Diamond Diving

Diamond mining is a multi-billion dollar industry, with countries like Australia and South Africa being key producers. The world’s diamond supply seems endless, but eventually these precious gems will become much scarcer. Some even predict major diamond mines to be depleted within the next 20-50 years, which is why mining companies like DeBeers are turning to alternative sources for retrieving diamonds, in order to maintain a robust reserve. These alternatives include scouring the deep seas for diamonds that have come to rest on the ocean floor.

Believe it or not, some experts say there could be as much as 1.5 billion carats of diamonds waiting to be discovered off the coast of South Africa. DeBeers has invested a great deal of money in machinery that can extract the diamonds safely and efficiently. They use what is essentially a large vacuum to gather several stones at a time. The diamond deposits located off the coast of Namibia are home to some of the highest quality gemstones in the world, making this a particularly desirable area for mining.

Diving for Diamonds  

This practice will become increasingly commonplace as the diamond mining industry slowly transitions from traditional methods to more advanced ones. In addition to growing the mining industry, these new techniques are also effecting change in tourism trends. Diamond safaris are a luxe attraction for tourists visiting the southern coast of Africa. Yes, you read that correctly. Diamond diving, also known as diamond safaris, allow visitors the once in a lifetime chance to mine their very own diamond from the sediment of the seabed.

As if that weren’t cool enough, these excursions include a limousine ride, a private flight, breakfast and lunch accommodations at a luxurious coastal villa, and as much South African wine as you can consume. Visitors are accompanied by master divers who will assist you in excavating your rough diamond from the depths of the ocean and returning it to the surface. You’re guaranteed to find one of these precious gems, and if you’re lucky, you may even uncover a garnet or olivine.

Once your diamonds have been unearthed, you’ll choose which to have cut and polished. Then, as you enjoy the rest of your vacation, your rough diamond is transformed into a dazzling, lustrous gem. You’ll return home from your holiday with incredible memories and a souvenir unlike any other. In addition to being a unique, once in a lifetime experience, these diamonds are 100% conflict-free, meaning you don’t have to be uncertain about its origins or whether it was ethically sourced.

If you’re planning a trip to Africa, and are ready to splurge on an out of the ordinary experience, consider a diamond safari. If predictions are true, and the availability of diamonds does in fact decline, this opportunity may not be around for long!

Shop for Diamonds Close to Home

If diving for diamonds doesn’t sound like your idea of a good time, perhaps shopping for them does. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we carry diamonds of all shapes and sizes—and for every budget! Visit our San Diego jewelry store today and browse our selection of diamond jewelry. Whether shopping for an engagement or other special occasion, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at Leo’s.

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/03/diamond-diving/

The Tiffany Yellow Diamond: The Most Expensive Jewel Ever Worn to the Oscars

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, by now you’ve probably seen the massive Tiffany yellow diamond that Lady Gaga wore this past weekend at the 2019 Academy Awards. Besides it’s tremendous size and sparkle, this diamond has a vibrant history dating back to its discovery in 1877. The diamond was last worn by Audrey Hepburn in 1961 during a promotional photo shoot for Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and has spent the interim displayed on the Main Floor of Tiffany & Co.’s flagship Fifth Avenue store. For those who tuned in to the Academy Awards, it was impossible not to notice the beautiful, grand diamond around Gaga’s neck, and the buzz it instantly generated. With so much talk and interest in the spectacular Tiffany yellow diamond, we thought it would be fitting to take a closer look at how it came to be the legendary jewel that it is today.

History of the Tiffany Diamond

Image source

The Tiffany yellow diamond was originally discovered in South Africa in 1877, and weighed an astonishing 287.42 carats in its rough form. Just one year later, Charles Lewis Tiffany secured the diamond for a mere $18,000, far less than its current estimated worth of $30 million. The stone traveled back to Paris where Tiffany & Co.’s renowned gemologist, Dr. George Frederick Kunz, oversaw the cutting of the diamond into a radiant, cushion-shaped gem with some impressive specs. The cut and polished finished product weighs in at 128.54 carats and boasts 82 extraordinary facets that amplify its beauty and rich color. The Tiffany yellow diamond has become somewhat of an American treasure, and has traveled around the world for various exhibitions and showcases. Lady Gaga is one of only three women who’ve had the privilege of wearing this exquisite and elusive gemstone for a public event. The first was Mrs. Mary Whitehouse, the wife of an American diplomat, who wore the jewel to the 1957 Tiffany Ball in Rhode Island. Just four years later, the diamond was set in Jean Schlumberger’s Ribbon Rosette necklace, and worn by Hollywood starlet Audrey Hepburn while promoting her film, Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Is the Tiffany Yellow Diamond for Sale?

