Rylee Kahan - Leo Hamel

Celebrate May Birthdays with Emerald

2023-05-192023-05-19 by Rylee Kahan

Those April showers have finally brought us May flowers! Springtime offers endless beauty and bounty, with flowers and lush greenery everywhere you look. What better gemstone to symbolize the splendor of spring than vibrant green emerald, the captivating May birthstone?

History of Emerald

Emerald belongs to a group that industry insiders often refer to as the “Big Three.” These are the three most expensive and alluring precious colored gemstones that have been sought after for centuries: emerald, ruby, and sapphire. In fact, this captivating May birthstone has been worn in jewelry for more than four thousand years.

Ancient civilizations from the Inca to the Egyptians revered emerald for its many powerful properties. Pliny the Elder, a Roman philosopher who lived in the first century A.D., wrote that emerald was the only gem that delighted the eye without fatiguing it. Early gem cutters kept emeralds on their work bench to gaze upon from time to time to rest their tired eyes.

Modern science confirms Pliny’s claim with findings that prove green is the most restful color for the human eye, as it relieves stress and strain. Besides being easy on the eyes, green emerald was believed to give its wearer the power to see into the future and to recognize the false promises of others. It’s no wonder emerald was a favorite of ancient leaders like Cleopatra, who famously wore them in many of her royal adornments.

Emerald's Meaning

Besides their obvious beauty, emeralds are treasured for their meaning. In ancient Roman mythology, the emerald was the gemstone of the goddess of love, Venus. Though rubies are generally considered the gemstone of romance and passion, emeralds were once held in the same regard. Emeralds are said to stir feelings of passion, euphoria, and intense love.

They are thought to bring love that is deep and unconditional, making them the perfect romantic gift. The vibrant green hue of emeralds represents vitality, renewal, and starting anew. It’s only fitting that emerald marks the dawn of springtime, a time of rebirth and regeneration.

May Birthstone Colors

The ideal shade for spring, emeralds range in color from yellowish to bluish and can vary from pale mint to deep forest hues. Vivid, deep green emeralds are most prized, while those with too much yellow or blue are less valuable. An ideal emerald will have color that is evenly distributed with just the right touch of transparency.

Most emeralds contain eye-visible clarity characteristics called “inclusions” that result from their formation deep within the earth. These inclusions give each gemstone its own personality and character, an everlasting testament to the natural history of the emerald. When a single stone contains a wide variety of inclusions, gemologists call is the “jardín” effect, which is French for “garden,” because they resemble flowers and foliage.

Because of their inclusions, emeralds are delicate despite their relative hardness. Never put emeralds into an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner and avoid steam cleaning. Ring re-sizing or re-tipping of prongs should only be performed by an accomplished jeweler.

Where to Find Emerald

Columbia has been the most fruitful source for fine emeralds for over 500 years, with the Muzo mine producing the most stunning jewels in terms of both color and clarity. Brazil also produces stones from the abundant Belmont mine that are typically a little darker in color. Emeralds of very fine color can be found in parts of Africa, though they typically only occur in small carat sizes. Pakistan and Afghanistan are also important producers, though on a much smaller scale.

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, you will always find a wide variety of luscious green emeralds to fit every style and budget. Whether you’re celebrating a May birthday, anniversary, or engagement, Leo Hamel’s has a wealth of exquisite emerald jewelry that is sure to bring joy to your loved one. Choose from new designs or opt for something truly unique like an antique emerald ring or bracelet.

Do you have a beloved piece of emerald jewelry in need of repair? Our full-service jewelry store boasts master jewelers to help ensure that your precious jewelry last a lifetime and beyond! What’re you waiting for? Visit us today!

How to Pick Meaningful Jewelry

2023-05-172023-05-17 by Rylee Kahan

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we have lots of treasures that could be “the perfect gift” for your loved one. Every woman loves to receive a precious gift that was picked out especially for her – whether it’s glittering opal earrings for her birthday, a diamond heart necklace to say Happy Valentine’s Day, a floral diamond ring to celebrate an anniversary, or a pair of designer earrings “just because.”

