A modified brilliant cut fancy shape diamond; the marquis is also known as the "navette" cut which means "little boat" in French due to its unique appearance. Commissioned by King Louis XV in Paris, 1745, to resemble the smile of his mistress, the Marchionesse Madame de Pompadour who was said to be stunningly beautiful, and an advisor to the king. Marquis cut diamonds feature 58 brilliant cut facets to maximize fire and sparkle, although they are prone to the "bowtie" effect- simply that some facets in the center of the pavilion fail to reflect light properly and at some angles can appear like a gentleman's dark bowtie. Recommended length to width ratios for marquis cut diamonds range from 1.75-2.25 for a traditional shape, although it is subject to personal taste.
See Also: Modified Brilliant Cut, Navette Cut, Bow Tie