Diamond Basics
Marquise Cut Diamonds: Maximising Apparent Size
The marquise is a long, pointed-oval shape that can make a diamond's carat weight look larger than almost any other cut.
Elongated geometry
With two pointed ends and a wide centre, marquise diamonds maximise length for a given carat weight, often giving the largest visual footprint per carat of any standard shape.
Bow-tie and point protection
Like other elongated shapes, marquises can show a bow-tie shadow, and both pointed tips need protective prongs to resist chipping over years of wear.
Historic origins
The shape is said to date to 18th-century France, where it was reportedly cut to resemble the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour — a charming story, though its exact origin is debated among historians.
Buyer checklist
- ✓ Check both tips for symmetry and chip protection
- ✓ View for bow-tie severity under normal lighting
- ✓ Compare length-to-width ratio to personal preference
Verification tools & references
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