fine jewelry - Leo Hamel

Who Founded Tiffany & Co.?

2023-11-172024-05-24 by Rylee Kahan

Tiffany & Co. is one of the most universally recognized fine jewelry brands. Since it was founded in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has produced highly desirable necklaces, engagement rings, earrings, and other kinds of accessories. Collections such as Return to Tiffany®, Tiffany Infinity, and Tiffany Celebration® have earned the company status as an iconic American brand time after time. The distinct Tiffany blue color has become a symbol of fine jewelry, high-end fashion, and sophistication. That did it take to become one of world’s biggest brand names? There is more to the company’s history than meets the eye.

The Early Years of Tiffany & Co.

The premier jewelry store was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John F. Young. Originally, it was called Tiffany & Young. In 1853, Charles Tiffany bought out his partners, established sole control of the company, and renamed it as we know it today – Tiffany & Co.

In the beginning Tiffany and Young did not intend on selling jewelry. The store was opened as a “stationary and fancy goods” store with a $1,000 advance from Tiffany’s father. During the 1867 Paris World’s Fair, Tiffany & Co. was awarded the grand prize for silver craftsmanship. This marked the first time and American design house had been so highly honored by foreign peers.

Tiffany has been a valuable asset to America’s history for over 170 years. During the Civil War, Tiffany designed ceremonial swords as well as swords to be used in battle by soldiers. In 1885, Tiffany redesigned the Great Seal of the United States, which is displayed on the back of the dollar bill to this day.

Trademark Collection and Other Accesories & Adornments

Besides brilliantly stunning jewelry, Tiffany is also known for producing a variety of accessories. In the 1960s, Tiffany was commissioned to create the White House China for President Lyndon B. Johnson. Today, Tiffany has an entire line dedicated to accessories consisting of key rings, handbags, sunglasses, writing instruments and more.

One of Tiffany’s signature accessories if the Return to Tiffany® key rings. Introduced in 1969, eack key ring is inscribed with the message, “Please Return to Tiffany & Co., New York”. Each one has a unique registration number so if the key and owner are ever separated, they can be reunited at Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue flagship store. Now, the company has a whole collection devoted towards the iconic phrase, “Please Return to Tiffany & Co.”

Sports Trophies

One of the more surprising details of Tiffany’s history is how involved the brand is in the sporting world. Tiffany has been at the center of American sports since 1860, creating trophies for horse racing, the World Series, the Super Bowl, the Indianapolis 500, and more. The iconic brand also creates championship rings for the NFL, MLB, and USA Basketball.

Since Superbowl I in 1967, Tiffany & Co. has created each Vince Lombardi trophy. The trophy stands just under two feet tall at 22″, weighs over 7 pounds, and is adorned with a regulation-size football. While the first trophy was given to Vince Lombardi in 1967 after the Green Bay Packers victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, the trophy wasn’t the “Vince Lombardi Trophy” until his death in 1970.

Engagement Rings & Other Fine Jewelry

In 1886, Charles Tiffany had an epiphany about how engagement rings should be set. Rather than having an exceptional diamond hidden in a bezel setting, as was the fashion at the time, he decided that the diamond should stand out above the band, maximizing its brilliance. Thus, the creation of the Tiffany engagement ring became the engagement ring as we know it today.

Tiffany & Co. is also highly regarded for their yellow diamonds. Tiffany’s love for these rare and radiant diamonds dates to 1878 when Charles Tiffany purchased the 287.42-carat Tiffany Diamond. The priceless stone, one of the world’s most important diamonds, was cut into a cushion-shape brilliant weighing 128.54 carats and still resides at the trademark New York Tiffany location.

Tiffany’s reputation continued to flourish with the production of the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. This was allegedly the first time the store ever opened on a Sunday and allowed filming inside. During production, Tiffany hired 40 security guards to protect all the precious pieces.

Tiffany & Co. in San Diego

Whether you’re looking for a classic Return to Tiffany key ring, vintage Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti earrings, or unique Tiffany & Co. engagement rings, our vast vintage collection is bound to impress. Although we’re located on San Diego Avenue, not Fifth Avenue, we guarantee your experience will be just as remarkably high-class as Holly Golightly’s outing to Tiffany & Co. New York.

November Birthstones: Citrine & Topaz

2023-11-102024-05-24 by Rylee Kahan

November babies are lucky enough to have two beautiful birthstones: topaz and citrine. For centuries, the two gemstones have been confused since they have a similar appearance. However, there are a few distinct differences between the two November birthstones. Citrine, said to be a gift from the sun, ranges in color from lemon yellow to bright orangey brown. It is also said to be the “healing quartz” for its ability to comfort, soothe, and calm. Citrine is one of the most popular and affordable gemstones, making it a great choice for big, bold, statement pieces.

Topaz is also considered to be a soothing stone that can calm tempers and eliminate nightmares. Unlike citrine, topaz has a wider range of colors and is offered in shades of yellow, brown, green, blue, red, and pink. The most popular color of topaz is Imperial Topaz, which features a vibrant orange hue with pink undertones. Both gemstones are durable and are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Topaz and citrine’s beautiful colors make exceptional centerpieces for rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. If you’re looking for the perfect birthday gift for the November baby in your life, or maybe just a special holiday present, view some of our favorite November birthstone selections below.

Citrine & Diamond Dangle Earrings

The enchanting beauty of these pear-shaped citrine gemstones is perfectly complemented by yellow gold and diamond haloes in these charming dangle earrings.

Citrine & Diamond Ring

Bold and eye-catching, this oval citrine sparkles brilliantly in this vintage diamond halo ring.

Blue Topaz & Diamond Ring

Blue topaz is beautifully accented with shimmering diamonds in this delicate halo ring.

Smokey & Blue Topaz Necklace

The warm tones of this smokey topaz exquisitely complemented by blue topaz and white gold makes the perfect autumn gift.

Blue Topaz & Diamond Earrings

Mesmerizing blue topaz stuns in company with glittering diamonds in these unique and intricately designed carved earrings.

Looking for the perfect November birthstone gift? If you’re interested in any of these gorgeous pieces or would like to view more citrine and topaz new and vintage jewelry selections, visit our showroom on San Diego Avenue to find the perfect gift for the November birthday celebrator in your life.

What Makes Colored Diamond Jewelry So Unique?

2023-10-172024-05-24 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

2023-08-042024-05-24 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!

Tips for Designing the Perfect Engagement Ring

2023-06-302024-05-31 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

2023-06-282024-05-24 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.

Celebrate June Birthdays with Pearl Jewelry

2023-06-022024-05-24 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.

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!