Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Tips for Layering Necklaces like a Pro

The effortless layered necklace look can be a challenge for even the most experienced fashionistas to achieve. But nothing adds to an ensemble quite like luxe layering necklaces in an array of shapes, sizes, and styles. Curious how you can get creative with a sophisticated stack of necklaces? Check out these tips for layering necklaces to pull off this trend like a pro!

The Rule of Three

image of three layering necklaces

To get the most from the layered necklace look, we recommend combining at least three pieces of varying lengths. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should limit yourself if you wish to wear more! In our expert opinion, bolder is always better. A greater variety of textures, colors, and materials will ensure you never grow tired of this trend.

Mix & Match Styles

image of layered necklaces

The trick to layering necklaces with balance and ease is to mix and match different styles. Pair a delicate pendant necklace with a chunky gold choker necklace, and finish off the look with a long lariat. Introduce a pop of color with charms or eye-catching enamel. Or, personalize your necklace stack with a signature symbol you love to wear, like an anchor or infinity sign. Draw attention to your décolletage with diamonds or other glittering gemstones.

Play with Different Lengths

image of different length layering necklaces

Necklaces are available in a variety of lengths that’re ideal for layering. To create a cascade effect that ensures each piece stands out, we suggest layering necklaces of different lengths. It’s easiest to work from top to bottom, starting with a choker or princess length, and building from that as your base.

Layered Necklace Lengths

  • Choker: 14-16 inches
  • Princess: 18 inches
  • Matinee: 20-24 inches
  • Opera: 30 inches
  • Ropes & Lariats: 35 inches or more

Combine Contrasting Metals

image of two tone layering necklaces

In case you haven’t heard, mixing metals is the trend that keeps on trending. From two-toned watches to mixed metal engagement rings, this craze has touched every type of jewelry. Once considered a taboo, it’s now perfectly acceptable to combine contrasting metals when styling your jewelry. There are a couple of ways to achieve this look. You can either opt for individual pieces of different metals, like platinum or yellow gold. Or, you can select a piece that blends multiple metals together, such as a braided chain, or contrasting pendant.

Don’t Overthink It

image of layering necklaces with white tee

The secret to styling layering necklaces? Don’t overthink it! There’s truly no right or wrong way to showcase your neckwear, so just have fun with it. Think of layering necklaces as a chance to flaunt your unique taste in fashion, whether your style is vibrant and colorful, or elegant and understated. After all, jewelry is an expression of your individuality, so be sure to make the look entirely your own.

How to Layer Necklaces without Tangling

Throughout the day, layered necklaces will inevitably intertwine. So, it only makes sense that you may be wondering how to prevent your beautiful baubles from turning into a tangled mess. Avoid this annoyance by choosing chains of different thicknesses, as they’re less likely to become twisted and tangled together. Also, styling your necklace stack so that each piece is separated by a little length will ensure your jewels don’t jumble. If you’ve already noticed knots, your best bet is using a pointed object, such as a pin or needle to tease out any tangles.

Find Lavish Layering Necklaces at Leo’s!

The best place to find chic layering necklaces for less is San Diego’s #1 jewelry store, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! We have an incredible selection of fine jewelry, from necklaces to bracelets, and everything in between. Shop lavish layering necklaces bedecked with dazzling diamonds, or explore chunky layered chains that’ll help you stand out and make a statement. No matter your personal style, you’re sure to find layering necklaces you’ll love at Leo’s!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/03/tips-for-layering-necklaces-like-a-pro/

Thursday, March 5, 2020

How to Set a Watch: Tips & Tricks for Daylight Saving Time

It’s that time of year again—the days are growing colder and shorter which means daylight saving time is just around the corner. This year, on March 8th, most people in the United States (with the exception of Arizona and Hawaii) will observe the time change and set their clocks forward by one hour. And you can’t forget about your watch, too! It’s important to take proper care when setting a watch, as its many gears and gadgets can be fragile. In this article, we’ll explain step by step how to set a watch for daylight saving time so that you don’t damage its sensitive instruments.