When buying a gift as personal as jewelry, the hardest part can be picking out something that you can be sure the recipient will love. You won’t find a more complete collection of bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings to choose from than at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, and our experienced salespeople are experts at helping you to select a gift that will thrill her. But what if it doesn’t? You can bring it back and let her choose something else or get a full refund.

Why does jewelry make such a great gift? What is it about these embellishments that make them worth giving, time and time again? Let us explore the top reasons to gift jewelry.

Some People Don't Buy Jewelry for Themselves on a Regular Basis

Most people renew the basics such as shoes, clothing, bags, and coats as needed. However, there are some things that may not be on everyone’s radar as a regular purchase, because they are considered a luxury and come at a cost.

Yes, some of us buy jewelry for ourselves on a regular basis, to celebrate an achievement, or just because. But some of us do not. Those who do not treat themselves to jewelry purchases tend to get jewelry only when it’s gifted to them from time to time. For any occasion, just the fact that jewelry is not usually an everyday kind of gift makes it exciting and unique.

Jewelry is a Wearable Gift that also Has Sentimental Value

Practically anything can be given as a gift. Nevertheless, there is no denying that some gifts are more sentimental than others. Wearable items such as clothing, shoes, hats, and coats make great gifts, but they are not very meaningful. There is simply something about jewelry that makes it sentimental.

Perhaps it is because some jewelry pieces represent very monumental periods in people’s lives such as engagements, weddings, births, and graduations. It could also be that due to generally higher prices, jewelry takes some time and effort to buy to ensure that the recipient is happy with this important purchase. Regardless, one thing is for certain: jewelry is a wearable gift that’s not only beautiful but holds sentimental value as well.

Jewelry Can Be Timeless

If you think about gifts you have received over the years, try to think about which ones are still in use. Even those that are still being used may be on their last legs. Clothing fades, rips, gets stained, and goes out of style. Electronics get replaced by something newer and better before you even fully get to enjoy it. Even cars are on a timer from the day they are bought till the day they start showing signs of growing old.

However, fine jewelry can be cared for and enjoyed for generations. There are endless classic jewelry styles that ensure your piece will never become irrelevant, and if the style loses its appeal, settings can be changed and upgraded.

Jewelry is a Gift Now, and an Heirloom Later

There’s nothing better than knowing that a gift is yours and all yours when you first receive it. Jewelry, as we mentioned, can be worn for decades, but even when not in use can be easily stored due to its small size and passed down to the next generation as a useful and meaningful heirloom. Not to mention, depending on the piece it can retain or even increase in value.

Jewelry Can Hold Some Value Over Time and May Even Appreciate

Most gifts are not bought with the thought that it will appreciate over time. Gifts are generally about the “now,” and that’s perfectly all right. However, there is most certainly an advantage if a gift can be used and enjoyed and has the bonus of always retaining some value and possibly even being worth more the longer you hold on to it.

Now, not every piece of jewelry you purchase will increase in value. However, there are some diamonds whose value will appreciate over time. And gold prices can fluctuate but have steadily increased for many years. If the time comes to sell some of your jewelry, it’s nice to know that there is potential to make money on the investment.

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for someone special visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! We have a wide variety of new, vintage, and designer jewelry, as well as an excellent sales team ready to help you find the perfect gift.

Find the Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

2023-05-12 by Rylee Kahan

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! This year, Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 14^th. To help you shop easier here’s a few examples of beautiful pieces so you can visualize the best gifts this year. All the jewelry listed below is currently available in our showroom* and our sales team is eager to help you find the perfect gift! Stand out, no matter your budget, with unique and beautiful gifts that are as thoughtful as you are. This guide is just a small taste of what we have in our showroom and curated collections, so call us at 619-299-1500 or visit our showroom on San Diego Avenue today!

New 2.42 CTW Opal Ring

This stunning Ethiopian opal ring is the perfect gift for the Mom who loves statement pieces. Set with a 2.42 carat oval cut Ethiopian opal, this 18k white gold ring is sure to make a lasting impression.

