Understanding 'GUILD' Hallmarks on Men's Diamond Rings

Question
Hi David,
First let me say Thank You for taking my question!  I have the opportunity to buy an estate men's diamond ring with a makers mark or hallmark of "GUILD" stamped by the 14K on the shank.  Is this "name" in reference to the diamonds in the ring? Being GUILD Diamonds?  Thanks again, I look foward to you response.

Les  

Answer
G'day Les and many thanks for your query

The simple answer is NO. The manufacturer who made the ring may not have known what gemstone the ring would contain. Diamond - Sapphire - Ruby etc, so all they can do is mark the item with the metal hallmarks. In this case 14K which is the standard mark for the USA (or South East Asia).

The GUILD mark is simply the Maker's Mark or Store name. Many items are stamped with a Brand like 'BRIDAL' or 'FOREVER' etc and this mark is in that style.

You might like to browse eBay or the Antique Jewelry Fair at http://www.antique-jewelry-fair.com/ from time to time as they may get something similar.

Hope this helps...