Understanding Diamond Settings Without Stamps: A Jewelry Expert's Perspective

Question
Hi Thomas!

I was engaged a year ago and had diamonds from ring I inherited from my grandmother reset on a size 5 platinum setting. In my excitement to be engaged, I didn't realize until a few months later that the setting doesn't have any kind of stamp at all on the inside, it's just completely smooth.

I got it from a fairly well known jewelry store in Los Angeles where I have had other things repaired, so I called to ask if that was normal for them. The woman who answered said, "Well, it depends on the manufacturer. We can stamp it for you if it's platinum."

I've been scared to take it back to be stamped, for fear that they scammed me and my engagement ring will forever be tainted. I've decided to follow up and go back, but wanted your advice first.

Is that weird? Why would it not have a stamp? Is that even legal?

Thank you so much!

-Elle

Answer
Elle, I quite honestly do not believe a well known jewelry business who is also quite willing to properly mark your ring would have scammed you in the first place.  What would the store stand to loose if word got out that they had done such a deed?  The store would stand to loose their business, that is the risk.  Reputable and well known established jewelers have one aspect to depend on for business and that is their very reputation.

It is possible for a jeweler to receive an unmarked item from a caster or settings manufacturer. Some items we purchase are not marked.  We double check the quality (not really needed with the supplier we use in this case) and stamp the items with the metal mark and our mark.  Both should be on the jewelry.   

Yes, jewelry made of precious metal does not have to be marked.  This is not wise since the customer certainly looks for the markings as you did.  The law requires that IF the item is marked with metal quality, then the maker must mark the item also.  The maker's mark is like a signature, a verification that the metal quality mark is valid and provides for legal recourse should the metal mark be incorrect.

Elle, I would take the ring in and get it marked. There should be no problem whatsoever.

God Bless and Peace.    Thomas.