Marquise Cut
The marquise cut is a long, narrow diamond with two pointed ends, giving the largest face-up size per carat of any shape.
The marquise cut, also called the navette, is a long, narrow diamond with two tapered points at each end, like a boat or an eye. It is a brilliant-faceted shape designed to look as large as possible for its weight, and it gives the biggest face-up size per carat of any shape. Its two points need careful, protective setting.
Maximum size for the carat
Because the marquise is so elongated and spreads its weight across a long, thin outline, it presents more surface area to the eye than any other shape at a given carat weight. A one carat marquise looks notably larger face-up than a one carat round. That efficiency is its main selling point for buyers who want maximum presence for the budget.
The long shape also flatters the hand, elongating and slimming the finger, and it lends a regal, distinctive look. The name traces back to eighteenth-century France, reputedly commissioned to resemble a courtier's smile, which is part of its old-world charm.
- Elongated shape with two pointed ends
- Largest face-up size per carat of any shape
- Elongates and flatters the finger
- Brilliant facets give lively sparkle
Protecting the points and judging quality
Two points means two vulnerable spots, so a marquise should be set with V-shaped prongs guarding both tips against chipping. Confirm that protection in any marquise setting. Symmetry is critical: the two ends should align and the two sides should mirror each other, or the stone looks off-balance and can even appear to bend.
Like other fancy elongated shapes, the marquise gets no GIA cut grade and can show a bow-tie shadow across the centre, so check each stone in images for a minimal bow-tie and even light return. A length-to-width ratio around 1.85 to 2.10 gives the classic marquise proportion, and the stone should be eye-clean, particularly near the exposed points.
- The marquise is an elongated shape with two pointed ends.
- It gives the largest face-up size per carat of any shape.
- Its long outline flatters and elongates the finger.
- Both points need V-shaped prongs to prevent chipping.
- Check symmetry and the central bow-tie, as it has no GIA cut grade.
Marquise Cut, in short.
Why does a marquise look so big?
Its long, narrow shape spreads the carat weight over a large surface, giving the biggest face-up size per carat of any shape. A one carat marquise looks much larger than a one carat round.
Are the points of a marquise fragile?
The two tips are the vulnerable spots and can chip if unprotected. Setting them with V-shaped prongs guards both points, so confirm your setting protects them.
What ratio is best for a marquise?
A length-to-width ratio around 1.85 to 2.10 gives the classic marquise look. Also check that the two ends align and the sides mirror each other for good symmetry.
Related terms
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