At Taylor & Co, we believe that the story behind your jewellery is just as important as its beauty. One of the key elements that helps tell that story is the hallmark, almost invisible to the naked eye, this tiny yet vital stamp helps to identify the quality, origin, and authenticity of the piece of jewellery. You may think that understanding hallmarks is a skill reserved for jewellers, but there are many benefits for consumers to have a basic understanding, especially if you’re purchasing a bespoke engagement ring, inheriting a family heirloom, or treating yourself to something special. Deciphering hallmarks can help to give you confidence in understanding what you’re purchasing to ensure that the piece is both high quality and priced fairly. 

Here’s our beginner’s guide to reading hallmarks, their meaning, and why they still matter in today’s jewellery world.

What Is a Hallmark?

A hallmark is an official mark that is stamped on items made of precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. It serves as a guarantee that the metal content meets the legal standard of purity in the UK. Hallmarking is nothing new; it’s one of the oldest forms of consumer protection, with origins dating back over 700 years.

In the UK, hallmarking is regulated by the Hallmarking Act of 1973, and all items above a certain weight made from precious metals must be hallmarked by one of the four UK Assay Offices: London, Birmingham, Sheffield, or Edinburgh.

What Does a Hallmark Tell You?

A standard UK hallmark consists of three compulsory symbols:

1. The Sponsor’s Mark – Much like a signature, jewellers and retailers have their own registered mark, which is applied to all of their jewellery to show who created the piece. At Taylor & Co, we are proud to have our own sponsor’s mark, which is a registered symbol of craftsmanship and trust.
2. The Metal and Purity Fineness Mark – This indicates the type of metal and the purity of its metal content. For example:
   • 375 = 9ct gold
   • 750 = 18ct gold
   • 950 = Platinum
3. The Assay Office Mark – This tells you where the item was tested and hallmarked:
   • A leopard’s head for London
   • An anchor for Birmingham
   • A rose for Sheffield
   • A castle for Edinburgh

Additional, optional marks include:

• Date Letter – Indicates the year the item was hallmarked.
• Traditional Fineness Symbol – Such as a crown for gold or a lion for sterling silver.

Why Do Hallmarks Matter?

Hallmarks matter for several important reasons:

• Authenticity: A hallmark proves that the metal is genuine and has been independently verified. This is great if you ever wish to resell the item, as it offers proof to any prospective buyers that the metal is authentic.
• Value: Items with proper hallmarks tend to retain or increase their value over time.
• Trust: Hallmarking builds trust between the jeweller and the customer by ensuring transparency.
• Legal Compliance: In the UK, it’s illegal to describe an item as gold, silver, platinum or palladium if it isn’t hallmarked and exceeds the legal weight threshold (1g for gold, 0.5g for platinum/palladium, 7.78g for silver).

At Taylor & Co, we are proud to offer fully hallmarked pieces that comply with UK regulations, so you can shop with complete confidence.

How to Find the Hallmark on Your Jewellery

Hallmarks are usually discreetly located on an inconspicuous part of the piece:

• On rings, hallmarks tend to be hidden on the inner band
• On necklaces and bracelets, check the clasp or back of the pendant
• On earrings, look near the post or back fitting

You may need to use a magnifying glass or jeweller’s loupe to see the hallmark clearly, as often they can be very dainty and hard to see with the naked eye. If you’re unsure, bring your piece into our showroom and one of our experts will happily help you identify and interpret the marks.

Hallmarks and Bespoke Jewellery

When you create a bespoke piece with us, you can shop with confidence as we ensure that every design is submitted for hallmarking as required. Whether it’s a platinum solitaire engagement ring, a recycled gold pendant, or a 9ct white gold diamond and ruby cluster pendant chain necklace, our hallmarked pieces reflect our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

We’re also happy to help you understand the hallmarks of inherited or vintage jewellery, and can advise on valuation, care, or even remodelling if you’d like to give the piece a new lease of life.

