M. L.
Yelp
Having ogled some gold estate/signed pieces in the window over the past couple of days, I finally dragged my husband in for an impromptu first visit..... I wasn't expecting much, but, WOW. It turns out that the good stuff is hidden in the store. Case after case of antique diamond and gemstone jewelry! We may need to visit Guilford and Co. every time I'm in town!
I was surprised at how large this store is. The pieces are displayed well, grouped by era as well as stone type, as far as I could tell. I also couldn't believe how many Edwardian and Art Deco pieces they had on site. I mostly browsed the gemstone rings, but I'd imagine that this would also be a great place to purchase a piece with dreamy old cut diamonds! They also have a GIA GG on-site who is available to answer more detailed questions.
Some standouts --
-a warm L/M round cut diamond in a glowing emerald halo with absolutely GORGEOUS tiny milgrain detail on the bezel
-an intricate and HUGE Art Deco diamond brooch/pendant that I didn't dare try on
-a high carat yellow gold ring set w/ a rich, dark amethyst cab
-a fireball of an orange sapphire set in a halo ring
-a blue moonstone ring set in an angular diamond and filigree halo
-several Edwardian diamond rings in the central case, including what looked like a three-stone of old (mine?) cut diamonds in a filigree setting
-and.... Well, I could go on and on, but I don't imagine anyone is actually still reading this. :)
I should also mention that it is a very comfortable, low pressure environment to browse in. The SA was more than happy to dart from case to case, and even suggested different items for me to try on. She was friendly, informed, and very easy to get along with -- No fake nicety or condescension here. I actually told her directly that I'd used up all my "spending points" on jewelry this month, but she just kindly asked what I'd used them on and then continued letting me try on the pretties. Can't wait to make a return visit. I'm already (secretly, shhh) plotting another trip to St. Michaels.