A marquise natural diamond is a captivating and distinctive diamond cut known for its elongated, elliptical shape with pointed ends. Often referred to as the “navette” (French for “little boat”) cut, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern elegance.
Here’s a comprehensive look at marquise natural diamonds:
History and Origin
The marquise cut has a romantic and regal history, dating back to 18th-century France. Legend has it that King Louis XV commissioned a court jeweler to create a diamond shape that resembled the perfectly shaped lips of his mistress, Madame de Pompadour, who held the title of Marquise. This aristocratic origin gives the marquise cut a sense of timeless allure and sophistication.
Characteristics of a Marquise Natural Diamond
* Shape: The defining feature is its elongated oval shape with two symmetrical, pointed ends. This creates a striking and distinctive silhouette.
* Faceting: Marquise diamonds typically have 58 facets, similar to a round brilliant cut. This brilliant-style faceting allows for excellent light reflection and a dazzling sparkle.
* Appearance of Size: Due to its elongated shape, a marquise diamond appears larger than other diamond cuts of the same carat weight. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a diamond that maximizes its visual impact.
* Finger Elongation: When worn as a ring, the elongated shape of a marquise diamond creates the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, a highly desirable aesthetic.
* Bow-Tie Effect: Like other elongated diamond shapes (such as oval and pear cuts), marquise diamonds can exhibit a “bow-tie effect.” This refers to a dark area that can appear across the center of the diamond where light is not reflected back to the eye. While a slight bow-tie is considered normal and even part of the diamond’s character, a severe or very dark bow-tie is undesirable. A well-cut marquise diamond will minimize this effect.
* Vulnerable Points: The pointed ends of a marquise diamond are more susceptible to chipping or snagging. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a setting that adequately protects these delicate tips, such as a bezel setting or v-prongs.
* Color Visibility: The marquise cut can sometimes show the natural color of a diamond more than other shapes. If a diamond has a yellowish or brownish tint, it might be more noticeable in a marquise cut. Therefore, prioritizing color grade can be important for this shape.
Why Choose a Marquise Natural Diamond?
* Unique and Eye-Catching: Its distinct shape sets it apart from more common cuts like round or princess.
* Appears Larger: Get more visual impact for your carat weight.
* Flattering on the Hand: Creates an elegant and elongated look on the finger.
* Historical and Romantic Appeal: Its rich history adds a layer of charm and sentiment.
* Versatile Setting Options: Can be set vertically (north-south) for a classic look, or horizontally (east-west) for a more contemporary style. They also make excellent accent stones.
Considerations When Buying
When selecting a marquise natural diamond, consider the following:
* Cut Quality: This is paramount to a marquise diamond’s brilliance and to minimize the bow-tie effect. Look for a well-proportioned stone with excellent polish and symmetry.
* Length-to-Width Ratio: This ratio affects the overall look of the marquise. Common preferred ratios range from 1.85 to 2.00, but personal preference plays a significant role. A higher ratio will result in a longer, more slender diamond, while a lower ratio will make it appear wider.
* Clarity: As with any diamond, clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes. While the brilliant faceting can help mask some minor inclusions, it’s still advisable to choose a stone that is “eye-clean” (meaning no inclusions are visible to the naked eye).
* Color: As mentioned, the marquise cut can reveal color more readily. Opt for a color grade that appears colorless or near-colorless to your eye.
Marquise Natural Diamond Engagement Rings
Marquise diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings, offering a unique and elegant statement. They look stunning in various settings, including:
* Solitaire settings: To highlight the diamond’s unique shape.
* Halo settings: To enhance its size and sparkle.
* Three-stone rings: With complementary side stones.
* Vintage-inspired designs: Which often complement the marquise’s historical roots.
A marquise natural diamond is a beautiful and distinguished choice for those seeking a diamond with character, brilliance, and a rich history. Its elongated shape makes it appear larger and flatters the hand, making it a truly captivating gemstone.
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