Identifying Your Antique 18K Gold Ring with 'Bud and Blossom' Marking

Question
i have a ring my grandmother gave to me years ago for my birthday. she owned and antique store, and the ring was worn a bit when she gave it to me. inside it is stamped 18k, it is very pretty filigree with what i assume is yellow, rose and white gold. a large approx 10mm orange-ish stone with beautiful clarity and glow, but worn on upper face, is set with unusual prong style. my question is this: it is also stamped "bud and blossom" inside the band. i did a search which showed only one result for this; a answer you gave a person i believe it was 05/30/06 regarding a ring they also had with same stamp. have you found any additional information on this particular stamp since this time? i still wonder what the stone is as it is an unusual color, prefers dim lighting and seems to actually dull out when it is stored away for awhile. then it brightens and glows. i have narrowed it down to maybe Sphalerite since the wear, but not sure. thanks so much for any help in identifying maker.

Answer
Hello Jenny and thank you for your inquiry. Sounds like a beautiful ring. I don't have any other information on this mark, but would advise you to have a gemologist examine the ring to determine what type of stone you have. It may mean a difference in how you care for it - i.e. keeping it dry, no soap, etc. Many gemstones especially opal, turquoise and types of jade are sensitive to various kinds of cleaners. Below is a link to a good site with jewelry care information. Just copy and paste it into your browser address field and hit enter ! Hope this helps and enjoy your ring !

http://lovejoyjewelry.com/care.htm