Though the Tiffany yellow diamond is not presently for sale, and likely never will be, this wasn’t always the case. In 1972, Tiffany & Co. placed an ad in the New York Times, offering the diamond for sale for $5 million, the equivalent of nearly $26 million in today’s dollars. The catch? The diamond would only be available for 24 hours, so anyone interested had to act fast. As you might imagine, there were no serious buyers, and the diamond became a permanent part of the brand’s jewelry archives.

The 175^th Anniversary Tiffany Diamond Necklace

Image source

In 2012, Tiffany & Co. celebrated 175 years as a leader in fine jewelry. To mark the occasion, the Tiffany yellow diamond was reset in a breathtaking necklace with over 100 carats of glittering white diamonds. This same necklace was fitted for Lady Gaga to wear to the 2019 Oscars, where she channeled her inner Audrey in an elegant, black Alexander McQueen gown and glamorous gloves. She tied the look together with white and yellow diamond drop earrings that perfectly matched her necklace. Prior to the Tiffany Diamond’s red-carpet debut, the most expensive jewel ever worn to the Oscars was the blue Harry Winston diamond necklace that was modeled after the Titanic’s Heart of the Ocean, which was estimated to be worth $20 million.

Shop Tiffany & Co. and more at Leo Hamel’s

Though you may not be able to score the Tiffany Diamond for yourself, there’s a wealth of other Tiffany jewels to ogle over and enjoy. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego, we carry a selection of vintage Tiffany jewelry from beloved collections like the Elsa Peretti Open Heart collection, or the Atlas collection. Searching for something special? Let us know what you’re looking for, and we can help you find it! Because we buy jewelry in addition to selling, we are always receiving new, one-of-a-kind items to fill our showroom. Stop by our store today to explore all that we have to offer!

* All images courtesy of The Adventurine

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/the-tiffany-yellow-diamond/

Top Reasons to Purchase Chanel Earrings

Coco Chanel is an iconic figure who’s had an enduring impact on how we perceive fashion. Her creations, ranging from the world-famous tweed jackets to one-of-a-kind accessories, ushered in a new fashion era of classic elegance.

Chanel’s unique eye for style is especially evident from their earrings, particularly their vintage pearl earrings and short drop-downs. Chanel earrings are still highly sought after around the world, serving as proof of the brand’s everlasting appeal.

If you haven’t already started searching for “Chanel earrings near me,” here are a few irrefutable reasons why you simply have to add a pair to your jewelry collection.

Classic & Timeless Designs

Even though it was more than a century ago that Chanel set a standard for elegance, the impact of this universally loved brand has remained steady throughout the years. There are very few brands that can claim such a powerful influence on the fashion industry and the way we value fashion.

Chanel is an instantly recognizable brand almost anywhere in the world. Chanel’s brand recognition is propelled by the interlocking ‘’C’’ design, but even the items that don’t feature this emblem can be easily recognized as Chanel.

Even though new Chanel-style imitation jewelry is widely available today for rather cheap, the demand for authentic Chanel earrings is stronger than ever. Not only do people want to own real Chanel, many covet the original designs.

Durability

While epithets such as ‘’elegant’’ and ‘’sophisticated’’ often come to mind when you think of Chanel, it’s also important to note that Chanel jewelry was designed to last. That is especially true for genuine Chanel earrings. Not only can you style just about any outfit with a pair of Chanel earrings, you can also wear them for almost any occasion without fear of damaging or breaking them. Provided, of course, you have an authentic pair.

