Bryan Nguyen - Leo Hamel

Glistening Jewels of December: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon

2024-12-17 by Bryan Nguyen

As December rolls in, it brings a trio of dazzling birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon—each with its own unique charm, color, and story. Whether you’re celebrating a December birthday or just love adding a splash of cool blues to your jewelry collection, these gems have something special to offer. Let’s take a closer look!

Tanzanite

Tanzanite is all about that mesmerizing violet-blue color, which seems to shift depending on the angle—thank pleochroism for that magic! Its shades can range from soft lavender to deep royal blue, making it a favorite for statement pieces. On the Mohs scale, Tanzanite scores between 6 and 7, so while it’s not the toughest stone out there, it’s perfect for special-occasion jewelry.

What makes Tanzanite truly extraordinary? It’s found in just one place on Earth—the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This rare gem was only discovered in 1967 and quickly became a sensation, thanks to Tiffany & Co. The vivid blue-violet hues come from the presence of vanadium, and top-quality Tanzanites can range from $200 to $800 per carat, with exceptional stones fetching even higher prices. A single-source gem this stunning? Definitely worth the hype.

Turquoise

If you love an earthy yet vibrant vibe, Turquoise might just be your gem. Its signature robin’s egg blue (sometimes with a hint of green) has been adored for centuries. Often, you’ll see it with beautiful “matrix” veins running through it, adding character to the stone.

Turquoise has been mined for thousands of years, particularly in arid regions like the United States (Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico), Iran (famous for Persian turquoise), China, and even Egypt. It’s a bit more delicate, with a 5 to 6 hardness rating, so it’s ideal for pieces you’ll wear with care.

Prices can vary quite a bit depending on color, lack of veining, and origin, with high-grade stones ranging anywhere from $10 to $500 per carat. Persian turquoise, with its pure blue color, tends to command the highest value.

Blue Zircon

If sparkle is your thing, Blue Zircon might just steal the show. Known for its brilliant shine and rich blue hues, it’s often mistaken for a diamond thanks to its high refractive index. Zircon isn’t just beautiful—it’s one of the oldest natural minerals on Earth.

Blue Zircon is typically heat-treated to achieve its vibrant color, and it rates between 6 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable choice for most jewelry. Some of the best Blue Zircons come from Cambodia, particularly the Ratanakiri province, as well as Sri Lanka and Myanmar.

Pricing depends on size, color intensity, and clarity, with stones ranging from $50 to $400 per carat. Exceptional pieces can fetch even more, especially for that jaw-dropping brilliance.

Which December Gem Speaks to You?

Whether you’re captivated by the exotic rarity of Tanzanite, the timeless appeal of Turquoise, or the sparkling brilliance of Blue Zircon, December’s birthstones offer something for everyone. These gems make thoughtful gifts or a perfect addition to your own jewelry box.

Stop by Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers to see these beautiful stones up close. From silver to gold settings, we’ve got plenty of options to help you find your next treasured piece. If you have any tanzanite, turquoise, or blue zircon jewelry that you would like to have authenticated and appraised, please reach out to the San Diego Gem Lab for expert service.

The Art of Layering Necklaces

2024-07-152024-09-06 by Bryan Nguyen

Perfecting the art of layering necklaces can be a challenge, even for those expert in fashion. No other accessory elevates an ensemble quite like luxuriously stacked necklaces of diverse shapes, sizes, and designs. If you’re intrigued on how to enhance your style with an elegant stack of necklaces, these tips will help you sport this trend like a professional!

The Power of Three

To maximize the impact of the layered necklace appeal, we advise combining at least three items of different lengths. But don’t feel limited! Feel free to wear more if you desire; more can sometimes be more audacious and exciting. The varied blend of textures, colors, and materials will keep you continually captivated by this trend.

Blend Diverse Styles

The secret to successfully balancing and layering necklaces effortlessly is by combining various styles. Pair a refined pendant necklace with a bold gold choker, and top it off with a lengthy lariat. Add a pop of color with appealing charms or eye-catching enamel. Personalize your stack with a favorite emblem, like an anchor or infinity sign. Accentuate your neckline with sparkling diamonds or other dazzling gemstones.

