jewelry - Leo Hamel

What Makes Colored Diamond Jewelry So Unique?

2023-10-172023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

Diamonds come in as many hues and intensities as nature can possibly create. The most common diamond is the white, or colorless, diamond. However, this “white” color ranges from completely colorless to actually showing a light tint throughout the body of the diamond. The light coloring is most commonly shades or yellow, and sometimes shades of brown.

These color distinctions are very subtle and are often indistinguishable to the untrained eye, but they can make a big difference in diamond quality and price. Diamond color is graded on a scale from D to Z, from absolutely no hint of color to a visible tint of color throughout the body of the stone. Diamonds graded from D to F are considered colorless; G to J is considered near colorless; K to M is faint color; N to R is very light color; and S to Z is light color. The less color in the diamond, the whiter the diamond appears.

The further down the scale (from N to Z), the more yellow or brown the diamond appears. Diamonds actually occur in all shades of the rainbow, not just white. Naturally colored diamonds include brown, red, pink, gray, blue, green, violet, purple, orange, yellow, and black. When yellow and brown diamonds are an intensely saturated color, they are referred to as “fancy” colored diamonds and are most valuable.

Colored diamonds are created in the same fashion as colorless diamonds, but more chemistry is involved. When foreign materials other than carbon are present during a diamond’s crystallization process, it alters the chemical development, thus changing the color of the diamond. The result is a beautiful, naturally colored diamond.

How Do Diamonds Get Their Natural Color?

When different trace minerals and elements are trapped during the crystallization process the result is the creation of different hues.

Brown, Red, and Pink Diamonds

While still buried deep within the Earth’s core, intense pressure and heat causes distortions in the crystal lattice during the diamond’s voyage to the surface. This change in the electron structure absorbs green light, which reflects a pinkish hue and produces brown, red, and pink diamonds.

Gray and Blue Diamonds

When boron is present during the chemical process it bonds to the carbon in the crystal structure. This bonding causes the absorption of red, yellow, and green areas of the color spectrum and reflects a bluish/grayish color.

Green Diamonds

Right before a diamond is about to burst through the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust, it absorbs naturally occurring radiation. This radiation absorbs red and yellow light, which creates a green reflection.

Violet and Purple Diamonds

There are a few different theories about how these diamonds get their color. The cause of color is due to a type of crystal distortion; however, it is also believed the presence of hydrogen is a key factor.

Orange and Yellow Diamonds

Orange and yellow hues are attributed to one specific element – nitrogen. Nitrogen atoms will bond in such a way that blue light is absorbed, producing a yellow reflection. The absorption of both blue and yellow spectrums results in an orange reflection.

Black Diamonds

Contrary to all the above colors, a black diamond’s color is not related to trace elements. Small inclusions of graphite and iron clusters create this color, making the diamond appear opaque.

Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we have a vast array of loose and mounted diamonds to choose from. Whether you’re looking for the traditional “white” diamond or a unique, natural color, stop by our jewelry store on San Diego Avenue to find your favorite diamond. Our expert salespeople will guide you to make the very best decision for your needs.

The Perfect End of Summer Birthstone

2023-08-042023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

Peridot, the birthstone for August babies, is sure to make you green with envy. A gem variety of olivine, peridot is composed primarily of two minerals: fayalite and forsterite. The presence of iron, which is rich in fayalite, is what gives peridot its signature green hue. Peridots are one of the few gemstones that occur in one consistent color. However, they can be found in shades ranging from light yellowish green to deep olive. Celebrating the August born in your life? Learn all you need to know about gorgeous green peridots here!

Is Peridot from Outer Space?

Peridot crystals have been discovered in meteorite particles left over from our solar system’s conception! Olivine traces have also been found in stardust, indicating that this gemstone can form even in the cosmos. If you’re looking for a truly otherworldly gemstone, peridot is for you!

Here on Earth, peridot is the only gemstone other than diamond that is found within the earth’s inner mantle rather than originating from the earth’s top layer crust. Peridot is commonly mined in Egypt, China, Myanmar, the Red Sea, and Mexico. In the 1990s, peridots experienced a revival of popularity when new deposits were unearthed in Pakistan.

They are mined within the U.S. as well, specifically in Arizona. The state is home to the San Carlos Reservation – the largest peridot producer in the world. However, its most ancient sources originate from St. John’s Island, also known as Zabargad Island, off the coast of Egypt. This gemstone is particularly revered in Egypt, where it is the country’s National Gem. Also, it was the ancient Egyptians who referred to peridots as “gems of the sun.” In fact, some modern historians believe that Cleopatra’s beloved emeralds may have in fact been peridots.