Your Assurance of Quality

At Taylor & Co, every piece of jewellery we craft or curate tells a story, one of artistry, ethics, and enduring value. Hallmarks are more than just symbols; they are your assurance that your jewellery has been tested, approved, and made to last.

If you’d like to learn more about hallmarking, book an appointment or visit us in-store. We’re here to ensure every detail of your jewellery, from sparkle to stamp, lives up to your highest expectations.

Explore our fully hallmarked fine jewellery collection at mastergoldsmiths.co.uk and invest in pieces you can treasure with trust.

At Taylor & Co, we are strong believers that beauty and responsibility should go hand in hand. We are deeply committed to ensuring that the jewellery we create and sell aligns with our ethical vision for our company as a whole. When you shop with us, you and your conscience can rest easy knowing that your jewellery not only looks exquisite but also has been handmade with care, integrity, and respect for people and the planet. Here are the ways we proudly uphold our ethical commitment:

Fairtrade Accredited

We are proud to be Fairtrade accredited, a distinction that signifies our dedication to responsible sourcing. We work with Fairtrade metals as we are committed to ethical and environmentally friendly practices. By choosing Fairtrade jewellery, you are directly contributing to a more equitable and sustainable world. It’s a choice that looks good, feels good and does good for the wider world. 

Lab-Grown Diamonds

We are proud to have been early adopters of lab grown diamonds in the local Berkshire area. For the past five years, our collection of stunning lab-grown diamonds has provided customers with an ethical alternative to traditionally mined stones. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds, but they are produced in controlled environments. This key difference both minimises environmental degradation and eliminates concerns about conflict sourcing.

They are often friendly on your wallet too, as lab-grown diamonds typically cost less than mined diamonds, allowing you to choose a larger or higher-quality stone without compromising your budget or your principles. By selecting a lab-grown diamond, you celebrate love and commitment while protecting our planet.

Chatham Lab-Grown Gemstones

We are proud stockists of Chatham, a world-renowned leader in lab-grown gemstones. For over 80 years, Chatham has been an industry leader in perfecting the art of replicating natural gemstone formation in laboratory settings. Their emeralds, sapphires, rubies, and diamonds are of exceptional quality, offering clients vibrant colour, exceptional clarity, and a sustainable origin.

Chatham gemstones are an ideal choice for those who seek the beauty and brilliance of fine gemstones without the environmental impact associated with traditional mining. By choosing Chatham, you embrace luxury with a conscience.

Melt and Remake Jewellery Service

At Taylor & Co, we understand the sentimentality of jewellery and that it holds a place in your heart. Our melt and remake service gives you the opportunity to breathe new life into cherished pieces that may have become worn or that need a new lease of life.

We carefully melt down your old jewellery and, using your original materials, create a fresh, beautiful design tailored to your vision. This process not only preserves precious memories but also supports a sustainable approach to jewellery by reducing the demand for new resources.

Whether you want to modernise a family heirloom or reimagine a piece that no longer fits your style, our bespoke services offer a thoughtful and ethical solution.

Discover more about our bespoke jewellery service and start your transformation journey.

Recycled Gold

Gold mining can have a significant environmental impact, which is why we proudly offer jewellery crafted from recycled gold. Using recycled gold means that no new mining is necessary, which helps to reduce ecological damage and conserve valuable resources.

And the best part is you don’t have to compromise on quality, as recycled gold is refined to the same high standards as newly mined gold. By choosing recycled gold, you are supporting a circular economy and helping to protect our planet’s future.

Commitment to Ethical Sourcing and Transparency

We believe that transparency is key to ethical business practices. That’s why we are open about where our materials come from and the steps we take to ensure ethical sourcing. Our customers deserve to know that the jewellery they cherish has been created with respect for both people and the environment.

We work closely with trusted suppliers who share our commitment to ethical standards, and we are continually reviewing our practices to seek even better ways to serve our customers and our planet.

Why Ethical Jewellery Matters

Choosing ethical jewellery means making a conscious decision to support a better future — for the environment, for workers, and for future generations. It means valuing craftsmanship, human dignity, and environmental stewardship over shortcuts and exploitation.

