When it comes to choosing a diamond shape that stands out, both the marquise cut and the pear cut offer undeniable elegance and elongating charm. Each diamond shape tells its own story, has its own flair, and offers its own heavenly option, so when finding which diamond shape you like best, rather than seeing a marquise cut versus a pear cut to be better or worse, it is more an issue of which one is more you.
Let’s explore both in detail — from their defining features to their sparkle, durability, and price — so you can find the diamond shape that best reflects your style and story.
What Is a Marquise Cut Diamond?
Defining Features of the Marquise Cut
The marquise cut diamond's defining feature is its elongated oval shape with pointed ends, and can easily be described as looking like a boat, or looking like an eye. The marquise, which came along in the 18th century in France, was though to be a diamond shape inspired by King Louis XV's mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour, and he wanted to encapsulate the smile of his mistress in a diamond shape. All the romantic history aside, the marquise cut is admired today for its graceful symmetry and dramatic, flattering appearance.
Brilliance and Fire
A well-cut marquise diamond generally has 58 facets, producing a similar brilliance to a round cut. Its elongated shape reflects light beautifully along the length of the stone, producing lively sparkle and fire. The marquise shape naturally draws the eye to its pointed ends, providing presence and radiance in any setting.
The Elongating Effect
One of the most popular characteristics of the marquise cut is that it offers a thin, elongating effect. When placed on the finger, the shape has an effect of longer, slender hands. For brides who desire a dramatic, vintage-look with maximum hand coverage, marquise diamond is definitely your go-to.
What Is a Pear Cut Diamond?
Defining Features of the Pear Cut
The pear shape, also known as a teardrop diamond, combines the brilliance of a round shape with the elegance of a marquise. While one side ends with a rounded, softer end, the other side tapers to a delicate point. The silhouette of the pear shaped diamond is soft and bold - the blend of curves and angles provides the pear shape its signature romantic feel.
Brilliance and Versatility
Like a marquise cut, the pear cut generally consists of 56 to 58 facets, allowing for exceptional sparkling and fire. The pear cut attracts many due to its versatility - it can flatter almost every shape of hand and can be worn with the tip pointing up or pointing down, which gives two different looks in one style.
The Pear Cut’s Unique Symmetry
While perfect symmetry is necessary in every diamond shape, it is especially vital for the pear shape. The curve must be balanced and even, and the tip should align with the tip of the rounded end. The proportions used will create not only beauty, but also allow the diamond to perform with the best light performance quality — qualities of craftsmanship with Lucenjuri.
Marquise Cut vs. Pear Cut: Key Differences
Shape and Faceting
The marquise and pear are both elongated brilliant forms, but their shape is different; the marquise has two pointed ends, while the pear is a point with a soft curve. This shapes the way the diamond reflects light — the marquise has a continuous line of reflection and the pear sparkles in the middle mostly before it radiates outward.
Symmetry and “The Bow-Tie Effect”
They both can show a slight “bow-tie” pattern across the center because of where the light isn't fully reflected. However, in a well cut diamond, this bow-tie is slight and can really add depth and character when done well. And at Lucenjuri, we make such precise cuts that the bow-ties are at a minimum, ensuring that each stone is glowing from end to end.
Size Appearance and Finger Coverage
Both cuts appear larger than their carat weight is due to their elongated shapes. The marquise elongation tends to look a bit longer than the pear and is a bit more dramatic, while the pear cut offers a look of more proportionate elegance. Any of the marquise and pear cut diamond will give the look of maximum size at no extra carat weight.
Durability and Vulnerable Points
The pointed tips on both cuts are the most vulnerable areas. Its always best to protect these with prongs or a bezel, to help protect against chipping. At Lucenjuri, every marquise and pear diamond is set with secure settings along with strong prongs, making sure the diamond is both secure and elegantly set.
Which Cut Matches Your Style?
Marquise Cut: Bold, Vintage Glamour
If you love making a statement, the marquise cut is your match. Its distinctive, regal shape carries a touch of vintage glamour and confidence. The marquise cut is perfect for a person with an appreciation of timeless sophistication, with a little flair; it’s about making a statement… elegant, bold, and unforgettable.
Pear Cut: Elegant, Unique, and Modern
The pear cut has a softer, romantic energy; this cut is popular for someone who wants to feel distinct and feminine while looking timeless — but modern. Whether set vertically for a classic teardrop look or horizontally for a contemporary twist, the pear cut radiates understated elegance.