Vintage 0.50 CTW Diamond & Pearl Bracelet

Pearls are a classic that’re making a comeback! Gift the Mom in your life this trendy 14k yellow & white gold bangle set with 3mm-5.2mm white pearls & 0.50 carats of single cut diamonds.

Vintage 0.18 CTW Diamond Necklace

Show Mom her heart is as beautiful to you as diamonds are to her with this stunning necklace. An adorable 14k white gold heart centered with a 0.18 carat round brilliant cut diamond is the perfect necklace for any Mom.

Vintage 0.34 CTW Diamond Earrings

These classic vintage earrings are a soft and subtle way of giving back to her this year. Set with 0.34 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds in beautiful yellow & white gold, they’ll definitely make a statement for every Mom wearing them.

New Denny Wong 9.72 CTW Blue Topaz Earrings

These exquisite 18k rose gold and platinum Denny Wong earrings boast 9.48 carats of oval cut blue topaz surrounded by a halo of 0.24 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds. With intricate details, this stunning pair of earrings is sure to surprise any Mom.

Vintage Tiffany & Co. Necklace

Tiffany & Co. has long been seen as a symbol of luxury, high-end quality, and stunningly beautiful jewelry. Show the Mom you love in your life that she has your whole heart with this gorgeous “T” necklace from Tiffany & Co.

No matter who the Mom is in your life, celebrate her this Mother’s Day. Our skilled team here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is more than excited to help you find the perfect gift for her. Hopefully this gets your ideas flowing, then visit our showroom on San Diego Avenue! We’d love to help you make her whole day magical.

*Availability may vary. Many of our items are vintage and pre-owned and we have limited stock. Call or visit us to view our collections.

Make the Most of Your Outfit with Accessories

2023-05-06 by Rylee Kahan

Accessories provide interest to your outfit. Without them, you run the risk of getting bored with your wardrobe, and your outfits looking bland since they’re always the same. They extend the life of your clothes and familiar ensembles. With a change of accessories, an outfit you were so familiar with can have a new lease on life and a new place in your wardrobe.

They create interesting details where clothes are simple or plain. They add personality to your look and give you an opportunity to express your unique personal style. Accessories also add versatility. With a change in accessories, you can wear the same ensemble over and over, but it looks and feels different with different accessories.

5 Types of Accessories

Shoes: Unlike other accessories, you’ll most likely need to wear shoes every day. Although it’s important to have a few neutral footwear options in your capsule collection, statement footwear can elevate your look. Look for shoes that are fun and comfortable – or else you’ll never wear them. However, splurging on designer stiletto heels that you can wear for a couple of hours to a cocktail party is never wrong.

Jewelry: Whether your jewelry box currently contains one fine watch or a host of bangles, statement necklaces, chandelier earrings, and chokers, you probably turn to jewelry when you’re looking to add a little sparkle to your look. If you’re new to jewelry, you might start with a subtle piece of jewelry like diamond studs, hoop earrings, or a pendant necklace – classic pieces that will work with almost anything.

Hair Accessories: Hair accessories offer an easy way to show off your personal style. Look at your current hair accessories and see if there’s room for an upgrade. Can you swap a plain hair tie for a silk scrunchie? A plain clip for a colorful one?

Handbags: Different bags – from totes to clutches – are appropriate for different occasions. If you have handbags in varied styles and colors, you’ll always have a unique accessory. Designer handbags from Gucci, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel upgrade any outfit’s style quotient. And buying vintage mint condition bags can make high-end more affordable.

Belts: Belts aren’t just for function; they’re for fashion, too. Whether you choose a narrow or wide belt, a simple belt or one with embellishments, defining your waistline with a belt is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit look more polished.

5 Tips for Choosing Accessories

Choose a signature accessory. If you feel overwhelmed by accessory options, choose just one statement piece that makes you feel great and that you can wear with multiple outfits. When you’re ready to add more accessories, create balance by choosing one piece to dominate your look in terms of size or color, then layer on more subtle accessories.

Think about colors and patterns. Accessories are a great way to add a pop of color to a simple outfit. Bright colors and animal prints can be difficult to work into your wardrobe, but vibrant, fun accessories like shoes, a belt, or a scarf can elevate your look.

