When it comes to purchasing a diamond or designing a custom piece of jewelry, the advice you receive is just as important as the stone itself. Since 1939, M. Martin & Co. Jewelers has served the Chicago Loop by prioritizing education and professional expertise over high-pressure sales. What sets us apart on Jewelers Row is our unique guarantee: you meet only with a GIA Graduate Gemologist/designer during your consultation.
The Importance of Expert Guidance
Our owner, Stan Perkins, is a Graduate Gemologist (GIA) with specialized diplomas in Diamond Grading and Colored Stone Grading and Identification. This high level of qualification is essential because, in today’s market, most diamonds are not cut properly. We inspect a vast number of stones, selecting only the small percentage that meet our high standards for maximum beauty and brilliance.
Our goal is to educate you on the system so you can make an informed decision that balances quality and budget. We don’t just show you pictures; we have over 400 rings and mountings in stock for you to try on, ensuring you find a piece that truly matches your style.
What Our Clients Say: Google Reviews
Our commitment to world-class expertise is reflected in the feedback from our valued customers. On Google, Cyle Czerwinski shared that we provided a “world-class experience” and that Stan showed substantial expertise while educating him and his wife on different diamonds. Jack Power also recommended us, noting that Stan was “super knowledgeable” and helped find the perfect cut at a competitive price. Even for complex custom requests, like the Star Trek-themed project for Nicholas Reiter, our team used deep design knowledge to create a final piece that looked “better than I could have imagined.”
Longstanding Trust: Yelp Reviews
Our reputation for expert guidance has made us a family tradition for many seeking Graduate Gemologist jewelry advice in Chicago. On Yelp, Sharon Z., a customer for over 25 years, remarked that our “knowledge & expertise are outstanding”. Another client, Tj B., highlighted that because we truly “know [our] diamonds,” the often-stressful process of buying an engagement ring became a comfortable, professional experience. Even fellow professionals in the industry recognize our quality; Siobhan K., who previously worked in the diamond business, confidently stated on Yelp that we are the “best of the best.”
Why Choose an “Upstairs” Store?
By operating a low-overhead “upstairs” store, we are able to provide wholesale pricing to the public. We offer better prices—and better diamonds—than you will typically find on the internet. Whether you are looking for GIA certified natural stones or top-quality lab grown diamonds, you can trust that every item has been regraded for accuracy by our expert staff.
We invite you to experience the difference that professional gemological advice makes. We operate by appointment only to ensure you receive the dedicated time and expertise you deserve. Our hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Make an appointment with us today.
