The Marquise Cut Diamond Guide
ReadWith a rich history steeped in impassioned romance, the marquise cut is still a modern choice for your engagement ring. This guide will help you decode the cut, learn what to avoid and inspire your marquise cut diamond design.
WHAT IS A MARQUISE CUT?
The marquise cut tapers to a point at either end, with soft curves joining these points to encompass the belly of the stone. It is pronounced ‘mar-keez’.
Commissioned by King Louis XV in the 18th century, the marquise cut is said to have been designed to resemble the lips of his beautiful mistress Marquise de Pompadou. Legend has it that they met at a masked ball in Versaille and the rest was history. It has since been modified and perfected into the elegant marquise cut that we recognise today.
WHY MARQUISE CUT?
The weight distribution of a marquise cut is along the length of the diamond, meaning that in comparison to a round brilliant cut of the same carat weight a marquise cut will appear considerably larger. Optically, a marquise cut will also elongate the finger making it a popular choice for clients with this in mind.
WHAT SIZE IS A 1CT MARQUISE CUT?
Carat is a measurement of weight rather than size, so this depends on the spread of a diamond.
However, you can expect an averagely proportioned marquise cut of 1ct to measure 10.38x5.19mm when viewed from the top.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR?
A length-to-width ratio of 2:1 creates the most traditional marquise cut, although the optimum proportions sit within the bracket of 1.6:1 to 2.2:1 depending on the overall look you’re hoping to create for your ring.
Outside of this range, the marquise can lose its brightness and pattern.
SYMMETRY & POLISH
These are also important measures of your diamond’s cut, and will be graded on your accompanying GIA certificate. We wouldn’t recommending going any lower than ‘very good’ on either.
THE BOW TIE EFFECT
It’s worth noting that the bow tie effect - an interplay of light and shadow within the diamond that creates a dark band across its centre - is particularly prevalent in longer brilliant cuts like the marquise and pear cut diamond.
HOW CAN I SPOT A BOW TIE?
It can be identified in photos but not from the GIA report alone, so we would always recommend seeing a photo or video of the diamond before making your purchase.
WHAT SETTING STYLES WORK BEST?
Due to its length, double bands complement the marquise cut well. Not only does the stone remain supported, and therefore less likely to catch on anything, the double band also feels like a perfectly modern pairing for this very classic diamond cut.
