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Update Your Wardrobe with Yellow Gold Jewelry

2023-06-282024-05-24 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.

How to Maintain Your Swiss-Made Watches

2023-06-142024-05-24 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!

How to Pick Meaningful Jewelry

2023-05-172024-05-24 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.

Make the Most of Your Outfit with Accessories

2023-05-062024-05-24 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!

2023-04-302024-05-30 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!

Trendy Men’s Bands Your Groom Will Love

2023-04-052024-05-25 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!

Spring Jewelry That You’ll Love

2023-03-222024-05-25 by Rylee Kahan

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!

Engagement Rings

The holidays are quickly approaching, which means engagement season is upon us! Believe it or not, more than 40% of couples get engaged between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day each year. Perhaps it’s the cooler weather that ignites feelings of warmth and devotion, or maybe it’s the comfort of home and being together with family.

Regardless of reason, if you’re planning to propose to your sweetheart this holiday season, it’s a good time to do some homework. With so many engagement ring styles to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your options. Doing your own research before you shop can save you time and most importantly—money! Visit our engagement ring page to find out how you can save money on your next big purchase today.

https://www.jewelrystoresd.com/engagement/rings/san-diego/

Watch Repair

Time is a force that dictates much of our day to day lives. Hence, it is important that your favorite watch is working properly, so that you never miss a beat! Most fine watches are designed with durability in mind, meaning that with regular care and maintenance, your watch will last a lifetime and then some. But even the most luxurious timepiece will wear down with everyday use. Finding a trusted jeweler to repair your watch doesn’t have to be a hassle. Visit our watch repair page to learn more about how we can have your watch working like new in no time!

https://www.jewelrystoresd.com/repair/watches/

Jewelry Repair

Fine jewelry is as delicate as it is beautiful, a combination of precious gemstones and intricate metalwork melded together to make truly exquisite works of art. Such treasures are meant to endure for centuries, and many of them have. Did you know that several of the French Crown Jewels still exist today? Of course, this isn’t simply by chance. Fine jewelry will only maintain its grandeur when it is well cared for.

Just like a luxury car, or an expensive item of clothing, jewelry can sometimes require a little TLC. Which is why it’s necessary to find someone you trust to handle cleaning and repairing your fine jewelry. After all, you didn’t spend all that money just for your jewelry to sit in a drawer. Visit our jewelry repair page today to see how we can assist you with all of your jewelry repair needs, and more!

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