August Birthstone Meaning

Known to the ancient Hebrews, peridot also has biblical references and was later used by Europeans after the crusades to embellish churches and cathedrals. Ancient lore said the peridot would bring the wearer good luck, relieve anxiety, and inspire confidence. It was worn as a talisman to ward off evil spirits, night terrors, and other dark magic.

It is believed that peridots have the spiritual properties to help heal relationships during times of conflict. This is because it is thought to clear the mind and open the heart. Peridot is also known for relieving stress by helping one balance their emotions. It has often been referred to as the “evening emerald” because ancient miners would search for peridot in the evening when its color would shine as brightly as emeralds under lamplight.

Along with being the birthstone for August, peridot is also traditionally gifted for a 16^th wedding anniversary. It is a magnificent gem, not only for its beauty and spiritual properties, but because it is also very affordable. If you’re looking for an alternative to an emerald, peridot might fit the bill! Some of the deeper green variations of peridot do resemble emerald.

Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego today to shop for the perfect peridot jewelry for your August born loved one, or maybe to celebrate 16 years of wedded bliss! Whatever occasion you’re shopping for, you’re sure to find a peridot piece they’ll love here at Leo Hamel’s!

Celebrate July Birthdays with Rubies!

2023-07-112023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

You’re probably burned out from hanging out at the beach, grilling the day away, and watching a magnificent firework show lighting up the sky, but the doesn’t mean you get to slack on giving incredible birthday gifts. Putting some thought and effort into purchasing a birthday gift makes it that much more special. And that’s exactly why birthstone jewelry always makes an exceptional birthday gift. Ruby is the July birthstone, and we’re here to show you some of the rosiest rubies to gift your friend or loved one born in this glorious summer month.

Rubies have been one of the most valued gemstones for thousands of years, representing wealth, wisdom, passion, and love. Regardless of the gift you choose, its underlying message will show just how much you care.

A dainty ruby and diamond flower ring makes a beautiful gift. The combination of rubies and diamonds is truly remarkable. The brilliant red ruby give major summer vibes while the diamond halo displays the perfect amount of sparkle and shine. This is a fantastic birthday gift for any July baby who adores all things nature inspired.

Dangle earrings are very trendy right now, so grabbing these for your fashion-forward friend is a great idea. These earrings are versatile so whether she’s trying to keep it casual or dressing up for a night out, they will look absolutely beautiful. It’s essential for every girl to have a pair of earrings that make it easy to dress up or dress down, so you know she’ll really appreciate these.

Brooches are making a comeback! Gone are the days when brooches were only worn by little old ladies in their Sunday best. Now, there are so many different creative ways to wear a brooch! This ruby brooch looks gorgeous securely pinned to the lapel of a blazer, but our favorite way to wear it is as a pendant. All you have to do is clasp the pin shut, slip a chain through and voilà! It’s now a stunning ruby flower pendant! This is the perfect July birthstone gift for anyone who enjoys playing around with creative expression.

Bigger isn’t always better. Sometimes something sweet and simple can be more meaningful than something grand and extravagant. This ruby and diamond halo pendant is the perfect July birthstone gift for anyone who keeps her jewelry to a chic whisper. It’s not too big, it’s not too small, and it’s a charming tribute to their summer birthday.

If you’re looking for something truly breathtaking, this is the piece. Doesn’t the vivid red tone of the rubies paired with the sparkle of the diamonds completely mesmerize you? Tennis bracelets are classic and exquisite, making this a fantastic July birthstone gift for any lady who is all about class and elegance. As soon as she opens the box, this is sure to become her new favorite piece of jewelry.

If none of these gorgeous gift ideas seem right for the special person you’re shopping for, don’t be discouraged! Visit our jewelry store on San Diego Avenue to browse hundreds of other options! Our vast collection is brimming with new, designer, and vintage ruby and colored gemstone jewelry. Let us help you select something spectacular to stun your July-born loved one.

Tips for Designing the Perfect Engagement Ring

2023-06-302023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

The many different options for engagement rings can be a little overwhelming. And sometimes, it is too hard to decide on just one. You’ll find a diamond you love, but the setting is not the right style. Or vice versa. Maybe you like the band on this ring, the setting on that ring, and the style or color of yet another ring!