Every ethical decision we make at Taylor & Co reflects our belief that true luxury is about more than aesthetics; it’s about kindness, sustainability, and responsibility. When you wear one of our pieces, be proud to know that you are part of a story that values beauty, integrity, and positive change.

Our Promise to You

At Taylor & Co, we are dedicated to creating jewellery that is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also a force for good in the world. We promise to continue seeking out innovative, sustainable practices and to offer you pieces that you can feel proud to wear.

Whether you are looking for an engagement ring, a special gift, or a timeless piece to mark a milestone, you can trust that your choice is helping to make the positive change you wish to see in this world. 

Explore our collections and discover how your next piece of jewellery can be beautiful inside and out. Shop ethically with us today.

As spring bursts into full bloom and nature flourishes in vibrant green, it’s no wonder that May’s birthstone is the emerald. Known for its lush, verdant hue and captivating charm, the emerald has been treasured throughout history as a symbol of rebirth, romance, and renewal. For those born in May, the emerald is more than just a beautiful gem—it’s a stone that represents the month of their birth. 

At Taylor & Co, we wanted to give this elegant stone a moment in the spotlight and share the history of this iconic gemstone. Whether you’re desiring a gift for someone special that has a May birthday, celebrating a milestone that is taking place in May, or simply seeking something stunning and timeless, our emerald pieces are handcrafted to enchant.

The Allure of the Emerald

Emeralds have fascinated humanity for over 4,000 years. Revered by ancient Egyptians, admired by the Inca and Aztecs, and beloved by monarchs and modern fashion icons alike, emeralds are considered to be both glamorous and mysterious.

Their rich green tones are often associated with prosperity, luck, and harmony. According to legend, emeralds were believed to bring the wearer foresight, protection, and emotional balance. Today, they’re still seen as a gemstone of truth, love, and deep connection—making them especially fitting for meaningful gifts and for engagement rings.

Emeralds also boast impressive durability, ranking 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale. With proper care, they can be worn and enjoyed for a lifetime and even passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms.

Emeralds in Modern Jewellery Design

The beauty of emeralds lies not only in their colour but in their versatility. Their captivating green hue makes a statement in a variety of jewellery styles, from classic to contemporary, bold to delicate. Whether paired with yellow gold for a traditional look, platinum for a cool contrast, or rose gold for a modern twist, emeralds are often considered the centre of attention of any jewellery piece.

At Taylor & Co, we are great fans of this precious green gem and offer a curated selection of emerald jewellery designed to be loved and adored. 

Emerald Rings

A statement of individuality and sophistication, emerald rings make stunning gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a personal treat. Whether set alone or surrounded by diamonds, these rings exude elegance and luxury.

Browse our range of emerald rings to discover designs that range from vintage-inspired to sleek and modern.

Emerald Earrings

Elegant and eye-catching, emerald earrings add a vibrant touch to any ensemble. Whether you choose studs, drops, or hoops, emeralds bring an unmistakable richness and refinement to any look.

View our collection of emerald earrings to find the perfect pair.

Emerald Pendants and Necklaces

A pendant or necklace featuring an emerald gemstone can serve as a daily reminder of love, renewal, or personal growth. Layer them for a fashion-forward statement or wear solo for timeless grace.

Explore our emerald necklaces and find a piece that reflects your style.

What to know about Mined Emeralds 

Similar to diamonds, in traditional methods, emeralds are mined from rocks in various locations around the world, two of the most popular being Colombia and Zambia. Although all emeralds hold some similar properties, no two emerald is ever the same and even the location in which they were mined can create contrast. For example,  Colombian emeralds are world-renowned for their exceptional quality and vivid green colour, often featuring a slight bluish tint that enhances their depth. Mined from the Andes, they have a soft glow and intense saturation prized by collectors and jewellery lovers alike.

Zambian emeralds, on the other hand, are known for their rich, deeper green hues often with subtle bluish undertones and higher transparency. Originating from Africa, these stones are generally more affordable than their Colombian counterparts, making them an attractive option without compromising on beauty.