Tips for Setting Your Watch

image of setting a watch

  1. Remove the watch before adjusting. This may seem like a small step, but it’s a very important one. Wearing your watch while winding puts stress on the winding stem and can potentially loosen the crown because of the awkward angle at which it’s positioned.
  1. Don’t over-wind the watch. When setting your watch, you’ll feel a tiny bit of resistance once the watch is fully wound. Don’t continue winding past this point, as it can permanently damage the mainspring.
  1. Set the watch forward, rather than backwards. While it may be tempting to turn your watch hand in a counterclockwise direction, it is not recommended as it can force and damage the watch’s movement.
  1. Properly push the crown back in. Make sure the watch’s crown is well tightened when complete.
  1. Set the watch at a specific time. Do not set a mechanical watch between the hours of 9 PM and 2 AM. Because the watch will already be in the process of changing the date, forcing it to do so can harm the movement.

Timepieces with additional complications such as a perpetual calendar, chronograph, or tachymeter can be especially tricky to adjust, so we recommend using extra caution. When you’re not wearing your watch, it’s still important to wind every two to three weeks to prevent its internal oils and lubricants from thickening and impairing the watch’s function.

Watch Repair San Diego

If you’re still uncertain how to set a watch after reading these tips, no need to worry! Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, our friendly repair team is happy to help you set your watch for daylight saving time. Have you tried setting your watch and think you may have accidentally damaged it in the process? Don’t stress—bring your watch to Leo Hamel’s and one of our expert watchmakers will have it working like new again in no time. Think you know how to wind a watch, but need a bit of guidance? We’d be happy to demonstrate for you, so you can be confident caring for your watch at home. Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is your one stop shop for all of your watch needs!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/03/how-to-set-a-watch-tips-tricks-for-daylight-saving-time/

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Talisman Jewelry: Symbols of Love, Luck & Good Fortune

Talisman jewelry has been worn for centuries, as a means of protection, luck, good fortune, and much more. Also known as amulets, totems, or good luck charms, talismans are worn to project one’s present feelings, as well as their hopes for the future. Whether you seek wealth, love, success, or something else, there’s a piece of talisman jewelry that’s ideal for you! 

Types of Talisman Jewelry

When it comes to types of talisman jewelry, there’s no shortage of unique symbols to choose from. Drawing influence from wildlife, world currency, and even the cosmos, talismans often have spiritual significance to a variety of cultures. The following are some of the most well-known talismans and their meanings:

Bees

images of bee jewelry

Honeybees are a remarkable species, responsible for pollinating the majority of crops we rely on for food. From apples to almonds, bees help plants to grow and reproduce, making them incredibly important for sustaining the cycle of life. These industrious insects have appeared in artwork for centuries, such as tapestries, architecture, and even fine jewelry. Bees are also commonly associated with royalty, thanks to Napoleon Bonaparte of France, who named them an imperial symbol during the 19th century. Evidence of Napoleon’s admiration for these crafty creatures can be found in personal portraits of the emperor. For his coronation day, Napoleon wore magnificent red robes adorned with gold bees. And in a separate portrait by Jacques-Louis David, you might spot a gilt chair covered in fabric that’s bedecked with buzzing bees. An everlasting emblem of hard work and cooperation, bees make an excellent choice to wear as talisman jewelry. Wear with you to school, work, or wherever else you may be tasked to work as a team.

Elephants

image of elephant talisman jewelry

Besides being downright adorable, elephants symbolize wisdom and lots of luck. In Hindu culture, the elephant god, Ganesh, is celebrated for delivering good fortune, abundance, and clearing one’s path of unwanted obstacles. These magnificent mammals have long served as a symbol in talisman jewelry, bestowing the bearer with favorable qualities like strength and honor. Do you have a loved one graduating or embarking on a new career? Give them the gift of good luck with a charming elephant ring or pendant.