If you find yourself being drawn to certain elements of engagement rings, but not the ring itself, you might want to consider designing a custom engagement ring. Custom engagement rings are an excellent way to be sure your significant other truly loves the ring and will cherish it for a lifetime.

Whether you will be shopping around with your significant other or are planning a surprise engagement, we’re sure you will find these six custom engagement ring design tips very helpful.

Choose a Reputable Jeweler

Aside from your relationship with your future spouse, this is one of the most important relationships you can form! You are entrusting this person to create one of the largest and most important purchases of your entire life. You’ll also be working very closely with the jeweler you choose on something very intimate – be sure you trust their work and value their opinion.

Look for the best custom engagement ring designers in your area. Ask friends and family for referrals. Do a quick search online to see which stores rank the highest, have the best reviews, and have work similar to your vision. This ring will be worn for a lifetime; you want to be sure you choose someone who has the skill and knowledge to make your dream engagement ring a reality.

Draw Inspiration

Know the specifics of what you like and dislike. Not into the glitz and glam of halo designs? Maybe a classic solitaire is a better style for you. It’s very helpful to have these ideas written down somewhere to share with the jeweler you choose. If you’re a list person, try making a pros and cons list. If visuals are more your thing, print out photos or make sketches of certain ideas you have.

In today’s time, social media is extremely useful for this step. Pinterest is a great source to use. Ladies, are you trying to drop hints to your man for what styles you like? Create a public Pinterest board so he can see them! Gents, this just made your job a whole lot easier, and you know you’ll be designing a ring she’ll truly adore. When designing your very own engagement ring, you can borrow ideas from anywhere.

Try on Different Styles

Have some fun trying on different styles before you decide on anything. A ring can look different on your (or her) hand. You might think you like a certain cut or style, but you won’t truly know until you have actually seen it on a finger. Visit different jewelry stores to test out different cuts, sizes, colors, and styles.

Do Your Research

This step will help you narrow down the specifics of the custom ring you will design. What size diamond does your special someone desire? Has she mentioned anything about the specific clarity she wants? What about the kind of metal for the band and setting? Should you opt for a solid color or mixed metal style? Answering these questions beforehand will also help you figure out what fits your budget and what doesn’t. Obviously, the bigger the center stone and the less included it is, the more expensive it will be.

Similarly, the type of metal chosen will impact the total price. Platinum is a common choice for engagement rings because it is durable and hypoallergenic. But it’s also one of the most expensive precious metals. If you appreciate the shine of platinum but must stick to a budget, a good alternative is white gold. Don’t forget about the wide array of other options too: silver, yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, and titanium.

There are many different factors that go into designing a custom engagement ring. Each one directly affects the final cost. Plan accordingly so you don’t go over budget. You’ll want to get a quote from the jeweler, so you won’t be surprised by the cost of custom engagement rings.

Collaborate

After you have some idea of what you want, schedule a meeting with your chosen jeweler. Make sure to bring all your visual inspiration; the more ideas you can show them, the easier the process will be. A jeweler is an artist, and because of this, there should be a little bit of creative freedom allowed to them. After all, they are the experts. List then to their advice.

For example, if you’re designing an engagement ring for an active woman with a hands-on job and you’ve selected a cathedral setting, your jeweler might suggest otherwise. Are they trying to sabotage your ring? No! They just want to make sure the ring can be worn as often as possible, and the center stone is protected from potential damage. Your jeweler is here to help, and your collaboration will make the whole process smoother.

Give Yourself Enough Time

One of the most asked questions when it comes to custom design is, “How long does it take a jeweler to make a custom ring?” But there is really no straightforward answer! Custom ring design is an entire process – you’re not walking into a jewelry store, selecting a ring that is on display, and leaving with the ring the same day. The custom engagement ring timeline is much more involved than that.

Once you’ve had an in-depth conversation with your jeweler about your desires, seen a wax or computer-aided design (CAD) model, made any revisions, and approved the final design, only then can the real magic happen. The time it takes for your ring to be finished depends on the number and types of stones being set, the intricacy of the design, and the type(s) of precious metals used.

Your jeweler is creating a lifelong symbol of your love and commitment, and you can’t rush perfection! Typically, custom engagement rings take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. Give yourself enough time for the ring to be completed before you pop the big question.

