Marquise Cut Diamond

What is Marquise Cut Diamond?

The marquise cut diamond is the ultimate expression of love and affection. Also known as the ‘navette cut’ – French for ‘little ship’ – this unique diamond shape has two pointed ends which deliver a distinct and dramatic look. Like other fancy cuts, the historic marquise cut diamond is increasingly popular among engagement rings.

History

In France, the royal rank between Count and Duke is Marquise. In the 18th century, Jeanne Antoinette Poisson, otherwise known as Madame de Pompadour, held this title in court. King Louis XV of France commissioned the royal jewellers to cut a diamond to resemble the lips of his lover, Madame de Pompadour, fashioning the ‘marquise cut’ diamond.

Worn exclusively by people attending the royal court, the marquise cut diamond was a symbol of their status. Overtime, the marquise cut has evolved into the refined shape we know as today.

Features

A marquise cut diamond offers a unique elliptical shape with pointed ends. Understanding the marquise cut is important when selecting the right diamond for your engagement ring. The different names are: “Belly” referring to the central widest area (width), the “point” is exactly that, the point on each end, and the “wing” is the curve between the belly and the point.

Ratios are another aspect to consider when shopping for your ideal marquise diamond. To keep the integrity of the diamonds cut, avoid broad shoulders, flat wings, and broad points. The average ratio of a marquise cut diamond is 1.85-2.20.

The elongated shape of the marquise cut is favoured by those who desire a unique diamond with a point of difference. As an added bonus, the marquise cut diamond cleverly creates the illusion of a larger stone which allows the buyer the opportunity to select a rarer and higher quality diamond within the same budget.

What is the best way to set a marquise diamond?

The pointed ends of a marquise diamond can be prone to damage when unprotected. Therefore, we recommend setting the marquise diamond engagement ring with V shaped claws that follow the refined shape of the diamond. These claws offer the protection and structural integrity the diamond requires without taking away from its beauty.

How is a marquise diamond cut?

A marquise diamond can be cut with either four, six or eight pavilion facets (bottom half of the diamond). The number of pavilion facets gives you a good understanding of the diamond's light performance. At Janai, we source marquise diamonds with 8 pavilion facets so we can guarantee optimal light performance from our diamonds.

Can a marquise cut diamond have a bowtie?

Yes. A bowtie is a dark bow-like shape through the centre of a diamond and like all elongated shapes, a marquise cut diamond is susceptible to a bowtie effect when cut poorly. The craftsmanship behind a marquise cut diamond is of such high importance as misaligned facets can create this bowtie effect.

(left) An example of a marquise cut diamond with no bowtie effect. (right) An example of a marquise cut diamond with a bowtie effect.

Conclusion

When selecting an engagement ring, it is important to consider the craftsmanship of not only the ring but the diamond itself. This can make a considerable difference in the light performance and quality of the diamond regardless of the 4 C’s gradings.

At Janai, we will take the utmost care to provide you the knowledge to confidently select a diamond with premium craftsmanship, but also the promise of flawless aftercare service including lifetime complimentary cleaning and inspection. Visit our Marquise Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

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