The Evil Eye

image of evil eye ring

Prominent in Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu cultures, the evil eye is one of history’s best recognized talismans. The sinister stare of the evil eye is said to protect its wearer from the malicious glares of envious enemies, and the harm they wish to inflict. Evil eye talismans are classified as apotropaic, Greek for prophylactic, which means to protect or turn away. When misery or suffering is cast upon its wearer, the evil eye will reflect malevolence back to the one wishing harm. Though the evil eye means something slightly different to each culture, it’s universally accepted as a cursed symbol intended to bring wickedness to one’s life. Shield yourself from the stress and negative energy of others with a priceless piece of evil eye talisman jewelry.

The Hamsa Hand

image of hamsa hand talisman jewelry

You’ve surely seen jewelry in the shape of an open hand, better known as the hamsa. Similar to the evil eye, the hamsa protects its wearer from the evil glances and ill wishes of others. In Islam, the symbol is known as the Hand of Fatima, and in Christian and Jewish cultures, it’s referred to as the Hand of Miriam. While commonly called the hamsa hand, you may also see it spelled hamesh, chamsa, or khamsa. Hamsa hand jewelry can take on different meanings, depending on how it’s worn. When the hand is worn facing upwards, it’s a sign to ward off evil. However, when worn facing down, the hamsa hand inspires abundance, good fortune, and exciting opportunities. It’s even believed that a hamsa with the fingers pointed downward is a talisman for fertility. Hamsa hand jewelry makes a treasured talisman for someone seeking safety on a new adventure, or those wishing to welcome a child in the near future. 

The Moon & Stars

image of star bracelet

Celestial-inspired jewelry is arguably one of the most enduring talisman trends, with a variety of different meanings. People have long looked to the moon and stars for insight about themselves, and for guidance through life’s inevitable challenges. Earth’s moon is in a constant state of change, alternating between various phases. So, it’s no wonder it’s recognized as a symbol of rebirth and regeneration, embodying the ever-changing cycles of life. During the Victorian era, it was common for newly engaged couples to receive crescent moon jewelry, as a representation of their love “waxing” into something even more deep and devout. The moon specifically is said to embody a fierce feminine power, and is even revered as a divine female deity in civilizations passed. Celebrate the woman that inspires you most with a gift that’s out of this world, such as a delicate moon pendant or star stud earrings that sparkle like the night’s sky.

Wishbones

Most people are familiar with the age old tradition of breaking a wishbone for luck. This custom dates back to early Etruscan cultures in Italy, and is intended to inspire fertility, prosperity, and all-around good fortune. When you break the wishbone, whoever breaks off the bigger piece is thought to reap the rewards. However, wishbones in their complete form are still quite lucky, and actually inspired the phrase “get a lucky break.” Wearing a wishbone encourages endless possibility, and hope for the future. For this reason, wishbone jewelry is the perfect choice for a loved one beginning a new career, or uprooting to a new home.

Four-Leaf Clovers

image of four leaf clover pendant

Few symbols are as synonymous with good luck as the four-leaf clover. Considered the ultimate lucky charm, the four-leafed clover is hallmark of Irish culture, and often attributed to St. Patrick’s Day. The symbol is said to embody many meanings, with each of the four leaves representing either faith, hope, love, or luck. With a 1 in 10,000 chance of discovering a four-leaf clover of your own, you’re better off opting for a precious piece of talisman jewelry instead. One of the most beloved clover jewelry collections belongs to renowned luxury retailer, Van Cleef & Arpels, and is known as the Alhambra collection. Glamorous Hollywood icon, Grace Kelly, was a famous fan of the Alhambra collection, and was known to wear several pieces at a time. Shroud yourself or a loved one in strength, courage, and hope with the help of a piece of four-leafed clover jewelry!

