"Navette" (literally means 'little boat' shaped) is used as a general term for the outline shape which has pointed ends and a rather wide middle, not concerning the cutting styles.

"Navette" and "boat shape" are terms prefered in the colored stones trade in the old days.

"Marquise" is the term used in the diamond trade for a style of cutting in which the girdle outline is boat shaped with approximately a length to width ratio of 2 : 1 and the placement of the facets is the brilliant type.

Marquise is one of the most elegant diamond shapes that give designers a chance to exercise their creative imaginations. In general, the 2 : 1 ratio stones are the best. But if we have to choose between the fatter and the thinner (than the normal ratio) stones, the latter will be more attractive in appearance.

The marquise cut also has the characteristic bow tie effect in the center. So, we have to add more facets on the pavilion to break the lights and lessen the "dark" areas.

Characterized by the swirly flashes of fiery brilliance towards the two pointed ends, this unique cut presents a very contemporary appearance in today's jewelry designs.