Because of the circulation of fake Chanel jewelry, it’s often safest to shop for vintage Chanel earrings, rather than opting for a new pair. Reputable jewelers like Leo Hamel’s ensure that all vintage jewelry they acquire is 100% genuine, so when you come to the store to purchase a pair of Chanel earrings, you know you are buying an original.

Chanel Earrings Hold Value

Chanel jewelry tends to retain its value over time. A pair of vintage Chanel earrings can be an actual asset. Should you decide to sell them in the future, you can get cash for them, unlike most non-branded costume jewelry that has no resale value. As time goes by, genuine items continue to grow scarce, and therefore, the value of those currently in existence will continue to rise. You can pass your treasured jewels on to a relative as an heirloom and know that you are giving them something with both sentimental and monetary value.

Versatility

We’re not exaggerating when we say that Chanel brought fashion to our everyday lives. Thanks to Chanel, glamour is no longer restricted to black-tie occasions. Women feel free to wear items like pearls every day for no reason other than to show off their style. Chanel has enabled women to be as elegant as they want, whenever they want. And Chanel earrings are a simple yet effective way to add a touch of refinement to your everyday outfits.

Over the years, Chanel has given us different designs featuring various materials: gold, silver, diamonds, pearls, colored gems – you name it. The interlocking CC earrings are widely considered to be Chanel’s signature, although plain gold or silver studs with black gemstones have also been very popular.

With Chanel, there is truly something for every woman’s taste, adding instant sophistication to any outfit.

Authentic Chanel Earrings in San Diego

Are you shopping for a pair of genuine Chanel earrings? At Leo Hamel Boutique & Consignment Shop, you will find an ever-changing array of vintage Chanel jewelry and handbags in excellent condition. All pieces that we carry are 100% genuine and of the finest quality. Purchase a pair to complement a cocktail dress or a casual outfit. Here you’ll find the perfect Chanel earrings to wear for any occasion!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/top-reasons-to-purchase-chanel-earrings/

Anniversary Jewelry Gift Ideas

An anniversary is a joyous occasion, a time to honor and celebrate the love that you and your spouse share. Whether you’ve been married for years, or are just beginning your journey as newlyweds, there’s no better way to mark your time together than with breathtaking anniversary jewelry. Jewelry is romantic and everlasting, a gift that can be cherished long into the future. Best of all, each anniversary is marked by an alluring colored gemstone or precious metal, so shopping for anniversary jewelry is that much easier! If you’re in need of a little inspiration before you shop, we’ve put together a quick list of anniversary jewelry gift ideas that are certain to make your sweetheart swoon.

1^st Anniversary

The traditional gift for first anniversaries is gold, while the modern alternative is green peridot. Gold is commonly used for jewelry and watchmaking, meaning your options will be plenty if you decide to go the traditional route. A gold bangle bracelet or pair of gold hoop earrings is the perfect gift that she can wear every day. If you’re working with a modest budget, peridot is a bit more reasonably priced. This enchanting green gemstone can be found in all types of anniversary jewelry. Surprise her with an elegant pair of peridot studs for a unique gift that she surely won’t expect.

5^th Anniversary

To mark a 5^th wedding anniversary, you can give the gift of sapphire or pink tourmaline. Both of these richly colored gemstones make a spectacular surprise for the loved one in your life. A pink tourmaline pendant is a vibrant accessory to compliment her favorite outfit. Or perhaps she’d prefer a deep, blue sapphire ring that makes her look and feel like royalty. If blue is not her best color, not to worry! Sapphires come in a spectrum of colors like warm, golden yellow and enchanting, rich purples, so there’s something for every taste!

10^th Anniversary

10^th anniversaries are traditionally celebrated with every woman’s favorite gemstone—diamonds! There are a wealth of options to choose from when it comes to diamond anniversary jewelry. Dazzle her with a delicate diamond pendant that she can wear with anything. Or perhaps a vintage diamond ring to symbolize your continued love and commitment to her. If she’s a bit more reserved, a pair of diamond studs make a sleek and elegant gift that any lady is sure to love!  No matter what you choose, you can never go wrong with sparkling diamond anniversary jewelry.