Coins

image of coin jewelry

Coins are a popular centerpiece for pendants, rings, and bracelets alike. One might assume that wearing coins is simply intended to bring the wearer wealth, but really, they represent so much more. During Queen Victoria’s reign, a new tradition was established of gifting brides-to-be with a coin to ensure a happy marriage filled with love and luck. In fact, many people don’t know that the expression “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” actually ends with the final line, “…and a sixpence in her shoe.” Coin jewelry is often modeled after ancient currency, like that of the Greeks or Romans. Believed to bring security, abundance, and lots of luck to their wearer, coin jewelry makes an excellent gift for weddings, or to celebrate a career milestone.

Find Treasured Talisman Jewelry at Leo’s!

Curious where you can find a treasured talisman to carry with you wherever you go? 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!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/02/talisman-jewelry-symbols-of-love-luck-good-fortune/

Thursday, February 6, 2020

Fascinating Facts About Engagement Rings

To most people, engagement rings are more than just jewelry. They are symbols of love and commitment that should be chosen carefully to match the wearer’s personality. In fact, the process of choosing a ring can be extremely overwhelming. That’s why reading about some interesting engagement ring facts is the perfect opportunity to take a break from all the preparations!

Whether you’re wondering “where can I find a stunning engagement ring near me”, want to learn why we wear engagement and wedding rings or wish to find out when engagement rings became popular, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we love giving our customers all the engagement ring-related info their hearts desire. Read on!    

What are some interesting engagement ring facts? 

There’s so much you can learn about engagement rings, from the proper engagement ring etiquette to the most expensive ring ever sold. Here are 17 intriguing facts about engagement rings you are sure to love:      

  1. It is believed that engagement rings originated in Ancient Egypt, where their shape was thought to symbolize eternity. 
  2. In Ancient Rome, women often wore two rings – a gold one to be worn outside, for everyone to see, and an iron one to wear at home.
  3. It is thought that Archduke Maximilian I of Austria was the first person to give a diamond engagement ring. In 1477, he proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a ring adorned with an M-shaped diamond. 
  4. Different countries have different engagement ring customs. In the U.S., engagement rings are typically worn on the left hand while in Russia and India, they are worn on the right. 
  5. However surprising it may sound, only around 35 percent of engagement rings are bought without the fiancé’s knowledge. 
  6. The most popular engagement ring shape is a round or brilliant-cut diamond. The second place goes to princess cut gemstones. 
  7. While yellow gold used to be the most common choice, white gold and platinum have now become the most popular engagement and wedding ring alloys.
  8. Until recently, engagement rings were chosen by men to be worn by women. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for men to involve their girlfriends in the selection process or even wear engagement rings themselves!   
  9. The word “diamond” originated from the Greek word “adamas”, meaning the “hardest substance” or “hardest steel.”
  10.  Around 2,000 couples get engaged at Disney World each year. The Statue of Liberty is another popular choice, with around one hundred couples taking the ferry there to get engaged. 
  11. December is the most popular month to get engaged. 
  12. Colorless diamonds are by far the most popular engagement ring stones, although colored diamonds have increased in popularity in recent years. 
  13. Diamonds are the most durable gemstone, ranking 10 on the Mohs Scale. 
  14. Rubies and sapphires are also quite popular and durable, ranking 9 on the Mohs Scale.
  15. Emeralds, on the other hand, aren’t the most sturdy option, being quite fragile and brittle. 
  16. Even though diamonds, especially when paired with platinum, are extremely tough, they still require a bit of maintenance, so expert check-ups are recommended. 
  17. Experts recommend taking your engagement ring off when playing sports, swimming, showering, or doing any other activity that may damage the ring. 

Where can I find the perfect engagement ring near me? 