Buy a Custom Engagement Ring in San Diego

Looking for the best custom jewelers in San Diego? At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, our in-house Master Jewelers, have the skill and dedication to help create custom engagement rings beyond your wildest dreams. We’ll even help you customize both wedding bands for an even more personalized wedding set! Give us a call at 619-299-1500, shoot us an email, or simply stop by our jewelry store on San Diego Avenue, just east of the 5 across from the airport!

Update Your Wardrobe with Yellow Gold Jewelry

2023-06-282023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

Gold has fascinated humans for about as far back as we can trace civilization. Used historically as a symbol of status, gold’s role in the world changed after 1792. The Mint and Coinage Act was passed by the US Congress, establishing a fixed price of gold so that it could become the standard unit of currency in the US.

Things changed over time, and the government completely abandoned gold as the standard for currency in 1971. Since then, gold prices have fluctuated with supply and demand, just like any other valuable commodity.

But gold has historically held its value, especially as compared to the paper dollar. Before 1971, a $20 gold piece and a $20 paper bill were the same value. Now that $20 gold piece is worth about $1900 paper dollars. Don’t we all wish we’d have purchased $25 dollar gold coins in 1971!

The awesome thing about gold jewelry is that the gold it contains also holds value, but unlike gold coins, you don’t have to keep it stashed away in a safe somewhere. You can wear and enjoy your gold as the decorative status symbol that it’s been since the beginning of time. When you want to change it up, you can use the value it’s held to get cash to buy something else.

The unaltered color of gold as it is mined from the ground is bright golden yellow, so originally, all gold jewelry was yellow gold. Other colors of gold jewelry were created by adding other metals to yellow gold. Rose gold is created by adding copper to yellow gold. White gold is a mixture of nickel and zinc with yellow gold.

These other colors of gold have enjoyed degrees of popularity over time, at times surpassing yellow gold’s allure. However, more than any other type of gold, yellow gold has had the greatest surge of popularity in the last year and a half. From editorial pieces to social media, there is a push in favor of wearing bold yellow gold jewelry. Influencers now wear layered yellow gold chains, bulky rings, 14k yellow gold paperclip earrings, and bracelets with gold charms.

Even engagement rings have been following the trend to reclaim the popularity of yellow gold settings alongside the more recently prevalent platinum and white gold rings. This resurgence of popularity makes sense! The precious metal is known for its rich gold color that is highly reflective and does not tarnish.

There is no better time to start growing your gold jewelry collection! Current gold jewelry styles favor clean lines, open metalwork, and geometric shapes – especially interlocking circles. These gold pieces look great as rings that can add elegance or be a bold statement. Gold nugget jewelry has also made a comeback, as a stellar unisex piece that adds texture and dimension to any outfit.

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, you’ll find an ever-changing selection of new and unique vintage gold jewelry. Our selection boasts an assortment of on-trend jewelry that will last beyond any fads.

Moonstone is One of June’s Birthstones!

2023-06-162023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

For most months you only get one birthstone, however those lucky enough to be born in June get three different birthstones! They are pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. If you’re a June baby or are simply shopping for one, you have a variety of choices when it comes to birthstone jewelry.

Each gemstone holds different meanings and symbolism. Not only is gifting birthstone jewelry a beautiful gesture, but it can also hold a deeper meaning which gives more sentimentality to the gift. Let’s dive into how each of June’s birthstones differ.

Moonstone: June's Mystical Birthstone

Last, but most certainly not least, is the moonstone. Ancient Romans believed moonstone was frozen moonlight. Pliny, the Roman historian, wrote that moonstone’s appearance shifted with the phases of the moon. According to Hindu mythology, this gemstone was created by solidified moonbeams. Now, we know moonstone isn’t actually from the moon. But what is it exactly?

Moonstone is a type of mineral feldspar, usually with a bluish tone. However, it can also be found in colors such as pink, yellow, green, and gray. The distinguishing characteristic of the moonstone is its adularescence, which is the light that appears to billow across the stone. This effect is reminiscent of a shimmering full moon peeking through a sky full of milky white clouds.

This June birthstone is perfect for any June-born with a love of all things cosmic and celestial. As its name suggests, moonstone is associated with lunar mystery and magic. In different lighting and at different angles, it truly does look like a little piece of the moon.

This shimmering gemstone is believed to have calming and balancing energy. Moonstone is also believed to be a “dream stone,” used to treat insomnia and sleepwalking, encourage sound sleep, and promote vivid dreams.

