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Diamond "Bow-Tie": Food? Apparel? What is It?
The diamond term "bow-tie" refers to a dark spot in the shape of a bow-tie that lies in the center of fancy shaped diamonds such as the Marquise, Oval, and Pear. This bow-tie runs horizontally, East to West across the center of the stone.
Bow-tie running across the center of the diamond (indicated by Red Arrows)
Depending on the size, angle, and placement of the diamond facets, this bow-tie can be slight and barely visible or very pronounced and detrimental to the visual appearance of the diamond. It is a subjective call. Some bow-tie effect is good in that it provides necessary contrast and gives the diamond a sharper look.
It is possible to totally eliminate this bow-tie effect by altering the number, angle, size, and placement of the Crown and Pavillion facets.
Marquise without Bow-tie. Arrows indicate the facets that play a critical role in eliminating the bow-tie effect.
The Marquise shape diamond is a regal and impressive presence with evenly distributed dispersion and scintillation when cut correctly.
If this is your diamond of preference I recommend that you examine stones with and without this bow-tie effect and determine which you prefer.
Also keep in mind that in addition to the bow-tie effect, you need to also take into consideration a pleasing shape that is determined by the Length to Width Ratio and symmetrical proportioning between the top and bottom of the stone.
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