Experiment with Varying Lengths

Necklaces come in multiple lengths perfect for layering. To create a waterfall effect that highlights each piece, we recommend layering necklaces of differing lengths. Start from the top with a choker or princess length and build downwards.

Necklace Lengths

Choker: 14-16 inches

Princess: 18 inches

Matinee: 20-24 inches

Opera: 30 inches

Ropes & Lariats: 35 inches or more

Blend Different Metals

In recent times, mixing precious metals has become timeless. It made its mark on every type of jewelry from two-toned watches to mixed metal engagement rings. No longer considered a fashion faux pas, it is now completely suitable to mix contrasting metals while styling. Achieve this look by pairing individual pieces of differing metals such as platinum or yellow gold, combining distinct shades of gold like yellow, rose, and white, or choosing a piece that merges several metals together like a braided chain or a pendant of contrasting metals.

Keep it Simple

The guiding principle to styling layered necklaces? Keep it simple! There’s no absolute rule on how best to wear your necklaces, so have fun with it. Consider it an opportunity to showcase your unique personal style, whether you prefer vibrant and colorful pieces or elegant and subtle ones. Remember, jewelry is an extension of your individuality, be sure to make it entirely personal to you.

Throughout the day, layered necklaces will inevitably intertwine, reshuffling themselves. You may question how to keep your fine pieces from becoming a knotted chaos. Avoid this by selecting chains of different thicknesses less likely to twist together. Also, keep a small gap between each piece in your stack to prevent them from entangling. If the knots do occur, a pointed object like a needle, partnered with a small amount of oil can help smooth out any tangles.

The best place to find chic layering necklaces for less is Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! We have an incredible selection of fine jewelry, from necklaces to bracelets, and everything in between. Shop lavish layering necklaces with dazzling diamonds or explore chunky layered chains that’ll help you stand out and make a statement. No matter your personal style, you’re sure to find necklaces you’ll love at Leo’s!

History of High Value Gold & Silver Coins

2024-06-152024-09-05 by Bryan Nguyen

High Value Coins

Was one of your family members a passionate numismatist, but their priceless coin collection is now locked away to gather dust? Well, maybe it’s time to brush the dust off as one of their coins could literally be worth a fortune. Don’t believe us? Here are some of the most valuable coins you might already own and not even know their worth.

1895-S Morgan Silver Dollar

This coin is often referred to as the King of Morgan Dollars and is a very rare find. In fact, you are more likely to come across a forgery than the real deal, as original coins are very rare. There are only 880 mint versions of this coin in circulation from the original 12,000, and if the mint mark is missing, it is likely a forge or a replica.

1896-O Morgan Silver Dollar

This is one of those coins that can puzzle someone not familiar with numismatics. While a worn-out coin is rather easy to find, there are very few mint versions in circulation. Around 4.9 million of these coins were issued back in 1976. But in its original state, the coin is among the rarest finds. A certified mint issue of this coin today can be worth as much as a sports car.

1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar

The predecessor of the previous entry, the 1895 Morgan silver dollar is much more valuable, even in rough shape. There’s an interesting story behind it as well. Back in 1985, the New Orleans Mint was tasked with producing as many silver dollars as they could within a very short deadline. Therefore, the craftsmanship of this coin is rather terrible. The coins were hence stored and many of them melted until they were finally released into circulation and their value skyrocketed due to high demand.

1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar

Despite the coin being very valuable in certified mint condition or even in worn grades, the 1892-S Morgan Silver Dollar was never particularly popular among numismatists. The coin is very common in worn out condition, but a mint specimen is a rare find.

1886-O Morgan Silver Dollar

This 1886 dollar is particularly difficult to put a price tag on, and even the most expert numismatists have a hard time appraising this rare coin. Similarly to the 1895-O Morgan Silver Dollar, the craftsmanship of this particular coin seems to be rather sloppy. It is also worth mentioning that a forgery derived from the 1886 Philadelphia Dollar has been in circulation, although it is not that common. To recognize the forgery, look closely at the added “O”.