If you’re interested in owning or gifting pearl, alexandrite, or moonstone jewelry for a June birthday, visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. You’ll always find something spectacular in our vast collection of beautiful fine jewelry!

On the other hand, if you already own pearl, alexandrite, or moonstone jewelry that you need to get appraised for insurance or estate purposes, don’t hesitate to contact the San Diego Gemological Laboratory! Our independent appraiser, Elliot Grunwald, is a Graduate Gemologist from GIA.

Celebrate June Birthdays with Pearl Jewelry

2023-06-022023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

Most months typically only have one birthstone associated with them. But those born in the month of June are part of the lucky few who can claim multiple birthstones. In fact, there are three June birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Pearl is considered the more traditional June birthstone, and if you’re a June baby or shopping for one, then read more about June’s traditional birthstone.

Are you stuck with the notion that pearls are “grandma’s jewelry”? Well, we’re here to change your mind. Let’s take a moment to talk about how amazing pearls actually are. First, they are the only gemstone that comes from the ocean. Second, they are the only gemstone that is created by living creatures (marine oysters and freshwater mussels). And third, pearls are the only gemstone that do not need to be cut and polished; they are perfect just the way they are.

We can all agree that pearls have a classic, sophisticated appearance. They’ve been worn and adored for centuries by First Ladies, royalty, and other society matrons. But this doesn’t mean they can only be worn by those considered to be of an “elite class.” Pearls can be worn by anyone, at any age, and with any outfit. Another great thing about pearls is the wide variety of shapes and colors they come in. Each color symbolizes something different.

Pearl Colorings & Meanings

White pearls symbolize innocence, beauty, purity, and new beginnings.
Black or gold pearls symbolize wealth and prosperity.
Blue pearls symbolize love.
Pink pearls symbolize success, fame, and good fortune.
Brown pearls symbolize practicality, dependability, and harmony.

With the variety of colors, shapes, and meanings it’s easy to find the perfect pearl jewelry gift for your June-born loved one. However, pearls do require extra care compared to other gemstones because they’re so delicate. Pearls should always be the last thing you put on when getting dressed. This is to avoid any damage to these fragile gems from makeup, hairspray, perfume, and other cosmetics. Furthermore, pearls should always be wiped clean with a damp cloth after wearing to keep their luster and shine.

Store them separately from other jewelry in a soft jewelry case to avoid scratches, and away from heat or water (plain water won’t damage the pearls but can damage the string used to knot them into a necklace). And be sure to bring all your jewelry in to be regularly cleaned and inspected by our master jewelers!

It’s easy to find stunning birthday gifts at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Not only do we have pearl strands, rings, earrings, and bracelets for June, but we also have moonstone and alexandrite jewelry! You’ll always find something spectacular in our vast collection of beautiful fine jewelry.

Citrines Will Brighten Up Your Summer!

2023-05-232023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

Believed to carry the power of the sun, citrine is a warm and energizing gemstone. Named for the citron fruit, citrine is a quartz variety that appears in rich shades of yellow and orange.

This gorgeous gemstone is said to inspire imagination and creativity. It encourages its wearer to embark on new endeavors and enjoy unfamiliar experiences. The November birthstone is known as “The Merchant’s Stone,” as it is thought to help attract wealth and abundance.

When it comes to relationships, citrine can help resolve problems by increasing understanding and protecting against jealousy, resentment, and other unfavorable emotions. Citrine is colored yellow and orange by a trace of iron. Citrine crystals can form together with amethyst or smoky quartz to form a bi-colored quartz called ametrine.

Natural citrine can be found in Brazil, Russia, France, and Madagascar. The finest color gems come from Madeira, Brazil. The most desirable citrines display a reddish-orange color free of any brown tones. When not heat-treated to enhance their color, natural citrines are often deep, honey gold. Treated stones can be a dark orange-brown to reddish-brown.

Citrine is said to bring wealth into the house and alleviate nightmares if placed under the pillow. The sunny yellow stone can be worn to instantly lift a mood. It is the most popular yellow gemstone on the market today because of its availability in almost any size and shape. It was extremely popular in the Retro jewelry period of the 30’s and 40’s, where large stones were often set in rose gold and accented with small rubies.

Want to brighten up your jewelry collection with citrine? Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Avenue today to find bright and beautiful citrine jewelry. Our expert sales team is available to help you find the perfect summer gift for a loved one or a gift to treat yourself!

Celebrate May Birthdays with Emerald

2023-05-192023-12-09 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

2023-05-172023-12-09 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.