15^th Anniversary

Romantic red rubies are the traditional gemstone to mark 15^th wedding anniversaries, while alexandrite is the modern alternative. If you’re celebrating 15 years with your sweetheart, these two popular gemstones make a superb gift. She’ll look ravishing in a ruby bracelet, or even a charming ruby brooch. Rubies look great on their own, but are exceptionally beautiful when paired with diamonds. Alexandrite, on the other hand, has unique color changing properties that make it especially attractive in anniversary jewelry. This exotic gemstone is known as the “emerald by day, ruby by night,” appearing to be a greenish-blue color in daylight, and a deep red to purple in darker environments. If she loves pieces that are a bit unusual, she’ll be mesmerized by a piece of alexandrite anniversary jewelry.

20^th Anniversary

20 years of marriage is quite an accomplishment, and a wonderful excuse to spoil your loved one. The traditional gemstone for 20^th anniversaries is emerald, and the contemporary alternative is yellow diamond. These vibrant, cheerful gemstones look beautiful set in jewelry, and will surely brighten her day with each wear. A vintage emerald cocktail ring is an eye-catching statement piece that she’ll love to accessorize with. Or, if yellow is more her color, she’ll glow in a pair of brilliant yellow diamond earrings. What better way to show her just how much you love and cherish her than with splendid emerald and yellow diamond anniversary jewelry?

30^th Anniversary

The 30^th year of marriage is celebrated with pearls, and is known as the pearl jubilee. Pearls are classic and timeless, a fitting representation of your love that has endured for so long. An elegant strand of pearls makes a charming gift, one that she’ll wear for many years to come. If she prefers something with a bit of sparkle, opt for a pair of pearl earrings with delicate diamond accents. Pearls come in a variety of colors besides the traditional white that you’re probably familiar with. Golden pearls, for example, have a warm, champagne colored glow that looks especially glamorous. She’ll be itching to get dressed up and show off her new pearl anniversary jewelry!

50^th Anniversary

Not many couples can boast that they’ve made it 50 years with their better half. Imagine all of the tender moments you’ve undoubtedly shared with someone after that many years as one. 50 years should be celebrated spectacularly, which is why it’s known as the golden jubilee. For your first anniversary, you may not have been able to afford anything extravagant. After all, the first year of marriage is full of ups and downs. Hopefully, after half a century together, you’re better established and able to splurge a bit on something truly special for your darling. A luxurious gold watch always makes a wonderful gift for a polished look. If jewelry is more her style, a gold diamond bracelet is the perfect gift to completely dazzle her.

Find Exceptional Anniversary Jewelry in San Diego

Shopping for an upcoming anniversary with your loved one? We’d love to help you celebrate! Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry & Engagement Rings Store is your go-to San Diego jewelry store for beautiful, one-of-a-kind anniversary jewelry. Our selection of gemstone jewelry is vast, so there’s no shortage of options when trying to choose the perfect gift!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/anniversary-jewelry-gift-ideas/

How to Interpret the New Definition of a Diamond

There’s a lot to keep up with in jewelry news—the launch of new collections, designer collaborations, celebrity jewelry sightings, you name it. It’s no wonder some jewelry news never makes headlines, regardless of how important it may be. One such example is the recent FTC decision to update jewelry industry guidelines, which includes redefining the term “diamond.” Despite a lack of reporting on these changes, they’re actually pretty important to consumers. We’ve decoded these new guidelines for you, so you aren’t left feeling puzzled the next time you visit your local jeweler.

What is a Diamond?

The FTC formerly defined a diamond as “a natural mineral consisting essentially of pure carbon crystallized in the isometric system.” Since the recent revisions, the word “natural” has been removed from this definition, granting equal standing to diamonds that have been created in a lab. In other words, the FTC recognizes both natural and synthetic diamonds as one in the same. But are they?  Though the two have the same chemical composition and very similar optical and physical properties, there are experts who maintain that the difference is still apparent under a microscope.

The industry’s reception to these new rules has been mixed. Though it may be a victory for man-made diamond manufacturers, it’s a bit of a setback for diamond mining companies such as DeBeers. Corporate interests aside, how does this new ruling directly affect you, the consumer?

