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The marquise is an elongated shape with two pointed ends — and it has the largest face-up size per carat of any diamond cut, so it looks the biggest for its weight. Regal, dramatic and finger-lengthening, it is a confident choice. Here is how to choose one well.
Key takeaways
- The marquise looks the largest per carat of any shape — maximum visible size.
- It elongates and slims the finger dramatically.
- It can show a bow-tie, so choose one cut to minimise it.
- The flattering ratio is roughly 1.85–2.10.
- Its two points should be protected with V-prongs.
What is a marquise cut?
The marquise (or ‘navette’, French for little boat) is a brilliant cut stretched into a slim oval with pointed ends. The story goes it was commissioned in 18th-century France to echo a courtier's smile. Its long, narrow outline spreads weight across a large surface, which is the secret to its size advantage.
Why it looks the biggest
Because a marquise is long and shallow in outline, it presents more face-up area per carat than any other shape — a marquise can look noticeably larger than a round of the same weight. For maximum presence and a finger-lengthening line, nothing beats it. It suits a brand built on visible scale.
Every centre diamond is Triple Excellent, D–E, VVS and at least three carats — the hard calls are made for you.
Design your ringThe bow-tie and the ratio
Like ovals and pears, marquises can show a bow-tie — a shadow across the centre — and being the most elongated, getting the cut right matters. A well-cut marquise keeps it faint; Montare hand-selects for this. For proportions, most prefer a 1.85 to 2.10 ratio: the classic slim silhouette without looking too narrow or too wide.
Protecting the points
A marquise has two vulnerable points. Both should be cradled by V-prongs — small metal claws shaped like a V — to protect the tips from chips and hold the stone securely. It is a small detail that protects a lifetime of wear.
The best settings for a marquise
A solitaire with V-prongs celebrates the silhouette; a hidden halo adds sparkle; an east-west setting (turned on its side) gives a modern twist. See our guide to settings and compare shapes in our visual guide.
Marquises and the Montare standard
As with any brilliant, cut makes the marquise — see why Triple Excellent matters. Every Montare marquise is lab-grown, D–E colour, VVS1–VVS2 clarity, Triple Excellent, three carats minimum, IGI certified, hand-picked for symmetry and a soft bow-tie. Design one in the ring builder or book a consultation.
Every Montare marquise is hand-selected and set to one fixed standard — D–E colour, VVS clarity, Triple Excellent cut, three carats minimum, IGI certified.
See marquise rings →Frequently asked questions
Do marquise diamonds look bigger?
Yes — the marquise has the largest face-up area per carat of any shape, so it looks the biggest for its weight and elongates the finger.
Which way do you wear a marquise ring?
Lengthwise along the finger, points toward the knuckle and nail, for the most flattering, finger-lengthening effect.
Do marquise diamonds have a bow-tie?
They can, like other elongated brilliants. A well-cut marquise keeps it faint; Montare hand-selects to minimise it.
What is the best ratio for a marquise?
Most people prefer about 1.85 to 2.10 for a classic, elegant silhouette.
See a marquise to standard. Build one in the ring builder or book a consultation.
The Montare standard
Lab-grown · D–E colour · VVS clarity · Triple Excellent · 3ct minimum · IGI certified
Every ring is made to order in Toronto and backed by our lifetime setting upgrade, with free, fully insured shipping.
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