Marquise cut diamonds are shaped like a football and are essentially modified brilliant cut diamonds. The most popular shaped brilliant cut diamond is the round brilliant, and there are several shapes of modified brilliant cut diamonds, which include pear, heart, and oval diamonds. This interesting shape name comes from Marquise of Pompadour, for whom a diamond was fashioned by King Louis XIV, based on the shape of her supposedly perfectly shaped lips. Because marquise diamonds are so long and thin, they give off a large and impressive impression. This diamond shape is especially suitable for those looking to elongate their fingers.
Here are some things to consider when looking at a marquise diamond.
The Bow-Tie Effect
Known as the bow-tie effect, a dark patch or spot may appear somewhere in the stone, and it can only be detected visually. The effect is not noted in the certification of the diamond, and can vary from practically invisible to severe, which much harder to tell if you are buying it online. We advise you to inspect the diamond personally before purchasing a diamond to ensure your diamond doesn't have such dark patches.
Symmetry
When it comes to marquise diamonds, the symmetry is of great importance. The two points of the diamond should be aligned with one another. Similarly, each rounded side should mirror each other. Even if the symmetry is slightly off it can have a significant effect on the diamond as a whole.
Setting
A marquise cut diamond should be set with prongs on either point of the diamond in order to protect it from being chipped as well as to conceal any flaw that may be hiding on the edges. Since the points are closest to the rough stone from which the diamond was cut, there is a high chance that there are extra facets or other inclusions that the prongs can cover.
Color
Generally speaking, diamond buyers tend to get as closed to a D grade in color as possible. With marquise diamonds, the differences can be so slight that if it weren’t for the actual grade one would not know any better. People actually prefer the warmer colors rather than the brighter colors. At the same time, since diamond color in marquise diamonds tends to get darker toward the points, many opt for the next color grade in order for the diamond not to be too dark.
As one of the more unusual shapes, the marquise cut makes a unique and special diamond shape for rings or any other jewelry piece. Make sure you choose a stone carefully so you can get the most from your diamond.