The marquise cut diamond is an exquisite and bold gemstone with an unmistakably elongated shape that embodies luxury and sophistication. Its distinctive pointed ends and curved sides create a stunning visual, enhancing the diamond’s apparent size.

The marquise cut maximizes brilliance and fire, much like the round brilliant cut, but with the added benefit of an elongated form that gives the stone a dramatic, eye-catching appeal. Whether used as a centerpiece or in a multi-stone setting, the marquise cut is a perfect choice for those seeking a glamorous and timeless diamond shape.

History of the Marquise Cut Diamond

The marquise cut has a fascinating history dating back to the 18th century. It was commissioned by King Louis XV of France, who wanted a diamond shape that resembled the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. The shape was designed to honor her elegance and beauty.

The marquise cut was a symbol of royal sophistication and grandeur for centuries, and over time, its appeal grew beyond royal circles. Today, it remains a favorite for those seeking a vintage-inspired yet distinctly luxurious look in their engagement rings, earrings, or necklaces.

Marquise Cut Diamond Characteristics

Cut

The marquise cut diamond is designed with 58 facets, similar to the round brilliant cut, which allows it to exhibit exceptional sparkle. The sharp points and smooth curves of the diamond enable light to reflect and refract beautifully. Its unique shape allows for impressive visual impact, especially when placed in a well-crafted setting. The precision of the cut is essential for enhancing the stone’s brilliance, and even slight variations in the cut can have a significant effect on the diamond's overall appearance.

Length to Width Ratio

One of the most important features of the marquise cut is its length-to-width ratio. This ratio can range from 1.75 to 2.25, with 2.00 being the most popular and visually balanced choice. The ideal length-to-width ratio enhances the diamond's dramatic, elongated silhouette, creating the illusion of a larger stone while maintaining a slender and elegant profile. The shape of the marquise cut often makes fingers appear longer and slimmer, making it a flattering choice for many.

Color

Marquise cut diamonds are graded for color just like other diamond shapes, with the scale ranging from D (colorless) to Z (tinted yellow or brown). Because of its elongated shape, the marquise cut tends to hide any color tints, especially at its pointed ends.

This makes it a great option for those who desire a high-color-grade diamond without the premium price tag of a completely colorless stone. For the best visual appeal, marquise diamonds in the D-G color range are ideal.

Clarity

Clarity is crucial for marquise cut diamonds due to the large surface area and sharp points. Inclusions and blemishes may be more noticeable in these areas, especially along the points. For an eye-clean diamond, it’s recommended to opt for a clarity grade of VS2 or better. This ensures that the brilliance of the diamond is not compromised by visible imperfections. A high-quality marquise cut with excellent clarity will dazzle with its fiery sparkle and clean surface.

Why is the Marquise Cut So Popular?

The marquise cut is beloved for its striking appearance, which offers a sense of elegance and drama. Its shape is inherently unique and stands out in both classic and contemporary jewelry designs. Whether you are looking for an engagement ring, a statement necklace, or stunning earrings, the marquise cut is a versatile and captivating choice.

Vintage Appeal with Modern Versatility

The marquise cut has a timeless, vintage feel, making it perfect for those who love antique-inspired styles. At the same time, its elongated form allows for modern interpretations, with various ways to incorporate the shape into different settings. Whether paired with halo designs or in a more minimalist setting, the marquise cut’s beauty remains as relevant today as it was in its royal origins.

Attention-Grabbing and Unique

The marquise shape is immediately recognizable and creates an air of sophistication. Its striking silhouette, with sharp points and smooth curves, gives it a dramatic flair. For those who want to stand out from the crowd and own a piece of jewelry that is both bold and elegant, the marquise cut is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make a statement while still maintaining a sense of timeless charm.

Symbolism

Like other diamond shapes, the marquise cut is rich with symbolism. Its elongated form can symbolize the pursuit of greatness, with its sleek lines representing strength, grace, and beauty. The pointed ends are often seen as a representation of direction and purpose. The marquise shape is also linked with royalty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a symbol of luxury, power, and enduring love.

Marquise Cut Diamond Pricing

The price of a marquise cut diamond can vary depending on factors such as carat weight, color, clarity, and cut quality. Generally, marquise cut diamonds are more affordable than round brilliant diamonds of similar size due to their efficient use of the diamond rough, minimizing waste during the cutting process. While still a luxurious option, the marquise cut offers a more budget-friendly choice for those who want a large, dazzling stone at a lower cost than a round diamond of the same carat weight.

Why is the Marquise Cut Diamond More Affordable than a Round Cut?

The marquise cut tends to be more affordable than the round brilliant cut primarily because it allows for greater utilization of the diamond rough. Round diamonds often have more material waste during the cutting process, which drives up the cost. On the other hand, marquise diamonds can be cut from larger rough stones with less waste, which makes them a more budget-friendly alternative while still maintaining high levels of brilliance and beauty.

If you’re ready to find the perfect marquise cut diamond, we are here to help you discover the ideal stone. Explore our collection of marquise cut diamonds, expertly crafted for maximum brilliance and beauty. Contact us today to begin your journey toward owning a breathtaking marquise diamond!