The Story of the Marquise

The Marquise diamond is one of the most underrated shapes in the damond world.  Also known as the football, or the boat cut, eye cut or even the navette shape, this classic has one of the largest crown surfaces of any diamond cut, which makes it a great choice to maximize perceived size. And much like it's trendy cousin the oval diamond it does wonders to elongate the finger, making it appearl longer and more slim. 

But do you know how the Marquise got it's name? The cuts origin dates back to King Louis XV of France (1710-1774) In a saucy twist of fate it was comissoned to resemble the shape of his mistresses lips. Jean Antoninette Poisson the Marchioness Madame de Pompadour. The Marquiss of Pompadour was thought to have the most perfect lips the King had ever seen.

Because of it's enlongated shape it is important to know a few things when looking for the perfect stone for you. 

1. Watch for good symmetry- the elongated shape needs to have the two points at either end align perfectly. A small mistep in this can give it a widely unbalanced look. 
2. Be on the look out for Chips- since the ends each come to a sharp point, they can be prone to chips, be sure that in whatever mounting you choose they are appropriately protected. 
3. Beware of the Bowtie- in the elongated shapes a space near the widest portion is often referred to as the "bowtie" It is a space in the center that can have reduced color, which creates a bowtie effect. A well cut version of this stunning stone will hide that effect.  

 Take a look at some of our favorites in the store right now! marquise diamond engagement ring