History
The background of the Marquise shaped diamond (aka Navette Cut diamond) is very interesting. It is believed that the Sun King, Louis the XIV wanted a diamond to be cut like the smile of his mistress, Marquise de Pompadour.
The Marquise cut resembles the shape of a football or classic style boat when viewed from above. The cutting method used for a Marquise is a "step cut" also known as a "table cut." The facets on a "step cut" are cut in steps. The crown (top portion of the stone above the girdle), pavilion (bottom portion of the stone below the girdle), and table (largest facet on a stone) are cut in rectangular facets. The Marquise is bright, clear, and has a great deal of sparkle because the facets span the length or width of the stone and decrease, as they get closer to the table.
Marquise Diamond "Cut"
The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance. A poorly cut diamond will have a dull appearance even if it has perfect color and clarity. The cut is considered one of the most important diamond characteristics by gemologists. It is based on factors that determine the light performance, dimensions, and finish of a stone.
The cut should reflect the maximum amount of light to the viewer's eye. For example, if a diamond is cut too shallow light will be lost out of the pavilion (bottom) and the diamond will lose brilliance. If the diamond is cut too deep, the light will escape through the sides and the diamond will appear dark.
Since Marquise cut diamonds are designed to maximize brilliance, you need to be sure that you are familiar with the qualities of a good cut. A Marquise diamond makes a beautiful engagement ring as a solitaire or set with other stones.
Recommendations
When buying Marquise cut diamonds, there are a few recommendations for getting the best diamond. We recommend a cut rating of Excellent or Very good.
For budget minded purchasers of Marquise cut diamonds, you should follow the minimum Cut rating of Good.
Length to width ratio and shape appeal is something to consider carefully when choosing this cut. Marquises also suffer from the "bow-tie" effect, which is a dark area across the center of an elongated cut. This is visible in all Marquise cut diamonds and should be faint and not dark.
Suggested Guidelines for Marquise Cut Diamonds
| Cut |
Excellent |
Very Good |
Good |
| Color |
D, E, F |
G, H |
I, J |
| Clarity |
IF, F, VVS1, VVS2 |
VS1, VS2 |
SI1, SI2 |
| Depth % |
56.0% - 72.0% |
52.0% - 55.9% or 72.1% - 75.0% |
48.0% - 51.9% or 75.1% - 78.0% |
| Table % |
53.0% - 57.9% |
58.0% - 61.0% |
61.1% - 62.5% |
| Girdle |
Medium |
Thin to Thick |
Very Thin to Very Thick |
| Ratio |
1.95 - 2.05:1.00 |
1.80 - 1.94 or 2.06 - 2.10:1.00 |
1.70 - 1.79 or 2.11 - 2.15:1.00 |