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, of course! We boast an incredible selection of wedding and engagement rings of all shapes and sizes. What’s more, you can also share your design ideas with us and get a custom-made engagement ring that fits your personality perfectly. We are conveniently located on San Diego Avenue, so don’t hesitate to stop by on your way to Balboa Park. We’d love to make you happy by helping you find the engagement ring that checks all the boxes. Visit us today!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/02/interesting-engagement-ring-facts/

Engagement Ring Etiquette Guide

Not sure how to wear your engagement ring? We know, engagement ring traditions can get a bit confusing, considering that most customs differ from one country to another. In fact, there are at least 7 different engagement ring customs from all around the globe! That is why we’ve prepared this useful engagement ring etiquette guide to help clear away the confusion. 

As the provider of the finest engagement rings of San Diego, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers loves sharing interesting engagement ring facts with you. Keep reading to learn more! 

Can you wear your engagement ring on the right hand?

The history of engagement rings is long and rich. From Ancient Rome to the 21st century, we’ve worn our wedding and engagement rings on the fourth finger of the left hand, because it was once believed that this finger had a vein that ran straight to the heart, the Vein of Love. While we now know that that isn’t true, the practice still persists.     

Nowadays, ladies tend to wear their engagement rings on the left hand and move the ring to the right on their wedding day so that their fiancé can place the wedding ring closest to their heart. Then, they typically move the engagement ring back to the left hand, on top of the wedding ring. But can you wear the engagement ring on the right hand all the time? 

Believe it or not, wearing the engagement ring on the right hand is actually a popular choice in many countries, including Russia and Greece and a number of other Orthodox Christian communities. So, if you feel like wearing your engagement or wedding ring on the right hand, feel free to do so!  

Do men wear engagement rings?

For a long time, it’s been customary for men to present the woman they love with an engagement ring as a promise of marriage. On the day of the wedding, the husband and wife exchange wedding bands and from then on, both spouses have rings to wear. But what about engagement rings? Why don’t men wear them too? 

The original meaning of an engagement ring was to signify the man’s ownership of the woman. Luckily, engagement rings no longer have this meaning. Instead, they are now a symbol of commitment and true love, meaning that both the man and the woman have freely chosen to spend their lives together. 

Although most men still choose not to wear a ring, there are some who want to show their love this way regardless of what engagement ring tradition dictates. Fortunately, men no longer have to shy away from such representations of love since they have become much more acceptable in today’s society. In a nutshell, whether a man decides to wear an engagement ring or not is a matter of personal preference. 

Looking for stunning engagement rings in San Diego? We’re #1! 

While engagement and wedding ring customs have remained the same for a long time, that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t add a personal touch if we choose to do so. After all, your engagement and marriage are a completely personal matter, so why not spice things up? 

No matter how imaginative your engagement ideas may be, the seasoned craftsmen at Leo Hamel can turn them into reality. Stop by our luxurious store near Downtown San Diego and discover the ring you’ve always dreamed of!  



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/02/wear-engagement-ring-right-hand-men/

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him & Her

The holiday season may be over, but if you’re lucky and in love, there’s still one celebration left to look forward to—Valentine’s Day! If you wish to truly impress your loved one this Valentine’s Day, we suggest splurging on more than just flowers and chocolate. Declare your love and devotion with a gift your sweetheart can treasure for a lifetime, like an eye-catching new watch, or radiant diamond ring. Stuck pondering the perfect gift for your significant other? Don’t despair! Your better half is sure to be impressed by these remarkable Valentine’s Day gifts:

New Tissot Carson Premium

image of tissot watch valentine's day gifts for him

Nothing ties an outfit together like a chic wristwatch. Help your man step up his everyday style with this Tissot Carson Premium watch. Crafted from sturdy stainless steel, this watch features a bold black dial and traditional Roman numeral hour indexes, for a classic and cool appearance. As an added bonus, this trendy timepiece won’t break the bank, costing just $340.