Use accessories to transform an outfit. Accessories are an easy way to take an outfit from the office to dinner with friends. A classic little black dress looks work-appropriate when paired with a blazer and flats. Ditch the blazer, swap the flats for stilettos, and add a pair of diamond earrings or a bright gemstone cocktail ring, and you’re ready for a night out. Have a few go-to accessories in mind for those moments when you’re not able to make a full outfit change.

Look for accessories that express your personality. Love bees? Gucci bee earrings will be an attention-grabbing addition. Is your dog everything to you? Look for a cute diamond dog bone pendant by Tiffany & Co. Serious about the sea? Seashell earrings or a starfish ring from Denny Wong is a must.

You can’t go wrong with jewelry by famous designers. Explore different designers to find one that vibes with your style and collect a few of their pieces, such as Tiffany & Co. or David Yurman. Or diversify and get pieces from several designers whose jewelry you admire, from the likes of Cartier, Chanel, John Hardy, and Chopard.

How to Successfully Accessorize

Add More: Consider adding some additional accessory pizazz to your everyday outfit, or step up the accessories you do wear a couple notches. Sure, some warn of over-accessorizing, but there’s far more of the opposite – not enough accessorizing. It’s very easy to fall into a pattern of bland outfits. Stacking gold bangles or gemstone rings, and layering necklaces of different lengths and patterns can step up your game.

Habitually Accessorize: Adding accessories isn’t something to be done just for special occasions – accessorizing is for every day. When you get the hang of it, adding an accessory or two will feel like a natural way to complete an outfit. And that’s exactly it – no outfit is truly complete without accessories. No matter what your day holds, consider wearing at least one accessory item, even if you think you’ll just be sitting at home. Accessories add flavor and zest to a casual ensemble, and you often don’t need more than one to upstyle an outfit.

The Key to Accessorizing: The key to successful accessorizing, other than making it a habit, is to find and wear accessories in your style. And there is a style for everyone. Successful accessorizing is wearing only those accessories in the style you love and works for you.

There’s no better place to find one-of-a-kind accessories than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! Shop an extraordinary collection of vintage designer handbags and wallets as well as our new, vintage, and designer jewelry, all at a price you’ll love. You deserve to have your own unique style, and you’ll find the perfect accessories here at Leo’s!

Find Perfect Graduation Gifts at Leo Hamel’s!

2023-04-302023-05-02 by Rylee Kahan

Hats off to the graduating class of 2023! Hours of hard work, dedication, and sleep deprivation have all led to this exciting moment. Graduating is a tremendous accomplishment and should be celebrated as such! Whether your graduate is gearing up for college, or ready to take their advanced degree to the workforce, they deserve to feel special on their big day. Wondering what to give your grad to show your love and praise? Sure, every young adult appreciates a nice card and some cash, but why not choose something a bit more personal? We’ve compiled a list of the best graduation gift ideas that are sure to surprise and delight your loved one!

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Send your graduate off in style with a charming Tissot Everytime wristwatch. The simple, yet sophisticated design of this watch easily transitions from day to evening. So, whether he’s heading to the lecture hall or the big Friday night homecoming game, he’ll look polished and put together. One thing’s for sure, with a quality timepiece from Tissot, your grad won’t miss a beat, or his first college class/work assignment!

What better way to show your grad just how proud you are than with a dazzling pair of London blue topaz earrings? Blue topaz earrings are a sleek and timeless staple that every young lady should have in their jewelry box. She’ll look and feel like a true class act conquering her first job interview or crushing a big school presentation. Unlike money or a gift card, an elegant pair of gemstone studs is a gift that will last a lifetime, and a treasure she can share with her own children.

Help your recent grad look sharp at every important event. These designer sterling silver cufflinks from Tiffany & Co. are the perfect accessory for every one of his important meetings, presentations, and company dinners. A part of their signature “Please Return to Tiffany” collection, these cufflinks are sure to be the perfect gift for your grad!

Every new grad needs a reliable and high-quality pen. Whether your aspiring young professional plans to take on college or the corporate world, this Tiffany & Co. pen is an incredible designer writing instrument. And unlike your standard BIC ballpoint, the ink in a Tiffany & Co. pen can continuously be replaced, so you can be sure this gift gets years of use.

