Celebrate July Birthdays with Rubies!

Antique yellow gold filigree earrings, ring, and necklace set with rubies.

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.

Moonstone is One of June’s Birthstones!

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.

Find the Perfect Mother’s Day Gift

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! This year, Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 14th. 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.

Spring Jewelry That You’ll Love

Winter is finally coming to an end! Spring is on its way so it’s time to pull all your bright and floral jewelry out of the box.

Having the right piece of jewelry can transform a look. Have some fun with your jewelry this spring. Wear an off-the-moment necklace or bracelet that bring a little personality to your style. Here’s a few pieces to spark some imagination and help you find the perfect jewelry this spring!

While you may tend to stick to more traditional styles, colorful gemstones make great spring jewelry pieces. They give a pop of color to your outfit to celebrate the better weather ahead.

If you want something versatile, floral jewelry is a staple for spring and an easy go-to.

Whimsical jewelry is a great option for adding to your spring style. If your spring outfits are a similar palette to your winter outfits, jewelry can help! Adding a fun piece of jewelry is a great way to jump into spring fashion.

Come into our showroom today to find the perfect spring jewelry. Our friendly team is happy to help you with any questions as well as show you all of our spring jewelry!