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Round vs Marquise Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
The clearest difference is shape and presence: a round cut returns the most light for maximum brilliance, while a marquise cut elongates the stone for the largest face-up size and a distinctive, regal outline. Choose round for a timeless, light-rich centre stone; choose marquise to maximise perceived size and lend a slender, elongating line to the finger.
Round vs Marquise at a glance
| Round | Marquise | |
|---|---|---|
| Faceting | brilliant cut | brilliant cut |
| Character | maximum brilliance and fire | dramatic elongation with the largest face-up size |
| Length-to-width | 1.00 (round) | 1.85 to 2.10 |
| Face-up size | compact, true to carat | elongated, reads larger |
| Durability | no points, very setting-friendly | two points need protection |
| What to screen for | cut grade above all | the bowtie and point symmetry |
| Starting price (1ct VS1) | $990 AUD | on enquiry |
| Best for | the buyer who wants the most light return and a timeless choice | maximum perceived size and a regal outline |
The key difference
Both cuts use the same brilliant faceting, yet they behave very differently. The round's 1.00 length-to-width ratio focuses every facet on light return, while the marquise's 1.85 to 2.10 ratio spreads weight across a long face that reads noticeably larger per carat. The trade-off is structural: a round has no sharp points and sits comfortably in almost any setting, whereas the marquise carries two pointed tips that need protective prongs, plus a careful check for a central bowtie shadow and matched symmetry at both points.
Which should you choose?
Choose the round cut for the buyer who wants the most light return and a timeless choice. Choose the marquise cut for maximum perceived size and a regal outline. Both are sourced to your brief, certified by IGI or GIA, and priced AU-inclusive.
Common questions
Which looks bigger, a round or a marquise of the same carat?
The marquise looks larger. Its elongated 1.85 to 2.10 length-to-width ratio spreads the carat weight across a longer face, giving the largest face-up size of any cut and a distinctive outline. A round of the same weight returns more brilliance and fire, but its 1.00 ratio presents a smaller surface area when the stone is viewed from above.
Is a marquise more delicate than a round cut?
In wear, yes. A round cut has no sharp points and is very setting-friendly, sitting securely in most styles. A marquise has two pointed tips that need protection, typically with prong or V-tip settings to guard against chipping. Both lab-grown stones are equally hard; the difference is the marquise's exposed points, not the material itself.
How do the prices compare for these two cuts?
Our round lab-grown diamonds start from $990 AUD for a 1ct VS1 stone, with cut grade the specification that matters most. Marquise stones are priced on enquiry, as we source each one to order. Both are independently certified by IGI or GIA at a VS1 minimum clarity, so you can request a current marquise quote with confidence.