Give your grad the gift of peace, courage, and happiness with this charming Jack Kelege diamond and yellow sapphire ring. Yellow sapphire is thought to improve happiness and peace in the wearer’s life. The brilliant sparkle of diamonds is sure to make her light up. This dainty ring has several special details including alternating stones and intricate metalwork. She’ll be eager to wear this meaningful ring everywhere she goes!

Celebrate Your Grad with a Gift from Leo's!

There’s no better place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your graduate than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! Shop an extraordinary selection of fine jewelry, watches, and luxurious designer gifts, all at a price you’ll love! Your grad deserves to commemorate this momentous occasion with a gift that will last a lifetime, and you’ll find it here at Leo’s!

Best San Diego Spots for a Summer Proposal

2023-04-27 by Rylee Kahan

Ready to make it official? As summer approaches, so does a popular season for engagements. San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and cityscapes. There are endless locations to stage your magical moment. Here a few San Diego locations that you should consider when popping the big question.

Balboa Park

A well-known jewel in the crown of San Diego, Balboa Park hosts an abundance of areas to propose. While it does attract many visitors, the park is large enough to find an intimate spot. The historic landmark has breathtaking architecture, scenic backgrounds, and lush greenery. The Japanese Friendship Garden or Lily Pond are both tranquil settings. Its rich history and beautiful grounds make it a memorable place to profess your love.

Glider Port

Part of Torrey-Pines Park, Glider Port boasts a beautiful view of the ocean and sky. Glider Port is a popular hand gliding location, so your proposal backdrop includes a colorful array of hang gliders floating through the sky. This area is free of charge to enter, and crowds are not typically an issue. The green cliffside, leading to clear ocean, sets the mood.

Bayview Park

If you are looking for a view of the city, look no further than Bayview Park. This park is surrounded by well-kept foliage, which leads to an expansive view of the bay and city. It is a quiet park renowned for its breathtaking view. It is especially spectacular with the sunset glowing on the skyscrapers of downtown.

Windansea Beach

The beaches around San Diego usually are packed with people, but La Jolla’s Windansea Beach is a secluded place to propose and take engagement photos. It is built upon sandstone outlooks which can create dazzling photos as the waves lap up against the rocks. It is also worth taking photographs under the famous surf shack located on the beach.

Scripps Pier

A mystical and majestic area to get down on one knee is Scripps Pier. While the public cannot walk on the pier, the underside creates a tunnel vision view of the sky and your proposal. This location would be ideal to capture the beauty of a sunrise or sunset bordered by the looming Scripps Pier. It does require some walking to get to the pier, but the reward is a private spot.

Engagement Rings at Leo Hamel's

The first step to planning the perfect proposal is finding an engagement ring she’ll love. And what better place to find exceptional engagement rings than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers? For over 40 years, Leo Hamel’s has helped countless happy couples seal the deal with engagement rings in every price range. Shop for new, antique, and vintage engagement rings to find the right ring to complement your sweetheart’s style. Or custom create an engagement ring that’s entirely unique. No matter your vision, the friendly folks at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers can help turn your idea into a reality. What’re you waiting for? Visit us today!

Where Do Pearls Come From?

2023-04-22 by Rylee Kahan

The pearl, known for its mark of elegance, has become a staple in the wardrobe of fashionistas and celebrities alike. Stars such as Audrey Hepburn have solidified that pearls are a timeless statement-piece, but their beauty has affected generations of people. While we wear pearls out and about, their origin begins in a far different place. The journey of a strand of pearls on your neck starts deep in the ocean.

The pearl is unique in the fact that, unlike most gems that come from the earth, the pearl comes from oysters. Pearls are formed within an oyster when an outside stimulus irritates the oysters inside environment. This stimulus can be natural such as a parasite or artificially made like a bead. In order to protect itself, the oyster created a fluid-coating to cover the intruder. This coating is called nacre, and it is layered over and over until a pearl forms. Pearls that get harvested for the sake of jewelry usually take around three years and onward to develop.

