The marquise cut diamond, with its opulent and elongated shape, has graced the hands of the aristocracy and the stars, encapsulating both elegance and grandeur. But when it comes to choosing the right marquise diamond for that special piece of jewelry, understanding the relationship between the size in millimeters (mm) and the weight in carats is essential. This guide, developed with insights from leading gemologists, will help you navigate the marquise cut diamond size chart, providing clarity on how millimeters translate into carats.
The Marquise Diamond: A Legacy of Elegance
The marquise cut, also known as the navette cut, is distinctive for its boat-like shape: a rounded center that tapers to points at both ends. This cut is not just visually striking but also practical; it often makes the diamond appear larger than it is, thanks to its elongated shape.
Measuring Marquise Diamonds: The Intricacies of Shape and Size
When measuring a marquise diamond, the length from tip to tip and the width at its widest point are taken into account. These dimensions in millimeters are what determine the stone’s face-up area – essentially how large the diamond appears when set in a ring.
The Marquise Cut Diamond Size Chart
Below is a size chart that provides a general approximation of how the measurements in millimeters correspond to the carat weight of marquise diamonds. Remember that these figures are averages – the actual weight can differ based on the diamond’s proportions and cut quality.
| Length x Width (mm) | Approximate Carat Weight |
|---|---|
| 4 x 2 mm | 0.06 ct |
| 5 x 2.5 mm | 0.10 ct |
| 6 x 3 mm | 0.14 ct |
| 7 x 3.5 mm | 0.20 ct |
| 8 x 4 mm | 0.30 ct |
| 9 x 4.5 mm | 0.40 ct |
| 10 x 5 mm | 0.50 ct |
| 11 x 5.5 mm | 0.65 ct |
| 12 x 6 mm | 0.75 ct |
| 13 x 6.5 mm | 0.85 ct |
| 14 x 7 mm | 1.00 ct |
| 15 x 7.5 mm | 1.20 ct |
| 16 x 8 mm | 1.50 ct |
| 17 x 8.5 mm | 1.75 ct |
| 18 x 9 mm | 2.00 ct |
| 19 x 9.5 mm | 2.50 ct |
| 20 x 10 mm | 3.00 ct |
| 21 x 10.5 mm | 3.50 ct |
| 22 x 11 mm | 4.00 ct |
| 23 x 11.5 mm | 4.50 ct |
| 24 x 12 mm | 5.00 ct |
| 25 x 12.5 mm | 5.50 ct |
| 26 x 13 mm | 6.00 ct |
| 27 x 13.5 mm | 6.50 ct |
| 28 x 14 mm | 7.00 ct |
| 29 x 14.5 mm | 7.50 ct |
| 30 x 15 mm | 8.00 ct |
| 31 x 15.5 mm | 8.50 ct |
| 32 x 16 mm | 9.00 ct |
| 33 x 16.5 mm | 9.50 ct |
| 34 x 17 mm | 10.00 ct |
Understanding the Chart and Beyond
While the chart provides a helpful reference, it’s important to recognize that carat weight is not the sole indicator of value or size appearance. Two marquise diamonds with identical carat weights can appear quite different based on their cut proportions and depth.
Expert Insight
Renowned gemologist Dr. Alexandra Stone remarks, “The marquise cut is particularly sensitive to proportion and precision. Even slight variations in cut can lead to visible differences in the diamond’s balance and brilliance. It’s crucial to consider both the mm size and the cut quality when selecting a marquise diamond.”
Moreover, the length-to-width ratio is a vital consideration with marquise cuts. A classic marquise diamond will have a length-to-width ratio of approximately 2:1, which is generally considered the most balanced and aesthetically pleasing proportion.
Conclusion: Selecting Your Marquise Diamond
Choosing the right marquise diamond goes beyond just picking a carat size. It’s about finding the perfect combination of size, proportion, and beauty that fits both your style and budget. Whether it’s for an engagement ring that symbolizes a lifetime together or a personal piece to celebrate a milestone, the right marquise diamond is out there.
When you’re ready to make your choice, consult with a trusted jeweler who can show you a variety of marquise diamonds. This way, you can appreciate how different dimensions and carat weights look in person. After all, a diamond is not just a purchase—it’s a statement, an emotion, and an experience to be cherished.