Marquise Cut vs. Pear Cut: Price Comparison
Factors That Influence Price
The price of both diamond shapes depends on factors like carat weight, clarity, color, and cut precision. Marquise and pear shapes generally offer excellent value compared to round diamonds, since they use more of the rough stone during cutting — meaning less waste and more beauty for the same budget.
Value with Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds make both marquise and pear cuts even more affordable. Couples can choose larger carat weight or rare color grade diamonds without stretching their budget. Equally important, lab grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as a mined diamond, only they are manufactured with sustainability in mind.
Choosing the Perfect Setting
Best Settings for Marquise Cut Diamonds
Marquise diamonds are gorgeous in solitaire engagement rings, where their elongated shape truly takes center stage and shines in all its brilliance. And for those drawn to timeless sophistication, vintage-inspired marquise ring styles with intricate detailing or milgrain accents deliver an unmistakably regal feel that never goes out of style.
For those seeking something new and contemporary, the east-west marquise setting — which places the diamond horizontally instead of vertically — offers a fresh, chic aesthetic. This modern orientation has also become a favorite in marquise diamond necklaces, where the horizontal placement beautifully accentuates the neckline. If you love extra sparkle, a halo marquise pendant or a design with accented bail detailing enhances the sparkle of the center diamond, adding irresistible radiance to your look while maintaining timeless elegance.
Best Settings for Pear Cut Diamonds
Many brides are also loving the added personal element of pairing their engagement ring with a curved or V-shaped wedding band, creating a seamless, graceful silhouette on the hand. Others complete their look with a pear diamond necklace, mirroring the teardrop elegance of their ring for a coordinated touch.
Recently, pear diamonds have also become a favorite choice for Toi et Moi engagement rings, where they’re beautifully paired with another diamond shape — such as an emerald, oval, or marquise — to symbolize two unique souls coming together as one. The result is a modern yet deeply romantic take on a timeless design.
Tips for Deciding Between Marquise and Pear Cut
- Try on both shapes to see which proportions you prefer. This shape can vary from person to person.
- Lifestyle is important to consider. If you lead an active life, choose a setting that protects the tips, such as bezels or V-prongs.
- Express your style personality. Are you bold and dramatic, or soft and romantic?
- Trust your gut. Choosing the right diamond shape should feel like it was meant for you.
Finding Your Perfect Elongated Diamond Shape
At Lucenjuri, every marquise and pear cut lab grown diamond is ethically crafted with quality and precision to ensure exceptional balance and brilliance. Whether you're drawn to the vintage sophistication of the marquise, or the graceful modernity of the pear, our designs will showcase the uniqueness of each love story.
SHOP MARQUISE CUT LAB DIAMONDS SHOP PEAR CUT LAB DIAMONDS
FAQs
What’s the main difference between a marquise and a pear cut diamond?
The marquise cut has two pointed ends with an elongated, boat-like shape, while the pear cut has one pointed tip and one rounded end. The marquise offers a bold, vintage look, whereas the pear combines softness and drama for a more romantic silhouette.
Which diamond shape looks bigger on the hand?
Both appear larger than their actual carat weight, thanks to their elongated forms. The marquise tends to look slightly longer and cover more of the finger, while the pear’s rounded end gives balanced coverage with a graceful taper.
Do marquise or pear diamonds sparkle more?
Both deliver beautiful brilliance when well-cut, but their sparkle patterns differ. The marquise has a continuous line of reflection that stretches across the stone, while the pear produces a concentrated sparkle that radiates from its rounded end toward the tip.
Are marquise or pear diamonds more fragile?
Each has delicate points that should be protected by prongs or a bezel setting. With proper craftsmanship and mindful wear, both are durable enough for everyday use — especially when set with secure V-tips, as done at Lucenjuri.
Which shape costs more, marquise or pear?
They’re generally priced similarly and often cost less per carat than round diamonds. Because both shapes maximize the use of the rough stone, they offer excellent value — even more so when you choose lab grown diamonds.
How do I decide which cut suits me best?
If you love bold, vintage glamour, the marquise might be your match. If you prefer soft, feminine elegance with a touch of uniqueness, the pear is perfect. Try both on if you can — the right shape will instantly feel like you.
Once you’ve settled on your perfect shape, our comprehensive Lab Grown Diamond Buying Guide is the best next step to explore the 4Cs, settings, and value for your final selection.