Dismissing the Word “Synthetic”

One change mandated by the updated jewelry industry guidelines advises marketers to avoid using the term “synthetic” to describe lab-grown diamonds, as it implies that the stone is artificial. Instead, they recommend using qualifiers such as laboratory-grown, laboratory-created, or [manufacturer name]-created. Though sellers still must indicate to the consumer that the diamond was not mined from the earth, the FTC’s new ruling allows for increased ambiguity. Specifically, it authorizes the use of any phrase that “clearly and conspicuously convey[s] that the product is not a mined stone.” This seems like a fairly direct instruction, though it has some in the industry worried. Diamond manufacturers are known for their clever marketing tactics, and this increased flexibility has some wondering if their strategies will only become more deceptive. Many see this as a setback for consumers who are especially susceptible to scams and who aren’t equipped to determine if an item is being misrepresented.

Simulants are Not Synthetic Diamonds

The updated jewelry industry guidelines aim to protect consumers by cracking down on companies that market simulants as synthetic diamonds. Simulants like cubic zirconia and moissanite are often falsely advertised as lab-grown diamonds despite being much less valuable. This is usually at the expense of the consumer, who is likely unaware until they try to sell their stone or have it appraised. This is a welcome change for shoppers who hopefully will have an easier time distinguishing what’s real and what’s not.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Gemstones

Prior to the FTC’s recent ruling, man-made diamond producers were not permitted to use any of the following terms to market their products: gem, gemstone, stone, real, genuine, or birthstone. Now that they’ve recognized lab-grown diamonds as the real deal, it’s only fair that they allow manufacturers to use this language.

Using the Word “Cultured”

Probably the greatest victory for the man-made diamond industry is the FTC’s decision to allow the word “cultured” to describe their lab-grown products. Their decision stems from the argument that consumers understand the word cultured to mean something that must be grown. Therefore, the FTC feels the term is sufficient enough to indicate that the diamond was not harvested from the earth, but rather was grown in a lab under controlled circumstances.

What Does It All Mean?

It’s easy to see why the mined-diamond industry was unsettled by these new rulings. For starters, there are plenty who argue that lab-grown diamonds are in fact quite different from real diamonds. What makes diamonds so valuable and precious is the fact that they’re rare, and no two are exactly the same. Not to mention, in order for a diamond to make it from mine to market, it must go through a series of steps that include cutting and polishing. Diamonds that are grown in a lab can be produced in just a few weeks, at very little cost to the manufacturer. Yet, despite the fact that producing lab-grown diamonds is much easier and cheaper, manufacturers still hike up their prices to match those of natural mined diamonds. Now that lab-grown diamonds have been granted the same status as natural diamonds, this begs the question—will the value of precious, natural diamonds take a hit? Only time will tell how these changes impact the jewelry industry, but in the meantime it’s left up to the consumer to decide.

Shop Splendid Natural Diamonds in San Diego

If you’re still skeptical about the idea of a lab-grown diamond, that’s quite alright. There are still plenty of beautiful, natural diamonds to cherish and enjoy, and you can find them right here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. We offer a tremendous selection of dazzling diamond jewelry for every taste and budget. Whether you’re preparing to pop the question, or simply want to spoil yourself, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for at Leo Hamel’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/how-to-interpret-the-new-definition-of-a-diamond/

Trend Alert: Mixed Metal Engagement Rings

Despite what your mother or grandmother may have told you, it’s perfectly tasteful to rock mixed metal jewelry. This can mean wearing a few different pieces that are each of a different metal, or wearing a single piece that beautifully blends various metals together as one. No matter how you choose to mingle your metals, you can be confident that your look will be right on trend. With jewelers dreaming and creating new mixed metal designs every day, we anticipate you’ll be seeing a lot more of this style as we approach Spring, especially when it comes to engagement rings. If a two-tone engagement ring piques your interest, then you’ll definitely want to check out these tips for incorporating different metals into your dream ring design.

What is a Mixed Metal Engagement Ring?

Mixed metal engagement rings have certain elements made from one type of metal, and others that are created from another type of metal. This generally consists of joining a bright, white metal like white gold, palladium, or platinum with a warmer metal like yellow gold or rose gold. Some mixed metal designs even feature an unusual, rare green gold. Although you’ll sometimes hear mixed metal rings referred to as two-tone rings, there’s no limit to the types of metal you use. Pair two of your favorites, or even three for a unique look that’s entirely your own.