Vintage Chanel CC Wallet

image of chanel wallet valentine's day gifts for her

A surefire way to woo your woman is to surprise her with something designer. This like-new Chanel wallet is one gift she’s sure to love. Chanel’s classic quilted pattern is beautifully complemented by a jeweled interlocking ‘C’ logo. The silky satin material makes this Chanel wallet wearable for day or evening, while its petite size is perfect for carrying only the essentials.

New Victorinox Swiss Army Spartan Pocket Knife

image of swiss army pocket knife valentine's day gifts

A newcomer to the Spartan series, the Victorinox Spartan PS pocket knife is one multi-tool he won’t want to live without. Sporting a sleek new design, the Spartan PS has black tools that are achieved through a process known as Polispectral. The black on black design makes this pocket knife as stylish as it is useful. The knife’s unique finish produces a mirror-like effect, causing the color to vary in different lights. As if that weren’t cool enough, the Spartan PS boasts 12 handy functions to assist him with just about anything.

New Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance

image of victorinox watch for her

This Valentine’s Day, spoil your sweetheart with a sophisticated watch she’ll want to wear everywhere. The Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance makes an excellent choice, with delightful details she’ll ogle over. Its mesmerizing mother-of-pearl dial is fitted with Swarovski crystals that sparkle from every angle. She’s also sure to love the two-tone bracelet, which will easily match with whatever jewelry she chooses to wear.

Vintage David Yurman Streamline ID Bracelet

image of david yurman bracelet for him

In case you haven’t heard, men’s jewelry is having a major moment. This David Yurman Streamline ID bracelet is the ideal balance of modernity and masculinity. Yurman is a pioneer when it comes to men’s jewelry, and his ID bracelets are a top choice for sharp dressers everywhere. For an extra special touch, add an engraving, like his initials or your anniversary date.

New Madison L Diamond Ring

image of yellow gold diamond ring

Want to shower your loved one with diamonds, but aren’t quite ready to spring for an engagement ring? This dainty diamond ring from Madison L makes the perfect promise ring that’s sure to take her breath away. The three-stone design is symbolic for a couple’s past, present, and future, and is a romantic tribute to your unique love story. The diamonds are offset by a lustrous yellow gold setting and beaded band for a look that’s truly one-of-a-kind. 

New Deakin & Francis Silver Yacht Cufflinks

image of yacht cufflinks gifts for him

Are you on the hunt for unique Valentine’s Day gifts for him? Look no further than these Deakin & Francis Yacht cufflinks. What’s more splendid than lounging on a luxurious yacht, and enjoying the salty sea breeze? Living in sunny San Diego, such indulgences are right within reach, with several breathtaking bays to enjoy. This pair of nautical themed cufflinks is sure to inspire his inner sailor, and have him hungering for the open ocean.

New Madison L Ruby & Diamond Drop Necklace

image of ruby and diamond necklace

What better way to say “I love you” than extraordinary ruby jewelry? Red rubies are an enduring emblem of passion and romance, revered for centuries by nearly every civilization. This Madison L necklace beautifully pairs rubies and diamonds to create a truly jaw dropping combination. She’ll be eager to wear this elegant drop necklace with her best formal dress, so be sure to follow up your surprise with an evening out on the town.  

Find the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gifts at Leo’s!

Don’t wait till the last minute to find a Valentine’s Day gift your spouse will love! Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Avenue, and let one of our helpful salespeople steer you in the right direction. We’ll help you find a great gift that’ll fit your loved one’s style, and even better, that’ll fit your budget! What’re you waiting for? Call or visit us today!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/valentines-day-gifts-for-him-her/

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Fascinating January Birthstone Facts

Garnet is a glittering red gem that also happens to be the birthstone for January. Both abundant and affordable, garnet actually refers to a group of minerals with a similar chemical composition. The most common types of garnet include almandine, andradite, spessartine, and pyrope, among others. Each of these variations has a unique appearance that makes them incredibly attractive for use in jewelry. With such diversity, and a storied history as vibrant as its color, it’s no wonder garnet is so well-loved. For extra insight into this incredible gemstone, keep reading to discover more fascinating January birthstone facts!

