Identifying 14K Gold Wedding Bands: What You Need to Know

Question
QUESTION: We're going through my mom's old everything and have come upon alot of old jewelry.  There is a wedding band that looks like it is stamped 14R. Is there such a marking?

ANSWER: Hello Louise and thank you for your inquiry. The mark you have is probably 14K which is 14karat gold. You may want to have it tested by a jeweler or estate jewelry appraiser. A gemologist could also test it for gold if you need a valuation. Values would depend on the price of gold and how many grams your ring weighs. Hope this helps !

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DSCF0142   QUESTION: We've also found a beautiful pair of screwback earrings marked Albion. From what I read about Albion, it's not too common.  They have blue gems (don't know what kind) and clear gems (like cz or crystals or maybe even diamonds).  Have not been able to find anything like them on the internet.  What can I do to find out more about them?

Answer
Albion jewelry was produced by Albion Jewelers out of Chicago, Il. They began producing jewelry in 1935 making jewelry in base and plated metals. The stones are probaly rhinestones but some jewelers did put small precious stones in heavily plated metals. I don't have any information on them beyond 1935 so they are probably out of business now. Hope this helps and enjoy your earrings !