:

Marquise cut diamonds typically have 58 facets, including the table, crown, girdle, and pavilion, strategically arranged to maximize brilliance and sparkle.
Cut quality is essential in minimizing the “bowtie effect,” a dark area that can appear in the center of some marquise cuts. Well-cut marquise diamonds aim to minimize this effect and optimize light performance.
Symmetry is crucial in marquise cuts, especially in the pointed ends, as it significantly contributes to the overall beauty and balance of the diamond’s appearance.

Pros of Marquise Cut Diamond

Elongated Elegance: The marquise cut’s elongated shape visually lengthens the wearer’s finger, resulting in a graceful and flattering look. This makes it an ideal choice for those who desire a ring that enhances the hand’s appearance.
Brilliant Sparkle: With its numerous facets, the marquise cut diamond reflects light beautifully, producing an exceptional level of brilliance. This ensures that the ring will catch eyes and hearts alike with its dazzling sparkle.
Illusion of Size: One of the remarkable advantages of the marquise cut is its ability to create the illusion of a larger diamond. Due to its elongated shape, it covers more surface area, making it appear larger than diamonds of similar carat weight in other shapes.
Unique and Vintage Appeal: The marquise cut exudes a unique, vintage charm that sets it apart from more common diamond shapes. Its history and timeless elegance make it a distinctive choice for those who appreciate individuality in their jewelry.

Cons of Marquise Cut Diamond

Vulnerability to Chips: While the pointed ends of a marquise cut diamond contribute to its unique beauty, they can also make it more susceptible to chipping and damage compared to other diamond shapes. Proper care and protective settings are essential to minimize this risk.
Bowtie Effect: Some marquise-cut diamonds may exhibit a dark area in the center, known as the “bowtie effect.” This occurs due to variations in the diamond’s angles and can affect the overall appearance. Choosing a well-cut marquise diamond can help mitigate this issue.

Why Is the Marquise-Cut Diamond So Popular?

The marquise-cut diamond’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its combination of elegance, vintage allure, and brilliant sparkle. It offers a unique alternative to traditional round or princess-cut diamonds, making it a choice for those who seek individuality and a touch of history in their engagement rings.

The marquise cut’s ability to create a visually elongated and flattering effect on the finger makes it especially appealing. Its striking brilliance and distinct shape make it an eye-catching choice for those who want their engagement ring to stand out and be a conversation piece.

Tips for Choosing a Marquise Cut Diamond

Proportions Matter: When selecting a marquise cut diamond, consider the length-to-width ratio. A ratio between 1.75 and 2.25 typically results in an elegant marquise shape. This ratio determines the overall appearance of the diamond.

Cut Quality: Pay close attention to the cut quality of the marquise diamond. A well-cut marquise should have symmetrical points and a minimal bowtie effect. This ensures that the diamond exhibits its brilliant sparkle to the fullest.

Setting Choice: Given the marquise cut’s pointed ends, consider choosing a protective setting, such as bezel or V-tip prongs, to safeguard the delicate tips from potential damage.

Certification: Ensure that the marquise cut diamond comes with a reputable certification from recognized gemological laboratories, such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society). Certification provides essential information about the diamond’s quality and characteristics, giving you confidence in your purchase.

Personal Preference: Ultimately, choose a marquise cut diamond that resonates with your personal style and preferences. Consider factors such as color, clarity, carat weight, and any unique features that make the diamond special to you.

The marquise cut diamond is a unique and timeless choice for engagement rings, offering elegance, brilliance, and a touch of history. By following these tips and considering its pros and cons, you can select the perfect marquise-cut diamond that symbolizes your love and individuality. Whether you’re drawn to its elongated elegance or captivated by its vintage allure, the marquise cut is a symbol of enduring love and style.