Marquise shape diamonds designed to captivate with elongated brilliance and graceful curves. A striking silhouette that commands attention with effortless sophistication.
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What is Marquise Shape Diamonds
The marquise shape diamond is a distinctive cut known for its elongated, elegant silhouette with sharp pointed ends and a smooth, rounded center. This unique shape has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was designed for King Louis XV of France. The shape was created to resemble the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, and it quickly became a symbol of sophistication and royal elegance. The marquise diamond, also known as the "navette" shape, combines the best qualities of both oval and pear-shaped diamonds, offering a brilliant display of light and an extraordinary look.
One of the defining characteristics of the marquise diamond is its ability to create the illusion of a larger stone due to its elongated form. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a diamond that appears bigger without increasing the carat weight. The marquise cut is perfect for those who desire a unique and elegant look, as its shape reflects light in multiple ways, offering superior brilliance and sparkle.
Whether set in engagement rings, necklaces, or earrings, the marquise diamond’s dramatic and timeless appeal makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to add a touch of refinement to their jewelry collection.
Why Choose Marquise Shape Diamonds
Unique and Elegant Design: The marquise diamond stands out from other cuts with its elongated, boat-like shape and sharp points. It provides a striking appearance that is perfect for those who want a distinctive, one-of-a-kind diamond that draws attention and admiration.
Illusion of Size: Thanks to its elongated shape, the marquise diamond gives the impression of a larger stone, even at lower carat weights. This is perfect for buyers who want a diamond with an impressive visual impact without paying for a higher carat weight.
Flattering and Slimming: Marquise diamonds are known for their ability to elongate and slim the appearance of fingers, making them an ideal choice for engagement rings and other pieces of jewelry worn on the hand. Their shape creates a slimming effect that enhances the wearer's overall look.
Versatile Setting Options: Marquise diamonds are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of settings and other gemstones. Whether set in a classic solitaire or surrounded by smaller diamonds, the marquise shape always looks stunning and adds an elegant touch to any jewelry piece.
Rich Historical Appeal: The marquise diamond has a storied history that adds to its allure. With origins rooted in French royalty, owning a marquise-shaped diamond allows you to carry on a piece of historical sophistication and aristocratic charm.
Increased Brilliance: The marquise shape has an inherent ability to reflect light in a spectacular way, resulting in exceptional sparkle and brilliance. Its cut, with numerous facets, ensures the diamond shines brilliantly from every angle.
Marquise Shape Diamonds VS Other Shapes
When compared to other diamond shapes, the marquise diamond stands out for its unique elongated form and sophisticated appearance. Unlike the round brilliant cut, which has a classic and universally recognized look, the marquise diamond offers an exclusive, dramatic shape that is sure to catch the eye. The marquise cut combines the best elements of both oval and pear-shaped diamonds, giving it a highly versatile style that works well in many different types of jewelry.
One of the key advantages of the marquise shape is its ability to appear larger than diamonds of the same carat weight. Its elongated shape makes it look bigger, which is especially appealing for buyers who want to maximize the visual impact of their diamond without increasing the cost associated with higher carat weights. In comparison to other fancy cuts, such as the oval or pear shape, the marquise diamond can look larger while still being a more affordable option.
When compared to square-shaped diamonds, such as the princess or radiant cuts, the marquise diamond has a more elongated form, making it ideal for those looking for a slimming effect on the fingers, which square shapes don't always provide. Marquise diamonds also tend to have a more distinctive flair, giving them an edge in uniqueness. Their sharp points create a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic that can complement other gemstones or stand alone in a solitaire setting.
Another significant difference is the sparkle factor. Marquise diamonds often exhibit exceptional brilliance because of the way light interacts with their many facets. The long, curved sides reflect light from multiple angles, producing a fiery, radiant display that can be even more dazzling than some other shapes.
How to Choose the Best
When selecting the best marquise shape diamond, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you are choosing a diamond that fits your preferences and style:
Cut Quality: The cut quality is paramount to the beauty and brilliance of the diamond. A well-cut marquise diamond will display excellent symmetry, with balanced proportions that showcase the stone's brilliance. Look for diamonds with even facets, as poor cuts can result in uneven light reflection, diminishing the diamond's sparkle.
Length-to-Width Ratio: The ideal length-to-width ratio for marquise diamonds typically ranges from 1.75 to 2.25. A higher ratio (closer to 2.25) creates a more slender and elongated look, while a lower ratio results in a wider, more rounded shape. The perfect ratio depends on personal preference and the overall look you want to achieve.
Symmetry: Pay attention to the symmetry of the marquise diamond. The points should be sharp and the curves symmetrical. If the diamond has any noticeable asymmetry, it can affect both its aesthetic appeal and its overall sparkle. A well-balanced marquise diamond will have evenly proportioned sides and perfect symmetry.
Clarity: Clarity is essential when choosing a marquise diamond because the elongated shape can make inclusions more noticeable. While it is possible to find marquise diamonds with small inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye, it is recommended to select a diamond with a higher clarity grade for a flawless appearance.
Color: For maximum sparkle and visual appeal, choose a marquise diamond with a high color grade, preferably in the G to D range. While marquise diamonds are generally less affected by color than round diamonds, choosing one with minimal color will ensure the stone reflects light beautifully, showcasing its brilliance.
Durability and Setting Protection: The pointed ends of a marquise diamond are more susceptible to damage, so it's important to choose a protective setting that shields these delicate tips. Prong settings with secure hold are often recommended to keep the diamond safe and intact.
By paying attention to these factors and working with a trusted jeweler, you can find the perfect marquise shape diamond that matches your vision and elevates your jewelry collection.
FAQ
What is the history behind marquise shape diamonds?
The marquise shape was created for King Louis XV of France to resemble the smile of his mistress, Marquise de Pompadour, which is why it’s also known as the "navette" or boat shape.
Do marquise shape diamonds look bigger?
Yes, marquise diamonds tend to look larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight due to their elongated shape, making them a popular choice for buyers looking for a visually impressive diamond.
Is the marquise diamond a good choice for engagement rings?
Yes, the marquise shape is a popular choice for engagement rings because its elongated form can make fingers appear slimmer and more elegant. It’s also a great option for those seeking something unique.
How should I care for my marquise shape diamond?
Like all diamonds, marquise diamonds should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid rough handling, as the pointed ends of marquise diamonds can be more prone to chipping if not cared for properly.
Are marquise diamonds less durable than other shapes?
Marquise diamonds are durable like all diamonds but should be handled with care. Their pointed ends are more susceptible to damage, so it’s important to choose a setting that protects the tips of the diamond.