Diamond Guide

Note: Insert image of marquise diamond ring (s) on hand or only ring(s)

What is a Marquise Cut Diamond?

A marquise cut diamond is a dramatic, elongated shape with pointed ends, designed to mimic the look of a boat. It’s often recognized for its sleek, elegant silhouette, which combines the brilliance of a round diamond with the elegant lines of an oval. Marquise diamonds are known for their ability to maximize carat weight, making them appear larger than other cuts of the same carat size. This makes them a great choice for those seeking a larger look without breaking the bank. Whether set as a solitaire or in a halo, the marquise cut offers a striking, sophisticated appearance that demands attention.

History of Marquise Cut Diamonds

The marquise cut dates to the 18th century and is steeped in royal history. Legend has it that the shape was created by French King Louis XV for his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, whose smile was said to inspire the diamond’s elongated, pointed shape. Over the years, the marquise cut has maintained its popularity among the aristocracy and elite. It rose to major prominence during the 1970s, when it became a top choice for engagement rings, and it continues to be a statement-making option for modern couples today.

Note: Insert image of marquise diamond ring (s) on hand or only ring(s)

Why Choose a Marquise Cut Diamond?

The marquise cut is known for creating the illusion of a larger diamond. Its elongated shape can make it appear bigger than a round diamond of the same carat weight, giving you a “wow factor” at a lower price. With a timeless, elegant look, their unique shape, a breath of sophistication, perfect for someone who wants to stand out from the crowd with a diamond that feels both classic and bold. Marquise cut diamonds also have the added benefit of making fingers appear longer and slenderer. The marquise cut is incredibly versatile and looks stunning in a variety of settings, from traditional solitaires to elaborate halos. Its shape can work beautifully in both vintage and contemporary designs.

One drawback of the marquise cut is that it can show a bowtie effect, where there’s a dark area in the center of the diamond due to how light reflects within the shape. A high-quality cut can minimize this, but it’s something to be aware of when choosing a marquise diamond. Additionally, the sharp points on either end are vulnerable to chipping, so make sure the diamond is set securely.

Tips for Choosing a Marquise Cut

The quality of the cut is vital when choosing a marquise diamond. Unlike round or oval cuts, the marquise’s pointed ends can sometimes make it more prone to chipping, so be sure to select a diamond with good symmetry. Look for diamonds with excellent or ideal cuts to ensure the best brilliance. The length-to-width ratio of the Marquise should be around 1.75 to 2.0 for a balanced, classic look.

Marquise diamonds tend to show less color than round diamonds because of their elongated shape. G-H color grades offer a good balance of value and brilliance, but you can opt for slightly lower grades if you want to stretch your budget. The shape also tends to mask color better than the round cut.

Given its long, flat surface, inclusions may be more noticeable in a marquise diamond, particularly near the pointed ends. For the best overall appearance, choose diamonds with VS1-VS2 clarity or higher to ensure an eye-clean stone.

Marquise cut diamonds are known for their ability to look larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, thanks to their elongated form. This means you can get a more substantial-looking diamond without spending as much as you would for a round or cushion cut of the same carat size.