Marquise Diamond Meaning: Symbolism, Style, and History

The marquise diamond is known for its unique shape and rich background. It has been a popular choice in jewellery for centuries, especially in engagement rings. The marquise cut stands out with its long, narrow body and pointed ends. This article will explain the meaning, style, and history of the marquise diamond in simple words.

What Is a Marquise Diamond?

A marquise diamond has an oval shape with two pointed ends. It is also called the navette cut, which means “little boat” in French. This is because its shape looks like a boat. The cut is known for making the fingers appear longer and more slender when worn in a ring.

The marquise cut usually has 56 or 58 facets. These are the small surfaces that reflect light and make the diamond sparkle. The shape allows for a large surface area, which can make the diamond look bigger than it is.

Image Source: Sotheby’s

The History of the Marquise Diamond

The marquise diamond dates back to the 18th century in France. King Louis XV asked for a diamond to be shaped like the lips of his mistress, Madame de Pompadour. The result was the marquise cut.

The shape became popular among royals and noble families. Over time, it spread to other parts of Europe and later to the rest of the world. It became especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s and is still chosen today by people who want something different from the classic round cut.

What the Marquise Diamond Symbolises

The marquise diamond holds different meanings for different people. Here are some common symbols connected to this shape:

• Elegance and style: The long, narrow shape gives a graceful look

• Royalty and class: It has a rich history and was first made for a king

• Individuality: It is less common than other cuts, so it shows uniqueness

• Creativity: The pointed ends and bold design often attract creative minds

• Romance: Since it was inspired by a love story, it is seen as romantic

When used in an engagement ring, the marquise cut can show that the person values tradition but also likes to stand out.

Style and Appearance

The marquise diamond is perfect for those who want a dramatic look. It can be used in many types of jewellery but is most often seen in:

• Engagement rings

• Necklaces

• Earrings

• Bracelets

The shape can be set in various ways. Some popular settings include:

• Solitaire: One marquise diamond in a simple band

• Halo: A circle of small diamonds around the marquise stone

• Three-stone: A marquise diamond in the centre with two smaller stones on the sides

• Vintage: Old-style designs that highlight the cut’s royal background

This cut also pairs well with different metals, such as white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum.

Pros and Cons of Marquise Diamonds

Before choosing a marquise diamond, it is good to know the benefits and possible drawbacks.

Pros:

• The shape makes the diamond look bigger

• It creates a slimming effect on the fingers

• It stands out due to its unique shape

• Often more affordable per carat than round diamonds

Cons:

• The pointed ends can chip if not protected by the setting

• It may show flaws more easily if the cut is not done well

• Needs proper alignment to avoid looking crooked

Tips for Choosing a Marquise Diamond

If you are thinking of buying a marquise diamond, here are some tips to help you choose:

• Look for symmetry: Both sides should be even, and the points should line up

• Check the bow-tie effect: A dark area in the middle may appear if the cut is poor

• Protect the tips: Use prongs or a bezel setting to avoid chipping

• Try it on: See how it looks on your hand, as the shape can appear different depending on finger length

Who chooses a Marquise Cut?

A marquise diamond is a good choice for someone who wants something special. It suits people who like bold designs and have a strong sense of style. It can also be a great choice for those who want a diamond that looks bigger without a high price tag.

People who enjoy vintage or royal-inspired jewellery often prefer the marquise cut. It also appeals to those who want their ring to reflect both romance and uniqueness.

Conclusion

The marquise diamond is more than just a pretty shape. It has a rich history, strong symbolism, and a stylish look that continues to attract attention. Whether used in an engagement ring or another piece of jewellery, it offers something unique and timeless.

With the right setting and care, a marquise diamond can be a beautiful and meaningful choice. If you are looking for a diamond that tells a story and stands out, the marquise cut may be the perfect option for you.