If you’re looking to shine with a diamond cut that stands out, the marquise cut is the one for you. Named after the stone fashioned by King Louis XIV to the Marquise of Pompadour after what he considered her perfect shaped mouth, the marquise is a modified brilliant-cut.
Marquise cut diamonds are long and narrow, with one of the largest crown surface areas of any diamond shape; therefore, they create the illusion of being bigger than they actually are. In other words, if you want a larger-looking diamond for the same carat weight, opt for the marquise cut. It has the added value of lending a slimmer, longer look to the finger which wears it.
According to the GIA, a length to width ratio of 1.75 to 2.15 is considered the classic marquise cut. A marquise ratio of less than 1.50 may appear too short and wide, while a ratio over 2.50 may cause the marquise to lose its brilliance. Excellent or very good symmetry is highly recommended in this cut, since even a slight misalignment of the two end points can result, according to the GIA, in an off kilter look in the final setting.
Another point to consider is sharp edges and pointed ends, which can increase the risk of damage. Color and clarity choices are subjective in marquise cut diamonds, yet it is worthwhile to remember that the prominence of the cut makes both color and clarity more apparent.