How to Mix Your Metals

For decades, it was deemed unacceptable for women to mix and match their jewelry metals. If you were seen wearing a platinum pair of earrings, it was only proper that your other accessories were platinum as well. But not anymore! Nowadays, brides-to-be seem to appreciate when things are a tad mismatched. It’s even become ordinary practice to see brides allowing their bridesmaids to choose their own dresses. It’s no wonder mixed metal engagement rings are having a moment in the spotlight. There are plenty of beautiful mixed metal pairings, but a few stand out as particularly stunning. The following are just a few of our favorites:

Twisted Bands

Looking for an engagement ring that gorgeously highlights the contrast between two different precious metals? No design does this better than two intertwining metal strands that are combined to create a ring’s band. Rose and white gold, for example, complement each other beautifully when weaved together in this delicate formation. If you like the idea of a mixed metal band, but aren’t too fond of the twisted look, try incorporating a thin strip of richly colored gold into a white metal band. This works great if your ring band is wide, as this ensures that the narrow ribbon of yellow or rose gold doesn’t look out of place compared to the rest of your ring.

Halos

Halos are an engagement ring’s secret weapon for enhancing a center diamond and making it really stand out. They can even help make a modest diamond look larger than it actually is. Another popular mixed metal design features a halo of diamonds set in one type of metal, fixed to a band of a different metal. This elevates your diamond to center stage for everyone to admire, while also creating the illusion that the diamond is delicately floating above the band.

Mixed Metal Wedding Bands

Like the look of a mixed metal ring, but aren’t quite sure if you want to make it your focal point? Opting for a mixed metal wedding band is one way of pulling off this style with a bit more subtlety. Choosing a mixed metal wedding band ensures that you can enjoy this trend, but also have the option to wear your engagement ring solo when you’re feeling more traditional. A wedding band is understated enough to make a statement without taking away from your main focal point. Plus, there are plenty of options to choose from whether you prefer a simple design or something more intricate and detailed.

Discover Magnificent Mixed Metal Engagement Rings at Leo’s

Wondering where you can find beautiful mixed metal engagement rings for any budget? Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry & Engagement Rings Store in San Diego is your one stop shop for all of your jewelry needs. Our spacious showroom offers no shortage of incredible engagement rings to choose from, including one-of-a-kind antique and vintage styles that you simply won’t find anywhere else. Explore our selection of mixed metal designs, or opt for something classic and timeless. No matter your personal style, you’re sure to find something you love here at Leo’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/mixed-metal-engagement-rings/

Common Mistakes Men Make When Buying an Engagement Ring

A marriage proposal is one of the most joyful moments a couple shares together. Though you’re sure to be nervous, nothing is more rewarding than seeing the smile on her face as you get down on one knee. But after the butterflies have subsided and her excitement has calmed, what about the ring? Does she love her engagement ring? Is it the right fit? Do you have the option to return or exchange, if necessary? There are a few things to keep in mind when buying an engagement ring for your loved one and there are some common mistakes we’d like to help you avoid.

Do some investigating

If you plan on surprising your sweetheart with a ring, you’ll want to make sure to do some undercover work first to determine her taste. It’s not too difficult to figure out what your lady likes, as she will typically make it known in some way or another. Start with her friends and family, chances are she has shared with a sibling or best friend what her dream engagement ring looks like. If she wears jewelry often, take note of what she likes such as a certain type of metal or particular setting. For additional intel, visit her social media pages like Pinterest or Instagram. Does she pin a certain style of ring to her Pinterest board, or does she follow any jewelry pages on Instagram? This can give you a lot of insight into her preferences.

Guessing her ring size

Though rings can be resized, it is best to get as close to the actual size as possible from the start. There are a few ways to determine this information. You could ask someone close to her, like a friend. Or you could try to compare a ring that she currently wears to those at the jewelry store. The average ring finger size is 6-6.5 so in the event that you can’t figure out her size, you could always select something standard and have it resized up or down accordingly.