Both varieties are stunning in their own right, and at Taylor & Co, we appreciate the unique character each origin brings to this celebrated gemstone.

Chatham: A Modern Marvel in Lab-Grown Emeralds

We’re proud to be UK stockists of Chatham, pioneers in the world of lab-grown gemstones, particularly emeralds. Chatham’s emeralds are created through a meticulous process that replicates the natural conditions under which emeralds form. The result? Lab-grown emeralds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to those mined from the earth.

What sets Chatham apart is not only the quality of their gemstones, but their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. Lab-grown emeralds require significantly fewer environmental resources and avoid the potential human and ecological impact of traditional mining.

By choosing a Chatham emerald, you’re investing in beauty with a conscience. These gemstones are perfect for eco-conscious shoppers who don’t want to compromise on brilliance, colour, or luxury.

Natural vs. Chatham Lab-Grown Emeralds: Pros and Cons

Natural emeralds are treasured for their rarity and the individual characteristics they develop through millions of years beneath the earth. Each stone tells a story of nature’s artistry, complete with unique inclusions known as “jardin,” which can add to the emerald’s charm and authenticity. However, natural emeralds often require careful handling and maintenance due to their internal features.

Chatham lab-grown emeralds, while chemically identical, offer incredible clarity and consistent colour at a more accessible price point. They are an ethical and sustainable choice, perfect for environmentally conscious buyers. That said, collectors may sometimes value the historical and emotional allure of a naturally mined emerald more highly.

Both options have their merits, and whether you choose natural or lab-grown, you can be confident in the lasting beauty of your emerald when you shop with us.

How to Care for Your Emerald Jewellery

Emeralds are considered a fairly robust stone but are more delicate than their rubies, sapphires and diamonds so it is advised to take particular care when handling and cleaning emerald jewellery to ensure its longevity. Here are a few tips to keep your emerald jewellery looking radiant for many years to come:

• Periodically invest in having your emerald jewellery professionally cleaned, as emeralds have a lot of inclusions and there are a lot of risk factors
• Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
• Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
• Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
• Remove jewellery before exercising or handling rough materials.

Our team at Taylor & Co is always happy to provide guidance on how to care for and clean your gemstone pieces properly. If in doubt, please contact a friendly member of our team. 

A Perfect Gift for May Birthdays (and Beyond)

Emeralds are naturally suited to mark special moments in May, but their beauty transcends just one month of the year. Whether you’re celebrating a new job, an anniversary, a graduation, or simply want to give a gift that says “you’re extraordinary,” an emerald piece is always a meaningful choice.

Our emerald jewellery collection includes something for every taste, from minimalist settings to bold, dramatic pieces. Not sure what to choose? Book a consultation with one of our expert jewellers for personalised advice.

Let Emeralds Tell Your Story

At Taylor & Co, we believe every gemstone tells a story. The emerald’s story is one of strength, beauty, and vibrant life. Whether you’re born in May or simply drawn to this mesmerising gem, an emerald is a timeless addition to any jewellery collection.

Let your emerald be a reflection of your unique, vibrant personality and explore our full range of emerald jewellery here and discover a piece that speaks to you.

An engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases you will ever make. It’s a symbol of love, commitment, and the start of a new journey together. With so many options available, choosing the perfect ring can feel overwhelming. At Taylor & Co, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you find a ring that perfectly reflects your love story.

1. Set a Budget

Before you start shopping, it’s important to determine your budget. While tradition suggests spending a certain amount, the most important factor is choosing a ring that feels right for you. Setting a realistic budget will help narrow down your choices and ensure you get the best value for your money. It is also important to consider additional future costs, such as insurance and maintenance when making your decision. 

Explore our range of engagement rings to suit every budget here.

2. Choose the Right Diamond or Gemstone

The centre stone is the heart of an engagement ring, and understanding the different options will help you make an informed choice.