image of january birthstone facts

Garnet History

Garnets have been cherished since the Bronze Age, revered for their deep color and durability. Evidence of their illustriousness can be found in countless cultures, dating as far back as the biblical era. Necklaces adorned with garnets were worn by ancient Egyptian pharaohs, and the wealthy nobility of the Victorian era were particularly partial to these rich red gems. According to the Jewish Talmud, Noah’s ark was lit by a single garnet stone. Regarded as a Warrior’s Stone during the Middle Ages, garnet was worn as a talisman by Christian crusaders, ensuring safety and protection over long journeys.

Garnet Care

image of garnet necklace

Garnet is a fairly durable gemstone, and can last a lifetime when cared for properly. With a rating of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, garnet is an ideal gemstone for jewelry. Only those items with a higher Mohs rating will scratch the surface of garnet. That being said, jewelry like earrings and pendants will be less susceptible to damage than say a garnet ring, which will encounter more wear and tear.

Unlike other gemstones, garnets are generally sold without any additional treatments. Most naturally occurring garnets are saturated enough in color, that further gemstone treatments are not necessary. Occasionally, garnets are fracture filled, which simply means that any surface scratches are smoothed over with a glass-like substance.

To clean your garnet jewelry, use a soft bristled brush and a bit of warm soapy water to gently remove dirt and buildup. Avoid steam cleaners, and be cautious of ultrasonic cleaners if your stone has been fracture filled.

Garnet Meaning & Symbolism

image of january birthstone ring

The name garnet is derived from the Latin word granatus, which means seeds or grains. The name was likely given because garnets closely resemble the tiny red seeds you’d find in a pomegranate. Garnet is said to symbolize long lasting love and friendship, and according to Greek mythology, can ensure the safe reunion of two parted lovers. In the Medieval period, garnet was worn to ward off nightmares. Some well-known attributes of garnet include passion, fidelity, loyalty, devotion, consistency, and truth. Wearing garnet is said to sharpen one’s self-perception, as well as their understanding of others.

Garnet Healing Properties

Throughout history, garnet has been associated with various healing practices. The gem’s intense red color has been compared to that of blood, which is why they’ve been used for treating different blood and inflammatory diseases. They’re also helpful in ridding your body of harmful toxins that can result in illness. Garnet has also been used as a tool to treat depression, break old habits and patterns, and to jolt the heart to encourage introspection and self-awareness.

Purchasing Garnet

image of garnet ring

Garnet jewelry makes a superb gift for celebrating a friendship, a January birthday, or a 2nd wedding anniversary. When purchasing garnet jewelry, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, garnets come in a range of colors other than red, including green, pink, and even blue. While garnet is fairly affordable, unusual colors are rarer, and therefore more expensive.

Some garnets have inclusions that are thought to actually enhance the stone’s beauty, like “horsetails” that occur in demantoid garnets, or the “turbulent” appearance of hessonite garnets. Don’t be instantly deterred by these inclusions, as they only add to the gem’s uniqueness and charm. 

If you’re shopping for antique jewelry, be aware that some pieces contain a dark red glass that was used in place of garnet. In these cases, it’s best to have the item tested for authenticity before finalizing your purchase.

Shop Gorgeous Garnet Jewelry in San Diego

Curious where you can find splendid garnet jewelry for the perfect price? Your search is over! At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we carry a wide selection of gorgeous gemstone jewelry from sapphire to garnet, and everything in between. Our offering includes pieces that are new, vintage, and even antique, so there’s never any shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for something trendy and up-to-date, or prefer a piece that’s more timeless and traditional, you’re sure to find something you love at Leo’s!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/fascinating-january-birthstone-facts/

Tips for Layering Necklaces like a Pro

The effortless layered necklace look can be a challenge for even the most experienced fashionistas to achieve. But nothing adds to an ensemb...