Do you think you might have one of these priceless coins locked up in the attic? Looking for an expert to determine the price of a coin or make sure it’s not a forgery? If so, stop by Leo Hamel Jewelry & Gold Buyers. Our expert buyers in our comfortable and secure jewelry buying office will resolve any doubts you might have and pay you the highest possible price for these rare coins. Find our hours and the buying office closest to you here or call at 619-299-1500.

Solitaire Settings – A Timeless Classic

2024-05-152024-05-27 by Bryan Nguyen

When it comes to engagement rings, few styles can rival the timeless elegance of a classic solitaire. A solitaire consists of a single center gemstone, typically secured with prongs, resting atop a solid gold or platinum band. Thanks to Charles Lewis Tiffany, the six-prong, round solitaire may be the perfect choice. But, if she prefers a ring with a little something extra, she can still enjoy the subtlety of a classic diamond solitaire with her own personal twist.

Pick a Colorful Center Stone

One easy way to spice up a solitaire engagement ring is to opt for a colorful center gemstone rather than a traditional colorless diamond. Choose from a selection of vivid colored lab-grown diamonds or precious gemstones to find the one that best fits your future bride.

Both rubies and sapphires are ideal for engagement rings because they’re nearly as hard as diamonds, with a Moh’s Hardness rating of 9 out of 10. This means they’re durable and able to withstand everyday wear and tear without scratching or chipping.

Get Creative with Your Setting

When you envision a solitaire engagement ring, you probably imagine the Tiffany setting we previously mentioned – a six-prong, round diamond ring. Though this style is most popular, there are plenty of other settings known to beautifully enhance a center diamond or colored gemstone.

A bezel setting, for example, frames a center diamond with a thin gold rim. This ensures that the gemstone is safe and secure from the hazards of daily wear. On the other hand, a cathedral setting elevates the center gemstone with thin arches, giving the ring just the right amount of height. When set in this way, a diamond can appear larger than it actually is.

Select a Unique Shape

Who said a solitaire diamond must be round? There are a variety of glittering diamond shapes to choose from that can add a touch of distinctiveness to her ring. Princess and cushion cuts are popular alternatives to the tradition round brilliant diamond. If she prefers something contemporary, pear and oval cuts are two favorites that have been spotted on the hands of fashion-forward celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Blake Lively. Fancy diamond shapes are one of the hottest engagement ring trends of the moment, and one you can expect to see much more of in the coming months.

Choose a Diamond Band

If she loves the look of a solitaire, but you still want to add some extra glam to her ring, you can do so by adding diamond accents to the ring’s band. Diamond accents can help to amplify the sparkle of a center stone without costing you a fortune. Because diamonds are priced by carat, adding small carat diamond accents is often more cost effective than opting for a larger center stone.

Stunning Solitaires in San Diego

If you’re planning the details of a romantic proposal for your sweetheart, visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Our spacious jewelry store offers a sizable selection of new and vintage engagement rings, from gorgeous solitaires to dazzling cluster rings and everything in between. Searching for an engagement ring with a special touch of character? Our collection of antique and vintage engagement rings is vast and varied, spanning decades of different trends.

Do you have a style in mind, but haven’t quite come across the perfect ring? Let one of our highly skilled jewelers bring your vision to life with a custom-made design that can be tailored to your taste. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we’re committed to helping you find a ring that she’ll cherish for a lifetime!

Love in Vogue – Engagement Ring Trends Taking the Spotlight

2024-04-152024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

Surprisingly, we find ourselves five months into the New Year. Amidst the distraction of stunning jewelry, we’ve closely observed emerging 2024 engagement ring trends. The past year brought us floral motifs, diamond accents, and rose gold settings. While some trends remain popular, this year introduces a few new styles. Let’s explore what’s hot in 2024-based engagement rings.

Colored Diamond & Gemstone Centers

Over recent years, colored gemstone engagement rings have increased in popularity, a trend continuing today. Favorites comprise sapphires in varied hues, yellow diamonds, and morganite. But the choice of color is entirely up to you! From a distinctively colored center stone to tinted gemstone accents, the color splash on your ring will make a striking impression. It’s crucial, however, to select a durable gemstone that can endure daily wear and retain its elegant shine for a lifetime.

