Diamond Shapes: Marquise Cut

The marquise cut diamond is known for its classic, historic, and whimsical shape that captures the heart of many. Marquise cut are also called the football-shaped, boat-shaped, eye-shaped, and navette which is a French word for “little ship” because it somehow resembles the shape of all these things. Despite their sophisticated and dramatic look, the marquise cut is rarely seen in engagement rings which makes this a popular choice for non-traditional brides. In this article, we are going to know more about this magnificent diamond cut and we will give you some things that you should consider when getting a marquise cut diamond. 

History

The origin of the marquise cut can be traced hundreds of years ago. In fact, its name refers to a rank in the royal family between count and duke which is given by birthright and not by marriage or appointment. The name marquise came about as a reflection of the rank of courtiers who can afford to wear these diamonds. The original version of this cut was created in the 18th century by a jeweler that was hired by King Louis XV. It is said that King Louis XV paid the jeweler to create a unique shaped diamond that resembles the mouth of his beloved mistress. 

What is the Marquise Cut?

Even if the marquise cut was specifically made for the diamond, the cut trend eventually became a popular shape to emeralds, sapphires, and other precious stones. Even if the marquise cut never became popular compared to other diamond shapes when it comes to engagement rings, the cut is the perfect stone if you’re looking for a unique design and style of ring. 

Most of us probably seen the marquise cut in rings but most of them are set in more cocktail and right-hand rings rather than engagement rings. However, it’s slowly gaining popularity for being a diamond shape used for engagement rings. This is because the marquise cut delivers drama and style thanks to its 60 facets within its rounded central shape and pointed ends. You will not only get plenty of sparkles but you will also have style and sophistication. Plus, it’s unique shape makes fingers look longer and thinner. 

The Appeal of Marquise Cut Diamonds

The marquise cut’s round, pear-shaped, and almost oval style perfectly complements long and slender fingers. But as we mentioned, it can also create this effect even if you don’t have long and slender fingers thanks to its exceptional shape. 

But if it benefits your hand, it also benefits your ring because the elongated shape of the marquise cut makes it look larger than its actual carat weight. That’s why you will be able to buy a marquise cut diamond that looks bigger than a round brilliant diamond even if they have the same carat weight. That’s why this cut is popular for brides-to-be who particularly look for the size of their rings. 

How Much Does it Cost?

Just like any other fancy shapes, the marquise cut tends to cost less than the round brilliant cut diamond that has the same carat weight. This is because marquise diamonds also use the long shape of rough diamonds very well. They are great at distributing the carat weight in the tips of the diamond that’s why it looks larger compared the cushion cut or princess cut. That’s why a 1-carat marquise diamond will be about 10.5 x 5mm compared to a 1 carat round cut diamond which will only be about 6.4 mm. A 1-carat marquise cut diamond typically cost around four thousand dollars.

Things to Look for When Purchasing a Marquise Cut Diamond

Here are a few things that you should consider if you’re going to buy a marquise cut:

  •   Be keen for chips – Since the marquise cut has a long, narrow shape and sharp pointed ends, they are often prone to chipping of they are not protected properly by their setting. That’s why it is best if they are protected by claws or prongs to keep their corners safe. The most secured prongs are usually the V-end of V-tip. 
  •   Watch out for the Bow Tie Effect – Because of their narrow shape, some marquise cut diamonds can produce an area that has a reduced color in the center of the diamond which sometimes looks like a bow tie. Almost all fancy-shaped diamond create a bow-tie effect, however, a well-cut diamond can hide that effect with the brilliance of its facets. 
  • Consider a different approach on color – Because of the marquise cut’s antique history, most buyers prefer them with a slight hint of color on them such as I-J graded diamonds rather than considering colorless diamonds. 
  •   Take note of its symmetry – The two pointed ends of a marquise cut diamond must be aligned perfectly with one another. Even the smallest imperfection of the symmetrical element of a marquise cut will have a great effect on the balance of your ring.