Pearl farms are now the most common practice for cultivating pearls, but there is still the possibility of finding naturally made pearls. Farmed pearls are monitored and cared for in either saltwater or freshwater. When the oysters mature, they are harvested and opened up to reveal the rare beauty within.

From the harvest, the chosen pearls are matched by color and size. They are paired with pearls of parallel quality for stranded necklaces or have delicate holes drilled in for earrings and rings. The process of turning pearls into jewelry is detail-oriented work that requires skill.

From the ocean, pearls have made their way to adorn many of the most coveted pieces of jewelry. It is no wonder that pearls are as valuable and loved as they are! Each pearl is unique from the next, and they all survived harsh ocean conditions and years of maturing to be a part of our fashion today.

Pearls in San Diego

Curious where you can find a precious strand of unique pearls? Look no further than San Diego’s #1 jewelry store, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! We’re your one-stop-shop for an incredible selection of new and vintage fine jewelry, custom jewelry design, and jewelry repair. Visit us today, and let our friendly staff assist you in finding the perfect piece that speaks to you and your unique style. No matter your fine jewelry needs, Leo’s has got you covered!

Gemstones That Are Rarer Than Diamonds

2023-04-20 by Rylee Kahan

Diamonds are by far the most coveted gemstones in the world. And gem quality diamonds are rare compared to the total quantity of rough diamonds that are mined. Especially rare are gem quality diamonds of over one carat in size. This scarcity contributes to their value.

It might surprise you to know that there are several colorful gemstones that are even rarer than diamonds. Because of their rarity, these gemstones are not frequently found in jewelry. For this reason, they’re less well-known than gems like sapphires and emeralds, but certainly not any less beautiful.

Taaffeite

This extremely unusual gemstone was discovered accidentally in 1945 by Austrian geologist, Count Edward Charles Richard Taaffe. While combing through a box of spinel gems, Taaffe noticed there was one that was different from the rest. Because Taaffe was the first to discover taaffeite, the stone was named after him. Taaffeite can occur in colors ranging from deep purple to red, though red is the most uncommon.

Surprisingly, this stone scores an 8 to 8.5 on Moh’s Scale of Hardness, making it unusually durable. Very few taaffeite gemstones have been found since their initial discovery. In fact, the only known deposits are in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and China. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these dazzling gems, expect to pay about $1,500 to $2,500 per carat.

Tanzanite

Though tanzanite can be purchased rather easily, it is still considered rare because of scarcity. This gemstone is found exclusively in Tanzania, specifically in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Because this is the only known location where tanzanite can be mined, it is predicted that the world’s supply will be depleted within 20-30 years.

Iconic jeweler Tiffany & Co. famously used tanzanite in their designs, further driving up the demand for these beautiful gems. Tanzanite’s deep violet and blue hues make them comparable to sapphires, and they’re often used as an affordable alternative. However, as supply decreases, tanzanite’s value will likely skyrocket. Presently, you can anticipate one of these stones to cost you roughly $600 to $1,000 per carat.

Black Opal

Opals are a rather common gemstone and can be found in many jewelry stores. However, black opals are a unique exception. Black opals mesmerize with their celestial colors swirled against an ink black backdrop. It’s no wonder they’re considered to be so exquisite! Similar to tanzanite, black opals are found solely in one location – along the Lightning Ridge in New South Wales, Australia. To own one of these captivating gemstones will cost you around $2,300 per carat.

Red Beryl

Red beryl derives its bright red pigment from the trace element manganese. This gemstone is a relative of emerald, aquamarine, and morganite. Red beryl is primarily mined in the Wah-Wah Mountains of Utah, though small deposits have been located in Mexico and New Mexico. Most stones that are mined are not large enough for faceting, though if you’re fortunate enough to find one, it could cost you over $20,000 per carat.

Benitoite

Benitoite is found primarily in San Benito County, California, which is why California adopted the stone as their state gem. Other specimens have been found in Arkansas, Montana, Australia, and Japan, as well as other regions within California. However, the only gem quality stones have been produced exclusively by the San Benito mine.

