The Marquise cut diamond is considered a modified brilliant cut stone. Said to have been created to resemble the perfectly shaped lips of the Marquise of Pompadour this cut creates the illusion of long thin fingers. The length to width ratio of this cut can dramatically affect the overall look of the setting. Ratios of 2.0 or greater make for long and thin diamonds, while anything under 2.0 creates a wider stone at the center with more of a traditional football shape. Whatever your personal preference the Marquise cut lends itself to unique and interesting designs.