Solitaire Settings

Renowned for their classic style, solitaire engagement ring settings were first introduced by Tiffany & Co. in 1886, accentuating the stone’s beauty and setting a trend. Despite its historical popularity peaking in the 1900s, multi-stone settings took the lead in the 2000s-2010s. However, the 2020s have witnessed a resurgence in solitaire settings’ popularity, particularly with oval cut stones. For an extra touch of sparkle in your solitaire setting, consider bands embedded with diamonds!

Unique Styles

The ever-classic round brilliant cut will perhaps perpetually dominate engagement ring trends. However, a dynamic shift towards unique styles and shapes, particularly pear and oval cuts, is evident. Boasting similar facet patterns and cutting techniques, these shapes add a contemporary spin on the traditional round diamond. The royal engagement and wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have notably boosted the allure of three-stone rings—these exquisite pieces symbolize a couple’s past, present, and future, imbuing them with an added layer of significance.

Diamond Cluster Rings

For those enchanted by sparkle and glamour, the trend of cluster engagement rings is quite compelling. A magnificently large central diamond nestles amidst a constellation of tinier diamonds, crafting an exquisite and captivating aesthetic. These cluster rings offer a vintage charm, ideal for the bride-to-be favoring a departure from conventional styles. A bonus—these clusters bestow an illusion of larger diamonds on your engagement ring!

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we spend our days helping couples pick out the perfect ring, so we see engagement ring trends firsthand. Without guidance, you can always stay up to date on trends too! Visit our jewelry store on San Diego Avenue to find your dream engagement ring. Whether it’s currently on trend or not, the goal is to find the ring that you will love for many years to come.

What is a Co-Axial Movement?

2024-03-152024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

Co-axial escapement, a modern type of watch movement, was invented around 1974 by an English Master watchmaker named George Daniels. Omega acquired the rights from Daniels to use this unique new technology and in 1999, mass-produced the first watch with co-axial escapement, the Caliber 2500.

It’s easy to see the benefit of co-axial escapement when you compare it to the traditional level escapement. Getting technical, the impulse in a lever escapement involves the wheel tooth sliding along the inclined surface of the pallet. This sliding movement generates considerable friction, meaning it needs to be lubricated to function properly. However, lubricants are highly sensitive to aging and changes in their environment (temperature, humidity, etc.), and ultimately compromise the accuracy of the watch’s timekeeping.

In contrast, co-axial escapement transmits energy using radial movements. These very short sliding movements reduce the amount of contact between parts inside the watch, which therefore reduces the friction in the escapement. This is like two gears meshing with each other so that they barely touch. Their movement is unaffected by lubrication because of the lack of contact and friction – in fact, a mere protective film on the tips of the escapement wheel teeth is sufficient to prevent wear and tear. This process ensures stable timekeeping.

Since watches with co-axial escapements require less lubrication than their level escapement counterparts, they benefit from greater mechanical efficiency to produce more precise timekeeping. An even bigger advantage is that they also have longer service intervals. Level escapement watches are recommended to be serviced every 3-5 years, while co-axial escapement watches can go 7-10 years without servicing.

Visit our San Diego showroom to try on some of Omega’s finest co-axial watches!

The Popularity of Platinum

2024-02-232024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

Platinum is a popular metal among wedding ring designers because of its many fascinating qualities. It is a symbol of prestige and endurance, and its durability makes it a perfect setting for a brilliant diamond or a vivid gemstone. While it once was a more expensive option than gold, with gold’s rising prices, platinum now costs about half as much per ounce as gold does, making it a real bargain for wedding rings.

Purity

Platinum is a rare and valuable material, mined at about one-tenth the rate of gold, and ranks as the 72^nd most abundant element in our planet’s crust. It is one of the purest types of metal and if a jewelry piece is stamped with PLT, PLAT, or PLATINUM, then it is 95% pure platinum. In comparison, 18k gold rings consist of 75% pure gold and 15% alloy. Gold needs other metals added to increase durability, whereas platinum does not.

