Table of Contents
- Introduction to marquise cut diamond
- Facts table -marquise cut diamond
- History
- Unique Characteristics
- Cut Quality
- Popular settings that go well with marquise cut diamond
- Buying a marquise cut diamond?
- Marquise cut diamond celebrity rings
- Care and maintenance
- Frequently asked questions
- How much does a marquise cut diamond cost?
- Is a marquise cut diamond a good choice for an engagement ring?
Introduction to marquise cut diamond
The marquise cut diamond, also known as the “navette” or “boat-shaped” diamond, is a type of diamond cut that is characterized by its elongated and pointed shape. The cut was developed in the 18th century and was reportedly inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV of France.
Marquise cut diamonds are known for their unique and elegant shape, which can make fingers appear longer and more slender. The cut also has the illusion of making the diamond appear larger in size, as it has a larger surface area compared to other cuts of the same weight.
When choosing a marquise cut diamond, it is important to consider the quality of the cut, as a well-cut marquise diamond will have maximum brilliance and fire. It is also important to consider the diamond’s length-to-width ratio, as a ratio of 2:1 is considered ideal, although personal preference plays a role as well. The setting of the diamond is also important, as the elongated shape of a marquise diamond can make it more prone to chipping. Proper care and protection of the diamond, such as handling it with care and storing it separately from other jewelry, can help to ensure its longevity.
Facts table -marquise cut diamond
Here is a table of facts about marquise cut diamonds:
Fact | Description |
History | The marquise cut diamond was developed in the 18th century and was reportedly inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV of France. |
Characteristics | Marquise cut diamonds are known for their unique and elongated shape, which can make fingers appear longer and more slender. They also have a larger surface area compared to other cuts of the same weight, which can give the illusion of a larger size. |
Quality of the cut | It is important to choose a well-cut marquise diamond in order to maximize the brilliance and fire of the stone. |
Length-to-width ratio | A ratio of 2:1 is considered ideal for a marquise cut diamond, although personal preference plays a role as well. |
Setting | The elongated shape of a marquise diamond can make it more prone to chipping, so it’s important to choose a setting that will protect the stone. |
Care and protection | Proper care and protection of a marquise cut diamond, such as handling it with care and storing it separately from other jewelry, can help to ensure its longevity. |
History
The marquise cut diamond, also known as the “navette” or “boat-shaped” diamond, is a type of diamond cut that is characterized by its elongated and pointed shape. The cut was developed in the 18th century and was reportedly inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV of France.
The Marquise de Pompadour was known for her love of diamonds and jewelry, and it is said that King Louis XV commissioned a diamond cutter to create a cut that would resemble her smile. The resulting cut was named the “marquise” in her honor.
The marquise cut became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries and has remained a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry. Today, it is one of the most recognizable diamond cuts, known for its unique and elegant shape.
Unique Characteristics
Marquise cut diamonds are known for their unique and elongated shape, which can make fingers appear longer and more slender. The cut is also characterized by its pointed ends, which can give the diamond a more refined and sophisticated appearance.
One of the most striking characteristics of marquise cut diamonds is their large surface area, which can make the diamond appear larger in size compared to other cuts of the same weight. This can be a particularly appealing characteristic for those who want a larger diamond but may not have the budget for a higher carat weight.
In terms of the overall appearance of a marquise cut diamond, the quality of the cut is extremely important. A well-cut marquise diamond will have maximum brilliance and fire, which can enhance the overall beauty and sparkle of the stone. On the other hand, a poorly cut marquise diamond may lack luster and have a less attractive appearance.
Cut Quality
The quality of the cut is an important factor to consider when choosing a marquise cut diamond. A well-cut marquise diamond will have maximum brilliance and fire, which can enhance the overall beauty and sparkle of the stone.
There are several factors that affect the quality of the cut in a marquise diamond:
- Symmetry: The shape and alignment of the diamond’s facets should be symmetrical, which can help to maximize the diamond’s sparkle and overall appeal.
- Proportions: The size and placement of the diamond’s facets should be balanced in order to maximize the diamond’s light performance.
- Polish: The surface of the diamond should be smooth and free of blemishes or scratches, which can affect the diamond’s overall appearance and brightness.
- Depth: The depth of the diamond should be appropriate for the shape of the cut, as a diamond that is too deep or too shallow may lack luster and sparkle.
Popular settings that go well with marquise cut diamond
There are many different setting options for marquise cut diamonds, and the best choice will depend on personal style and preferences. Some popular setting options for marquise cut diamonds include:
- Prong setting: In a prong setting, the diamond is held in place by a series of prongs that are attached to the ring’s band. This setting allows for maximum light to enter the diamond and can showcase the diamond’s unique shape.
- Bezel setting: In a bezel setting, the diamond is encased in a metal rim that wraps around the diamond’s edge. This setting provides extra protection for the diamond, as it is less prone to chipping or damage compared to other setting styles.