Benitoite is sometimes referred to as the “blue diamond” for its mesmerizing translucent blue color. Because of its rarity, most gem quality benitoite is sized at a carat or less, though the largest ever found was nearly 16 carats. To get your hands on one of these gems will cost you about $6,500 to $8,500 per carat.

Alexandrite

Deemed the “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite has unique color-changing properties that make it highly desirable. In lighter environments, alexandrite sparkles a rich blueish green color, while darker settings cause the stone to transition to a vivid magenta or purple tone. This one-of-a-kind gemstone was first discovered in the mountains of Russia in the 1830s.

It was highly coveted by the Russian aristocracy, deriving its name from Czar Alexander. New deposits have recently been unearthed in Brazil, East Africa, and Sri Lanka. Perhaps these new locations will yield enough to help ease prices, but in the meantime, alexandrite can cost as much as $15,000 per carat.

Musgravite

Musgravite was first discovered in the Musgrave Range of Southern Australia. It is from this range that it derives its name, though traces have now been found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and more. Musgravite is found in colors ranging from a greenish gray to purple and scores an 8-8.5 on the Moh’s Scale of Hardness. This score makes musgravite ideal for use in jewelry, but unfortunately quantities are too limited. Despite the discovery of new deposits, availability of musgravite is still scarce, in turn making them quite pricey. The cost for one of these rare beauties? Specimens have sold for as much as $35,000 per carat!

Painite

In 2005, painite took the crown as the world’s rarest gemstone according to the Guinness Book of World Records. At the time, there were only 25 known specimens in existence. Today, that number hasn’t increased by much, with the only known source of painite being in Myanmar. This gem can occur in colors ranging from brown to red, and even pink. Painite is pleochroic, meaning that it can appear to change colors when viewed from different angles. So, what does the world’s rarest gemstone cost? If you’re able to locate painite on the market, it may cost you as much as $50,000 to $60,000 a carat.

Grandidierite

Grandidierite was discovered in Madagascar in 1902 by a French minerologist, Alfred Lacroix. He named his treasure after French explorer and naturalist, Alfred Grandidier. Since his initial finding, small samples of grandidierite have been found in Namibia and Sri Lanka, though very few have been gem quality. Grandidierite commonly occurs in a teal blue color and can transmit light due to it being pleochroic. Specimens that are fully transparent are considered the rarest. Forbes ranked this gemstone the third rarest on earth, with prices as high as $20,000 per carat.

Though these gemstone varieties may be hard to come by, there are an abundance of dazzling colored gems that are available for you to enjoy. Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, some of our new and vintage jewelry features precious gemstones such as emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and everyone’s favorite – diamonds! Stop by our San Diego Avenue jewelry store today to explore our ever-changing array of amazing gemstone jewelry.

Trendy Men’s Bands Your Groom Will Love

2023-04-05 by Rylee Kahan

There are lots of fun and creative options for men’s wedding bands. While men’s white gold wedding bands may be the most popular, it’s always fun to stray from the norm and choose a unique wedding ring for him. Here’s an introduction to a few of the different styles of men’s wedding bands.

These options are trendy because they allow for a lot of customization through metal and gemstone combinations. They also allow the groom to control the level of flashiness or understatement he wants. So, here’s a curated selection of possibilities for men’s wedding bands.

Beveled Edge

This is a small variation of plain metal men’s wedding bands. These rings have a satin or brushed finish on the central part of the ring, and the finish is polished towards the sloped edges. This two-finish appearance gives the ring a nice contrast without having two different colors of metals. This is a great option if you’re looking for a subtle update from just a plain band.

Rose Gold

Classic and distinctive, rose gold complements most skin tones and gives off an especially warm aura. It’s also a great choice for a groom who likes an alternative men’s wedding band. Rose gold changes shades based on the percentage of copper in the alloy. This allows you to find just the right hue you like!

Mixed Metal

A small detail goes a long way. Mixed metals allow for some personalization. You can even find rings that combine two different finishes in addition to the different metal colors. Whoever said men don’t have options to show off their style?

Texture and Facets

One metal or two, adding some texture to your wedding band can give a great feel to your ring. There are many finishes available. A satin finish is smooth to the touch, but matte in appearance.