Durability

Platinum is much more durable than gold, will not bend easily, and is denser than its gold counterpart. Although they can be scratched, platinum rings are easily polished to their original state without losing any weight in platinum due to their density. It’s common for platinum engagement rings to last a lifetime without substantial wear on the ring shank.

Color

As we previously mentioned, the natural white color of platinum is a perfect backdrop for diamonds and other gemstones, since it has reflective properties. The best part is that its color will stay pristine for a long time without any maintenance. People often choose white gold as a more affordable but equally attractive alternative. But what most don’t immediately realize is that the rhodium coating used to give a white gold ring its chromatic shine must be applied again every so often, or the metal will reveal its less reflective undertones. In turn, platinum requires less maintenance for its reflective white color.

Timeless

The feature that makes platinum most valuable is its timelessness. Imagine a ring that can be passed down for many generations without losing any of its original appeal. Platinum rings are exactly that! Platinum is considered a high-quality metal and if crafted by a skilled designer, this ring will turn heads for decades to come.

Furthermore, unlike white gold, the ring will not lose any of its color and its shine can easily be restored by a jeweler. Some people even choose to leave the material dull as the contrast adds to the gemstone’s brightness. This style of platinum is known as patina. Finally, platinum rings are perfect for people suffering from allergies as they are hypoallergenic and contain no nickel.

Consider all the features we touched on and you may realize that platinum is a really good choice for engagement and wedding rings. A wedding ring represents a symbol of your eternal bond. Therefore, the ring should last as long as your love for that special someone! Leo Hamel’s offers a wide variety of platinum ring designs for you to choose from. Be sure to visit our luxurious showroom and find the most unique and wonderful wedding rings in San Diego.

What’s the Difference Between Vintage & Estate Jewelry?

2024-02-202024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

You may be intrigued by jewelry that’s not new. Buying vintage jewelry is a great idea, but it’s worth sorting out the confusion – what is antique jewelry as opposed to vintage, retro or estate? You will notice that these terms may be used very loosely and sometimes interchangeably on the internet.

This might be because the author doesn’t really know the difference or is trying to make a jewelry piece more appealing. Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is your reliable source for the distinctions in these categories. We are San Diego’s largest independent jewelry store for 45 years, with a vast collection of new and like-new jewelry in excellent condition – including antique, vintage, retro, and estate jewelry.

Antique Jewelry

For a piece of jewelry to be labeled antique, it must be a minimum of 100 years old. Right now, it means that jewelry that was made prior to 1924 is antique. However, in the real world, you can find that jewelry close to the age of 100 years is also included in this category. This is often the case with Art Deco jewelry. The Art Deco era lasted from 1920 to 1930, but it started to emerge around 1915. Still, antique jewelry remains jewelry that is at least 100 years old.

Retro Jewelry

Retro jewelry describes jewelry with distinctive characteristics that was made in the Retro era that lasted through the 1940s and 1950s. Saying that an item is Retro determines not just the age of the piece, but also some salient stylistic features. These include lavish amounts of diamonds, symmetry and asymmetry, fluid lines, feminine designs, and a “larger than life” feel. Retro jewelry was greatly influenced by Hollywood glamour.

Estate & Vintage Jewelry

Finally, we come to the estate or vintage category. Saying that a piece of jewelry is estate or vintage tells you that it was previously owned. It might have been originally purchased yesterday, two years ago, or 20 years ago, and may even look brand new. Some pieces from designer brands may be “discontinued” in production and therefore considered collectible.

Estate jewelry may have been part of an estate liquidation. Reasons for liquidations are many: the owner may be deceased, may have become divorced or insolvent, or just decided to sell part of their jewelry collection. Vintage jewelry was probably sold by the previous owner for various reasons. Perhaps it was no longer worn or was inherited, and the style doesn’t suit the new owner. Or maybe the owner was simply in need of cash.

