Shape, Ratio, and Faceting Compared by Melissa Tyson Designs
When it comes to bold, geometric engagement rings, two striking cuts stand out for brides seeking something beyond the classic round or oval: the Dutch Marquise and the Elongated Hexagon.
At Melissa Tyson Designs, we specialize in modern heirloom rings crafted around the elusive elongated hexagon diamond. But we often get asked about how it compares to other cuts, especially the Dutch Marquise — a similarly angular, artistic shape that’s grown in popularity.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between the Dutch Marquise and the Elongated Hexagon: their shapes, ratios, faceting styles (brilliant, step, rose, portrait), visual impact, and what type of bride each might appeal to.
1. What Is a Dutch Marquise?
A Dutch Marquise is a unique geometric variation of the traditional marquise cut, often crafted with sharper angles and broader shoulders. Rather than the long, boat-shaped oval of the classic marquise, the Dutch Marquise typically features more angular tips and flat edges, giving it a more architectural and vintage feel.
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Shape Profile: Pointed at both ends with faceted straight or slightly bowed sides
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Typical Ratio: ~1.7:1 to 2.0:1 (long and lean)
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Visual Impact: Slender, elongated, and sharp — almost spear-like
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Vibe: Dramatic, romantic, vintage-inspired with a modern edge
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Stone Rarity: Quite rare — often custom cut
2. What Is an Elongated Hexagon?
An Elongated Hexagon features six straight sides — a modern and angular cousin to the emerald or radiant cuts. While technically a hexagon, it’s lengthened vertically to create an elegant silhouette that feels simultaneously structured and soft.
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Shape Profile: Flat top and bottom with angled corners forming six sides
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Typical Ratio: ~1.25:1 to 1.4:1
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Visual Impact: Balanced, architectural, sleek yet grounded
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Vibe: Modern, bold, clean — a favorite for clients who want uniqueness without fuss
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Stone Rarity: Extremely rare — often custom cut or repurposed from existing rough
3. Shape Comparison: Side-by-Side
|
Feature |
Dutch Marquise |
Elongated Hexagon |
|
Overall Shape |
Pointed ends with narrow waist |
Six straight sides with beveled corners |
|
Length-to-Width Ratio |
Typically longer (1.7–2.0:1) |
More balanced (1.25–1.4:1) |
|
Visual Movement |
Dynamic, sweeping |
Grounded, structured |
|
Edge Protection |
Tips vulnerable (needs V-prongs) |
Corners protected with bezel or modified prongs |
|
Finger Coverage |
Very elongating |
Substantial but balanced |
|
Styling Flexibility |
Looks best in solitaires or 3-stone rings |
Works in solitaires, halos, bezels, and modern stacking sets |
4. Faceting Styles: How They Sparkle
Both shapes can be custom cut in various faceting styles. Each style changes the personality of the stone dramatically. Here's how they compare:
- Brilliant Cut
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Dutch Marquise: Often found with brilliant faceting, which enhances fire and sparkle.
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Elongated Hexagon: Rare but stunning; can create unexpected sparkle zones and high light return.
- Step Cut
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Dutch Marquise: Less common; would create a vintage, mirror-like effect but can feel less lively.
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Elongated Hexagon: Often used; creates a clean, crisp, architectural effect — very Art Deco.
- Rose Cut
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Dutch Marquise: Difficult to apply because of pointed tips; not typical.
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Elongated Hexagon: Beautiful with a rose cut — flat bottom with domed faceting on top — subtle sparkle and a soft, vintage feel.
- Portrait Cut
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Dutch Marquise: Highly niche; rarely seen.
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Elongated Hexagon: Exquisite and minimal — a flat, polished window-like surface with minimal facets. Ideal for clients who want a modern, airy ring with historical elegance.
At Melissa Tyson Designs, we work closely with our clients to select not just the shape but the right faceting style based on how you want your ring to feel and perform in light.
5. Setting Considerations
Because both shapes feature points or edges, the setting style is crucial for long-term durability and everyday wear.
|
Aspect |
Dutch Marquise |
Elongated Hexagon |
|
Prong Needs |
V-prongs on tips are a must |
Can use prongs, bezels, or hybrid settings |
|
Halo Compatibility |
Works, but can exaggerate length |
Ideal for modern halo designs |
|
Bezel Options |
Partial or full bezel helpful for protection |
Bezel is popular and sleek |
|
Accent Stones |
Often flanked by rounds or pears |
Looks great with trapezoids, baguettes, or stacked bands |
|
Metal Choices |
Pairs beautifully with yellow gold |
Works well in all metals (platinum, rose, yellow, white) |
6. Who It’s For: Style Personality Match
|
Style Personality |
Dutch Marquise |
Elongated Hexagon |
|
The Romantic |
✔️ |
✔️ |
|
The Minimalist |
X |
✔️ |
|
The Bold & Artistic |
✔️ |
✔️ |
|
The Vintage Lover |
✔️ |
✔️ (with rose cut or step cut) |
|
The Modernist |
X |
✔️✔️ |
|
The Trendsetter |
✔️ |
✔️✔️ |
|
The Low-Maintenance Bride |
X |
✔️ (bezel is ideal) |
7. What We Recommend at Melissa Tyson Designs
While we love all unique shapes, we specialize in the elongated hexagon because it gives our clients unmatched flexibility, durability, and modern elegance.
-It’s versatile — works in many metals, band styles, and setting types
- It’s expressive — makes a strong statement without being trendy
- It’s rare — especially in natural diamonds or antique rose cuts
- It’s long-lasting — with strong geometry that supports secure setting
Whether you want it minimal in a platinum bezel or dressed up in a halo with stacking bands, the elongated hexagon is one of the most design-flexible stones we work with.
8. Custom-Cut Options for Elongated Hexagons
If you’re set on something truly special, we can work with our cutters to create a custom elongated hexagon in:
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Natural Earth-Mined Diamonds
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Lab Grown Diamonds
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Salt and Pepper Diamonds
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Antique Rose Cuts
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Moissanite or Colored Sapphires
You’ll receive renderings, videos, and 3D models as part of your custom journey — all tailored around your vision.
9. In Summary: Which Should You Choose?
Both the Dutch Marquise and Elongated Hexagon are beautiful. Here’s the quick summary:
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Choose Dutch Marquise if you love vintage drama, pointed silhouettes, and want a more romantic/artistic profile.
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Choose Elongated Hexagon if you want modern structure, versatile settings, and a bold yet wearable design that balances uniqueness with longevity.
At Melissa Tyson Designs, our expertise lies in the elongated hexagon — and we’d love to design your perfect ring around this stunning, rare shape.
10. Ready to Explore Your Custom Hexagon Ring?
We offer a completely customized experience — from sourcing or cutting your stone to designing your setting and delivering a handcrafted piece that reflects your personal style.
-Start your custom design journey here
Let’s create something breathtaking together.