Brushed finish is grainier than a satin finish, while hammered is the most rugged and textured one. Hammered finish men’s wedding bands are a good option for grooms that aren’t particularly gentle to their rings.

A faceted ring also provides interesting texture and relief. Facets draw attention and make the ring shine differently as you move your hand.

Low-Dome vs. Flat Bands

Low-Dome bands are curved in a subtle way on the outside of the band. The inner surface is still flat, which provides a comfortable fit and is great for long-term wear. Flat bands are the opposite of low-domed rings, they are polished and completely flat on the outer and inner surfaces. They make a great band for showing off any gemstones that are set on the ring.

Diamonds & Gemstones

Diamonds are the hardest substance known to man, and therefore a excellent choice for wedding bands. Sapphires and rubies are also great options as far as hardness and durability are concerned. On top of their functionality and sturdiness, the beauty and strength of these gemstones symbolize the eternal love and commitment that builds your marriage.

Men's Bands in San Diego

Stop by our showroom on San Diego Avenue to find the perfect men’s wedding band. Leo Hamel’s has all kinds of options for men’s wedding bands. If we don’t have it, we’ll find it for you. Or we can design a custom men’s wedding band per your vision and preferences. Get in touch with us today or drop by – we’d love to help you find one-of-a-kind wedding bands!

Celebrate April Birthdays with Diamonds!

2023-04-01 by Rylee Kahan

Since the time of Ancient Greece, the diamond has been the traditional symbol of love and commitment. Diamonds symbolize eternal love, courage, and good health. They have long been worn by leaders and figures of power to signify strength and wellbeing.

In 1912 the American National Association of Jewelers designed a list that assigned different gemstones to the various months as “birthstones.” Diamonds are the traditional birthstone of April and hold special meaning for those born in that month.

They’re thought to provide the wearer with better relationships and increase their inner strength. A diamond is believed to cleanse the energy of the wearer, build endurance, dispel fear and insecurity, grant courage, stimulate creativity, attract good fortune, and bring harmony.

Diamonds are one of the most precious and coveted gemstones that you can buy today. Representing wealth and luxury, they’re coveted by women and men alike. But there is more to April’s birthstone than meets the eye. Read below to learn some interesting facts about diamonds that you likely never knew!

The Cullinan diamond is the largest rough diamond ever discovered. It was unearthed in South Africa in 1905 and weighed a whopping 3106 carats.

The word “carat,” which is the measurement used to weigh diamonds, originated from the Greek word keration, meaning “carob.” Carob tree seeds were used as counterweights to weigh precious stones during the period. It is speculated that the seed species was specially selected because of a belief that their individual seeds are unusually consistent in weight. Unfortunately, science does not bear that out as factual.

The U.S. is currently the world’s largest diamond market, consuming about 48 percent of all gem quality diamonds. The U.S. also produces the most synthetic industrial grade diamonds, but Arkansas is the only state where gem quality diamonds are mined, the largest of which weighed 40.23 carats.

Rough diamonds don’t look much different than the average pebble and are easily passed over by the untrained eye.

Diamonds have been found in meteorites from outer space, indicating that diamonds are created even in outer space.

The highest yielding diamond mines in the world are found in Botswana, Russia, and Canada. About 80% of these mined diamonds are of a quality only used for industrial purposes rather than jewelry.

Because both are the exact same mineral – pure carbon – it is impossible to differentiate between a lab created diamond and an earth-mined diamond by sight or standard diamond testers. Only trained experts using specialized equipment found at gemological laboratories can detect a diamond’s origin.

The tradition of giving your fiancée a diamond originated in 1477 when the Archduke of Austria proposed to his future wife, Mary of Burgundy, with a diamond ring.

Diamonds for the April gemstone have garnered the hearts of many and are the most coveted gemstone to date. They’re deemed the “King of All Birthstones,” and they make an excellent choice for an April birthday gift.

If you’re looking for the perfect April birthday gift, visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers to peruse our extensive diamond jewelry collection! Our knowledgeable sales team is here for all your questions.