So, browsing estate jewelry returns many results – pieces that could be antique, vintage, retro, or modern (but always pre-owned). Estate or vintage jewelry may or may not be fine jewelry, which is characterized by the use of precious metals and gemstones in its construction, and should be priced accordingly.

Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is your go-to destination for the largest selection of new and expertly refurbished like-new jewelry in San Diego. Visit our showroom on San Diego Avenue, where our friendly staff can show you a handpicked selection of estate, vintage, Retro, Art Deco, and antique jewelry. Subscribe to our email list today to get notified of the hottest arrivals!

Did You Know Each Anniversary Has a Special Gemstone?

2024-02-162024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

An anniversary is a joyous occasion, a time to honor and celebrate the love that you and your spouse share. Whether you’ve been married for years, or are just beginning your journey as newlyweds, there’s no better way to mark your time together than with breathtaking anniversary jewelry. Jewelry is romantic and everlasting, a gift that can be cherished long into the future.

Best of all, each anniversary is traditionally marked by an alluring colored gemstone or precious metal, so shopping for anniversary jewelry is that much easier! If you’re in need of a little inspiration before you shop, we’ve put together a quick list of anniversary jewelry gift ideas that are certain to make your sweetheart swoon.

First Anniversary

The traditional gift for first anniversaries is gold, while the modern alternative is green peridot. Gold is commonly used for jewelry and watchmaking, meaning your options will be plentiful if you decide to go the traditional route. A gold bangle bracelet or gold hoop earrings is a gift that she can wear every day or give him a gold link chain that he may never take off. Set the gemstone peridot into gold jewelry, and you’ve got both anniversary markers in one. This enchanting green gemstone can be found in all types of anniversary jewelry. Surprise her with an elegant pair of peridot stud earrings for a unique gift that she surely won’t expect.

Fifth Anniversary

To mark the 5th wedding anniversary, you can give the gift of sapphire or pink tourmaline. Both richly colored gemstones make a spectacular surprise for the loved one in your life. A pink tourmaline pendant is a vibrant accessory to compliment her favorite outfit. Maybe he’d love a deep, blue sapphire ring that makes him look and feel like royalty. If blue is not their best color, not to worry! Sapphires come in a spectrum of colors like warm, golden yellows and enchanting, rich purples, so there’s something for every taste!

Tenth Anniversary

10^th anniversaries are traditionally celebrated with every woman’s favorite gemstone – the diamond! There is a wealth of options to choose from when it comes to diamond anniversary jewelry. Dazzle her with a delicate diamond pendant that she can wear with anything. Or perhaps a vintage diamond ring to symbolize your continued love and commitment to her. One or two diamond stud earrings make an elegant gift that any pierced man is sure to love. No matter what you choose, you can never go wrong with sparkling diamond anniversary jewelry.

Fifteenth Anniversary

Romantic red rubies are the traditional gemstone to mark 15^th wedding anniversaries, while alexandrite is the modern alternative. If you’re celebrating 15 years with your sweetheart, these two popular gemstones make a superb gift. She’ll look ravishing in a ruby bracelet, or even a charming ruby brooch. If he’s a sharp dressed man, give him ruby cufflinks. Rubies look great on their own but are exceptionally beautiful when paired with diamonds.

Alexandrite, on the other hand, has unique color changing properties that make it especially attractive in anniversary jewelry. This exotic gemstone is known as the “emerald by day, ruby by night,” appearing to be a greenish blue color in daylight, and a deep red to purple in darker environments. If she loves pieces that are uncommon, she’ll be mesmerized by a piece of alexandrite anniversary jewelry.

Twentieth Anniversary

20 years of marriage is quite an accomplishment, and a wonderful excuse to spoil your loved one. The traditional gemstone for 20^th anniversaries is emerald, and the contemporary alternative is yellow diamond. These vibrant, colorful gemstones look beautiful when they’re set in jewelry, and will surely brighten every day. A vintage emerald cocktail ring is an eye-catching statement piece that she’ll love to accessorize with, and his yellow diamond ring will be the envy of his friends. Or give her a special glow in a pair of brilliant yellow diamond earrings. What better way to show them just how much you’ve cherished the last 20 years than with splendid emerald and yellow diamond anniversary jewelry?

