san diego - Leo Hamel

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.

How to Maintain Your Swiss-Made Watches

2023-06-142023-12-09 by Rylee Kahan

A fine Swiss watch can last for generations and still be running strong 100 years from now. Everyone considers cost, especially in this economy, but in the long run it can be more economical to buy a good Swiss watch. These will last for years rather than buying cheaper watches again and again.

Swiss watches are crafted with exacting care and subjected to rigorous quality control measures before being presented for sale. A fine watch is a wonderful heirloom to pass on to your children.

However, proper care is necessary for a fine timepiece to stay in optimum working condition and hold its value. Just like a car, a Swiss watch needs to get a regular tune up for its best performance. A full service is recommended every 3-5 years for maintenance.

Swiss-Made Watch Maintenance in San Diego

Our master watchmaker performs a full clean and overhaul, dismantling the timepiece to examine the movement and clean all parts. We provide an estimate for any worn parts that need to be replaced.

The movement will be lubricated and pressure tested, and the time-keeping adjusted and regulated. We also include a full exterior refinish, buffing and polishing the watch case and bracelet. This removes tiny scratches and makes it look good as new again.

Once your watch is in tip-top condition, keep your automatic watch on a watch winder whenever you’re not wearing it. A Wolf Design watch winder moves the watch in a circular pattern to approximate the human motions that keep the self-winding mechanism working.

Using a watch winder protects the longevity of your automatic watch. This is because it keeps the mainspring at its optimum tension and disperses the oils used for lubrication evenly while the watch is not on your wrist. It also keeps the watch running while you’re not wearing it. This means you won’t have to reset the time, day, and/or date when you wear it next!

A watch with a quartz or manual-wind movement doesn’t need a watch winder. Though it does need a nice watch holder for storage when you’re not wearing it, to prevent scratches, being dropped, or getting wet.

Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we have a broad selection of heirloom-quality Swiss watches for every taste and budget. Visit our showroom, just east of the 5 across from the airport, and our expert sales team will gladly help you find the perfect timepiece!

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!

Find Perfect Graduation Gifts at Leo Hamel’s!

2023-04-302023-12-09 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!

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

2023-04-272023-12-09 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?

2023-04-222023-12-09 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

2023-04-202023-12-09 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.