The Four Cs of Diamonds

• Cut: The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance. A well-cut diamond will sparkle beautifully, regardless of its size.
• Colour: Diamonds are graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer to D, the rarer and more valuable the diamond.
• Clarity: Clarity measures the presence of natural inclusions. The fewer the inclusions, the more flawless the diamond appears.
• Carat: This refers to the weight of the diamond. While larger diamonds are often more desirable, a well-cut smaller diamond can be just as stunning.

When choosing a diamond, consider the balance between these factors. A slightly lower colour or clarity grade can still yield a beautiful diamond if the cut is excellent.

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical, budget-friendly alternative to natural diamonds. They offer the same brilliance and durability at a lower cost. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are prized for their rarity as they have been formed over billions of years. Whether you prefer the sustainability of a lab-grown diamond or the timeless appeal of a natural one, Taylor & Co offers a stunning selection to suit your preferences. Learn more about our lab-grown diamond collection.

Alternative Gemstones

For a unique touch, consider alternative gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, or rubies. These stones add personality and a pop of colour to an engagement ring and can be just as durable as diamonds. Some gemstones, such as Moissanite, offer exceptional brilliance and affordability, making them an excellent choice for modern engagement rings.

3. Pick the Perfect Setting

The setting is what holds the diamond or gemstone in place and plays a huge role in the ring’s overall style and durability. There are many setting types to choose from including: 

• Solitaire: A classic and timeless choice that showcases the beauty of a single stone.
• Halo: Surrounds the centre stone with smaller diamonds for added sparkle.
• Trilogy: Symbolising the past, present, and future of your relationship.
• Vintage-Inspired: Intricate details and filigree for a romantic, antique look.
• Modern & Minimalist: Sleek, clean lines for a contemporary feel.

Your lifestyle should also influence your choice of setting. If you lead an active lifestyle you may wish to consider a bezel or flush setting to protect the stone from damage. Browse our stunning engagement ring settings here.

4. Consider Metal Options

The choice of metal affects the durability, appearance and cost of the ring. Common options include:

• Platinum: Highly durable and hypoallergenic with a naturally white sheen.
• White Gold: A popular, elegant choice with a similar appearance to platinum.
• Yellow Gold: Classic and timeless, offering a warm, rich glow.
• Rose Gold: Romantic and unique, with a soft pink hue.

Each metal has its own advantages. Platinum, for instance, requires less maintenance than white gold, which may need periodic rhodium plating to maintain its brightness. You may also wish to consider your partner’s existing jewellery or accessory hardware preferences to choose a metal that complements their style.

5. Get the Right Ring Size

Ensuring the perfect fit is essential. If you’re unsure of your partner’s ring size, you can discreetly borrow a ring they wear on their ring finger or use our ring size guide. 

6. Personalise Your Ring

Make your ring even more special with personal touches:

• Engraving: Add a meaningful date, initials, or a short message inside the band.
• Bespoke Design: Work with our expert jewellers to create a completely custom ring.
• Hidden Gemstones: Some couples choose to add a birthstone or secret diamond inside the band for an extra sentimental touch.

Discover our bespoke jewellery service.

7. Think About Long-Term Care

An engagement ring is designed to last a lifetime, so proper care is essential. Regular cleaning, professional inspections, and safe storage will ensure your ring remains in pristine condition.

• Cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild soap to gently clean your ring at home.
• Professional Maintenance: Have your ring checked periodically to ensure the prongs and settings remain secure.
• Insurance: Consider insuring your engagement ring to protect it against loss, theft, or damage.

8. Shop with Confidence

When purchasing an engagement ring, always buy from a trusted jeweller that provides certifications and guarantees. At Taylor & Co, we pride ourselves on offering ethically sourced, high-quality diamonds and expert craftsmanship. We provide GIA certification for our diamonds that are over a carat, ensuring their authenticity and quality.

Find the Perfect Engagement Ring at Taylor & Co

Choosing the perfect engagement ring is a deeply personal journey, and we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re drawn to timeless elegance or modern designs, our collection has something for every love story.

Start your journey by exploring our exquisite engagement rings here, or book a consultation with our expert jewellers for personalised guidance. Let us help you create a ring that tells your unique love story.