Thirtieth Anniversary

The 30^th year of marriage is celebrated with pearls and is known as the pearl jubilee. Pearls are classic and timeless, a fitting representation of your love that has endured for so long. An elegant strand of pearls makes a charming gift, one that she’ll wear for many years to come. If she prefers something with a bit of sparkle, opt for a pair of pearl earrings with diamond accents.

Pearls may be traditionally worn by women, but famous men in music and film are now wearing pearls, from chokers to earrings. Pearls come in a variety of colors besides the conventional white. Golden pearls, for example, have a warm, champagne colored glow that looks especially glamorous. She’ll be itching to get dressed up and show off her new pearl anniversary jewelry!

Fiftieth Anniversary

Not many couples can boast that they’ve made it 50 years with their better half. Imagine all the tender moments you’ve undoubtedly shared with someone after so many years living as one. 50 years should be celebrated spectacularly, which is why it’s known as the golden jubilee. For your first gold anniversary, you may not have been able to afford anything extravagant. After half a century together, you’re able to splurge on something truly special for your loved one. A luxurious gold watch always makes a wonderful gift for the man of your life, and a gold diamond bracelet is one perfect gift to completely dazzle your woman.

Anniversary Jewelry in San Diego

Shopping for an upcoming anniversary with your loved one? We can help you to make it an event to remember! Whether it’s your first or your fiftieth, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is your go-to San Diego jewelry store for beautiful, one-of-a-kind anniversary jewelry. Our selection of gemstone jewelry is vast, so there’s no shortage of options when choosing the perfect gift!

How Important is Vintage Designer Authentication?

2024-02-132024-05-24 by Bryan Nguyen

The market for designer handbags has always been hot. Because of the high level of desirability of these bags, many people are buying like-new vintage designer bags instead. One of the biggest problems the collector is facing is the influx of counterfeit bags in the market. Unfortunately, many of these counterfeit bags are hard to differentiate from the real thing. Only someone who is an expert on each brand’s serial numbers, stampings, stitching, and construction can always spot the differences.

Many people are turning to online shopping to find their dream handbags. But unfortunately, counterfeits are difficult to differentiate through online shopping. Online resellers don’t necessarily know that they have counterfeit items on their hands. Many are amateur bag owners, or people who don’t know how to identify an authentic bag, meaning that they may think their bag is real, simply because they don’t know better. Additionally, there may be resellers online who knowingly sell counterfeit bags, and usually at a massive discount. When buying online, or in person, if the bag’s price seems too good to be true, it likely is!

Verifying a Vintage Designer Handbag

One of the easiest ways to mitigate these risks is simple: shop in person. But make sure that the store where you shop is knowledgeable about handbags. Many secondhand goods dealers are not experts on all designer handbag brands. They may inadvertently be selling counterfeits that they believe are real.

Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego has been selling only genuine, authenticated vintage designer handbags for decades. Our in-house experts know exactly what details to look for and have access to authentication databases that most people don’t. All vintage handbags available in our showroom are guaranteed to be 100% authentic! Most bags are in like-new condition, so only you will know that you bought secondhand. Additionally, because you’re buying vintage, the bags cost much less than brand new.

Buying from local family-owned stores supports small businesses and allows you to be confident in your purchases. Removing the middleman, the shipping, and the counterfeit potential, is preferred over online shopping. And it’s easier to visit local businesses that offer authentication services.

Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers has experts on staff who specialize in handbag and designer vintage authentication. By purchasing from our showroom, you’ll save money on your dream bags without worrying about counterfeits, price gouging, and shady selling practices.

Our selection of vintage handbags made by Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Hermes, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more designers changes all the time. If you’re looking for a specific bag, our team will consult our worldwide connections to find it, so you don’t have to navigate the market.

Whenever you are in the market for a like-new vintage designer handbag, visit our showroom. We also accept your like-new designer handbags on consignment so you can get money for something that’s just sitting in your closet! Visit us Tuesday – Friday from 11am-6pm, or Saturday from 11am-5pm.