The marquise cut is an elegant, unique and stylish diamond cut. The shape of the marquise cut diamond is elliptical, with tapered sides reaching a point either end. The marquise cut boasts 58 sparkling facets, making it an ideal choice for a diamond engagement ring, cocktail ring, diamond earrings or setting into diamond jewellery. The marquise cut is also referred to as the ‘navette cut,’ deriving from the French for ‘little ship.’ The British Diamond Company offers a selection of HRD, IGI and GIA certified marquise cut diamonds.
The marquise cut’s origins can be traced back to 18th century France. In the 1740s, Louis XV of France commissioned a diamond cut to resemble his lover, Madame la Marquise de Pompadours’ lips. The marquise cut was born. In the years following the diamond’s creation, it was named the Marquise. This name referred to a rank below a duke. Individuals of prestigious status would wear marquise cut diamonds to demonstrate their social standing.
The marquise cut of the 18th century was developed in the 20th century in order to maximize brilliance, fire and scintillation. The modern marquise cut is referred to as the marquise brilliant cut. The marquise cut saw a rise in popularity from the 1960s onwards and is now a popular choice for diamond engagement rings, earrings and other diamond jewellery.
Not only do marquise cut diamonds have a remarkable shape, they also have the largest crown facet area of all the cuts. This important feature makes the marquise cut appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight, as less weight is retained in the pavilion facets and more is shown in the crown and table facet. The elongated appearance of the cut is also highly flattering, when worn vertically on a ring, it gives the wearer slender fingers.
Contact our team of diamond jewellery specialists for more advice on diamond cuts. Buy marquise cut diamond engagement rings and jewellery online with 0% interest free finance and free UK delivery. Call us on 01335 453 453 or email us at sales@britishdiamondcompany.com.