Diamonds and Cut: A Guide to the Marquise Shape by Labriana
At Labriana, we celebrate the distinctive elegance of the marquise cut, a diamond shape that exudes sophistication and grandeur. With its elongated, pointed design, the marquise cut combines timeless beauty with a dramatic flair, making it a standout choice for those seeking something truly unique.
What is a Marquise-Cut Diamond?
The marquise cut, also known as the navette cut, features an elongated oval shape with pointed ends. Its unique silhouette creates an eye-catching appearance, often associated with royal and vintage styles. This cut is renowned for its ability to maximize carat weight, creating the illusion of a larger stone.
Key Features of a Marquise-Cut Diamond
- Distinctive Shape: The marquise’s elongated form with sharp points is bold and elegant, creating a striking visual impact.
- Brilliant Faceting: Typically featuring 58 facets, the marquise cut offers excellent brilliance and fire, similar to the round brilliant cut.
- Size Advantage: Its shape maximizes surface area, making the diamond appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.
Evaluating a Marquise-Cut Diamond
To select the perfect marquise-cut diamond, consider these important factors:
- Symmetry: Balance is essential in a marquise diamond. Both ends should be evenly pointed, and the sides should curve symmetrically without flat areas or unevenness.
- Length-to-Width Ratio: Ratios between 1.75 and 2.25 are most common, with personal preference dictating the desired level of elongation.
- Bow-Tie Effect: Like other elongated cuts, marquise diamonds may exhibit a bow-tie effect (a shadowed area across the center). Look for a stone with a subtle or minimized bow tie for optimal light performance.
- Point Protection: The pointed ends of a marquise diamond are prone to chipping. A setting that secures and protects these tips is essential.
Matching Marquise-Cut Diamonds to Settings
The marquise cut’s unique shape lends itself beautifully to a variety of settings, each enhancing its dramatic elegance:
- Solitaire Setting: A classic prong setting emphasizes the marquise’s shape and brilliance, creating a timeless look.
- Halo Setting: A halo of smaller diamonds around the marquise adds sparkle and enhances the stone’s size and prominence.
- East-West Setting: For a contemporary twist, set the marquise diamond horizontally, offering a bold and modern aesthetic.
- Three-Stone Setting: Pair the marquise diamond with side stones, such as tapered baguettes or smaller marquise diamonds, for a sophisticated and balanced design.
Certification and Assurance
At Labriana, we ensure that every marquise-cut diamond comes with a certificate from a trusted gemological laboratory. This certification provides a detailed assessment of the diamond’s cut, color, clarity, and other attributes, giving you confidence in its quality and authenticity.
Why Choose a Marquise-Cut Diamond?
The marquise cut is a perfect choice for those who appreciate elegance with a distinctive flair. Its elongated shape flatters the hand and creates a dramatic, regal appearance. Whether set in a simple solitaire or an intricate design, the marquise cut is a timeless and luxurious option.
At Labriana, we take pride in helping you discover the exceptional beauty of the marquise cut. Let us guide you in selecting a diamond that reflects your personal style and tells your unique story, with a shape as extraordinary as your most cherished moments.
