Marquise engagement rings have an elongated shape with tapered ends that provide an elegant and classic look. The marquise style is a classic style that has begun to regain popularity. A marquise cut diamond may be less expensive than a round diamond of the same carat weight. Read on to learn about cut information, facts, pros and cons of marquise engagement rings.
WHAT IS MARQUISE CUT?
Aside from giving the stone its shape, the cut of a diamond or gemstone determines a stones brilliance. The marquise cut is an elongated oval with two pointed ends and 56 or 58 facets for maximum fire and brilliance. There are a wide range of marquise cut proportions but a 2:1 length to width ratio is ideal. The marquise cut was created in 1745, commissioned by France’s King Louis XV, and was favored by French royalty. This cut is also known as the navette cut and sometimes referred to as boat or football shaped.
Is Marquise Cut The Right Shape For You?
With a royal history, marquise cuts typically lend themselves to an antique-inspired ring, however in recent years more brides are setting them horizontally or east-west for an alternative look. Long and slender stones lend to a more angular, sharp look while wider stones look more rounded and curvy. Watch the video for more marquise cut design tips.
This cut looks noticeably larger than stones of the same carat weight in another shape because it is a shallow cut
Can hide minor flaws and some colors in diamonds
Cons
Sharp edges make this cut more vulnerable chipping, snagging or breaking if not in an appropriate setting
Most marquise diamonds have some level of the “bow-tie effect”: a dark triangles through the center that look like a bow-tie
WHO ARE MARQUISE CUT RINGS RIGHT FOR?
Marquise cut engagement rings are a good choice for those that want a unique, vintage-inspired look. If you want a lot of sparkle and a nontraditional shape, this is a good bet. Marquise are also good for those who want a lot of sparkle, and for people who want the largest looking shape for their budget. Marquise cut rings are not a good choice for those with active lifestyles or those that work with their hands or are rough on their jewelry.
Additional Resources
Halo Engagement Rings
So you’ve figured out your stone cut. Now, to halo or not to halo?