Marquise, dramatic and finger-lengthening.

How dramatic is a marquise, really?

Marquise stones read enormous for their carat weight. See true scale and how they pair with bands.

What it actually looks like

A marquise is a long oval that comes to a point at both ends. It reads dramatic on purpose — no shape wears bigger for its carat weight.

A 1ct marquise is about 10 × 5mm — the same length as a 1.5ct oval. On the finger, marquise is unmistakable and often photographs even bigger than it looks in person.

The two vulnerable spots are the tips. A V-tip prong on each end is standard and non-negotiable. Set that way, marquises wear beautifully every day.

In this guide

  • Marquise carat-to-mm at true scale

  • Face-up size vs. carat weight

  • Best settings: east-west, north-south, halo

  • Marquise vs. pear vs. oval

Marquise size, at true scale

1ct ≈ 10 × 5mm. 1.5ct ≈ 12 × 6mm. 2ct ≈ 13.5 × 6.75mm. For face-up presence, a 1ct marquise reads close to a 1.75ct round.

FAQ

Common questions

How big does a marquise look?
No shape reads bigger per carat. A 1ct marquise reads roughly 40% larger face-up than a 1ct round.
Which orientation — east-west or north-south?
North-south is traditional and finger-lengthening. East-west is modern and covers more finger width.
Are marquise tips fragile?
The two points are the weak spots — V-tip prongs protect them, and every quality marquise setting includes them.
Marquise vs pear — which is more dramatic?
Marquise is more dramatic. Pear has one round end that softens it; marquise points at both ends.