- Halo setting: In a halo setting, the marquise diamond is surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds, which can enhance the overall sparkle and brightness of the ring.
- Pave setting: In a pave setting, the diamond is surrounded by a series of small diamonds that are set closely together in the band. This setting can create a continuous sparkle around the diamond and can be a good choice for those who want a more subtle, understated look.
Buying a marquise cut diamond?
When shopping for a marquise cut diamond, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money:
- Quality of the cut: As mentioned earlier, the quality of the cut is extremely important when it comes to the appearance of a marquise cut diamond. Choose a diamond that has been cut to the highest quality standards in order to maximize the beauty and value of the stone.
- Length-to-width ratio: The length-to-width ratio of a marquise cut diamond refers to the ratio of the diamond’s length to its width. A ratio of 2:1 is considered ideal, although personal preference plays a role as well. Choose a ratio that best suits your personal style and preferences.
- Clarity and color: In general, it is best to choose a marquise cut diamond that has a high clarity grade and a color grade of “G” or higher. This will ensure that the diamond is free of inclusions and has a bright, white appearance.
- Certification: It is important to choose a marquise cut diamond that has been certified by a reputable organization, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This will ensure that the diamond has been independently graded and is of high quality.
Marquise cut diamond celebrity rings
There are many celebrities who have chosen marquise cut diamonds for their engagement rings. Here are a few examples:
- Jennifer Aniston: The actress received a stunning marquise cut diamond ring from her ex-husband Justin Theroux in 2012. The ring, which is estimated to be worth around $500,000, features a 7-carat diamond set in a simple gold band.
- Kim Kardashian: Kim Kardashian received a 20-carat marquise cut diamond ring from her husband Kanye West in 2013. The ring, which is estimated to be worth around $7.5 million, features a sparkling diamond set in a platinum band.
- Princess Diana: The late Princess Diana received a stunning 18-carat blue sapphire and diamond ring from Prince Charles when he proposed in 1981. The ring features a marquise cut diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, and is now worn by Princess Kate, Duchess of Cambridge.
- Angelina Jolie: Actress Angelina Jolie received a stunning marquise cut diamond ring from her ex-husband Brad Pitt in 2012. The ring, which is estimated to be worth around $500,000, features a stunning diamond set in a simple gold band.
Care and maintenance
Here are a few tips for caring for a marquise cut diamond:
- Handle the diamond with care: Avoid knocking or hitting the diamond against hard surfaces, as this can cause damage to the stone or the setting.
- Clean the diamond regularly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the diamond, or bring it to a professional jeweler for cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the diamond or the setting.
- Protect the diamond: Store the diamond separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches, and consider insuring the diamond to protect it against loss or damage.
- Have the diamond checked regularly: It is a good idea to have the diamond checked by a professional jeweler on a regular basis to ensure that the setting is secure and that the diamond has not sustained any damage.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few frequently asked questions about marquise cut diamonds:
How much does a marquise cut diamond cost?
The cost of a marquise cut diamond can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the diamond, the quality of the cut, the clarity and color grades, and the setting. In general, marquise cut diamonds tend to be less expensive than round cut diamonds of the same weight and quality, but the cost can still vary widely. It is best to shop around and compare prices from different retailers in order to find the best value for your money.
Is a marquise cut diamond a good choice for an engagement ring?
Marquise cut diamonds can be a good choice for an engagement ring, as they have a unique and elegant shape that is perfect for showcasing the diamond. The elongated shape of the cut can also make fingers appear longer and more slender. However, it is important to consider the quality of the cut and the setting when choosing a marquise cut diamond for an engagement ring, as the elongated shape of the diamond can make it more prone to chipping.
What is the ideal length-to-width ratio for a marquise cut diamond?
The ideal length-to-width ratio for a marquise cut diamond is a ratio of 2:1. This ratio is considered to be the most aesthetically pleasing and allows for the diamond to have a balanced and elegant appearance. However, personal preference plays a role as well, so choose a ratio that best suits your personal style and preferences.
Is a marquise cut diamond more fragile than other diamond cuts?
The elongated shape of a marquise cut diamond can make it more prone to chipping compared to other diamond cuts. It is important to choose a setting that will protect the diamond and handle the diamond with care in order to minimize the risk of damage.
Can a marquise cut diamond be worn every day?
Marquise cut diamonds can be worn every day, but it is important to choose a setting that is suitable for everyday wear. Prong and bezel settings are generally more durable and can withstand everyday wear better than other setting styles. It is also a good idea to store the diamond separately from other jewelry and handle it with care in order to minimize the risk of damage.
Can a marquise cut diamond be resized?
Marquise cut diamonds can be resized, but it is generally more difficult to resize a marquise cut diamond compared to other diamond cuts. The elongated shape of the diamond means that there is more metal to work with, which can make the resizing process more complex. It is best to have a marquise cut diamond resized by a professional jeweler who has experience with this type of cut.