How to evaluate marquise cuts for the 4Cs
GIA grades diamonds are based on a scale of the “4Cs,” which often determines what their value will be. It’s important to consider this grading when purchasing a stone. “As with any diamond, the 4Cs—cut, colour, clarity and carat weight—are important, but cut is especially critical for marquise diamonds,” notes Gottlieb. “I pay close attention to symmetry, proportion and the overall shape. You want balanced curves and well-matched points.”
While you might be looking at the clarity grading to find the best marquise diamond, there’s some other factors to consider in the grading. “Because the shape tends to show colour more readily at the tips, I often recommend prioritising colour as well,” adds Gottlieb.
How to choose style and setting
The way you set a marquise stone can absolutely change its style. A traditional solitaire setting is a favourite for those who want to take advantage of the elegant lengthening effects of a marquise. With this setting, you can enhance it with a pavé band or halo setting. Others like going for a three-stone style with trillion-cut side stones or playing with direction in an east-west setting.
“I love our ‘Band and a Half’ setting for a marquise shape,” adds Gottlieb. “If the client wants something super unique, I love tilting it slightly. Because the points are more delicate than some other shapes, I typically recommend protective prongs or a bezel setting at the tips.”
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Photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Gottlieb