Work undercover

Be weary of online advertising. Frequent searches for engagement rings or related topics will result in targeted ads on your social media accounts and search engines. If you’re using a computer or device that you share with your significant other, be sure to block cookies to prevent these ads from popping up and blowing your cover. Or just keep your shopping limited to your smart phone or other personal device.

Don’t overspend

No matter what you might’ve heard, there is no set amount that one should spend on an engagement ring. Don’t let the opinions of others make you feel pressured to spend more than what you can afford. After all, a proposal is a commitment to marriage and weddings cost a pretty penny. You don’t want to blow your life savings on a ring and be left with nothing to spare for a ceremony.

Extra assurances

Jewelry stores that offer free returns or exchanges for at least the first 30 days are ideal if you intend on a surprise proposal. This will give you peace of mind in the event that there is something she’d like to change. Most jewelers offer free resizing as well, sometimes even if the ring was purchased elsewhere. Be sure to ask questions to find out what kind of perks your jewelry store provides.

Shop Exceptional Engagement Rings in San Diego

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry & Engagement Rings Store, we know that engagement ring shopping can be an overwhelming experience, but we go the extra mile to help you pull off the proposal of her dreams with the ring she’s always imagined herself wearing. Our San Diego jewelry store has an amazing selection of engagement rings from brands like Hearts On Fire®, Venetti, and more that are sure to dazzle your bride-to-be.

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/mistakes-buying-engagement-ring/

How to Spot a Fake Rolex

Rolex is believed by many to be the most esteemed Swiss watchmaker in the world. For more than 100 years, Rolex has set the standard for watchmaking, creating luxury timepieces known for their precision, accuracy, and unmatched quality. Worn by world leaders, athletes, and entertainers alike, Rolex watches have become a symbol of wealth, prestige, and of course, impeccable style. With such star-studded appeal, it’s no wonder Rolex replicas are in high demand. This has created a market for knock-offs, most of which are produced overseas in China and nearby countries. Spotting a fake Rolex was once fairly easy, but as manufacturing techniques have become more sophisticated, it has become increasingly difficult to tell a counterfeit from the real thing. Try as they might, the quality and accuracy of an authentic Rolex simply cannot be reproduced, and although it may be a bit more challenging, there are tricks to distinguishing a real Rolex from a fake. In this article, we’ll determine how to spot a fake Rolex by examining some of the watch brand’s most defining characteristics.

How to Tell if a Rolex is Real

Serial & Model Numbers

Image source

One of the simplest methods for verifying the authenticity of a Rolex watch is to examine its serial number and model number. These numbers can be used to determine when the watch was manufactured. Where is the serial number on a Rolex, you may ask? Older Rolex models have a serial number located between the 6:00 lugs, and a model number between the 12:00 lugs. Newer models, on the other hand, have a serial number beneath the watch’s crystal, along the inner bezel at the 6:00 position. When closely inspected, these numbers should feature clean, fine lines that are flawlessly etched into the metal. Engravings with a rough or sandy appearance are clear indicators of a phony Rolex. Additionally, a fake Rolex will have numbers that are cramped together, whereas real Rolex markings and engravings will be adequately spaced.

Date Window

Image source

The date window on Rolex watches is aptly named “the Cyclops.” This handy lens helps to magnify the date for easier reading. The Cyclops on an authentic Rolex will magnify the date to 2.5 times its original size, whereas a knockoff may display minimal to no magnification. Turn the watch on its side and try to view the date from a different angle. If it appears to be the same size as when looking at the watch head on, it’s likely a fake. This date window should also be perfectly centered over the date, and should feel like a small bump. These small details are usually giveaways for counterfeit designs.

 

Movement

Image source

Rolex watches are designed with complex, mechanical movements that self-wind with every day wear. Counterfeit Rolexes are generally made with less expensive quartz or battery powered movements. To tell the difference between the two, simply watch the second hand. If it appears to make a “ticking” motion, the watch likely contains a quartz movement. If it propels smoothly and fluidly, it is a mechanical movement. The exception to this rule would be Rolex’s OysterQuartz and QuartzDate models, which were designed with quartz movements. Luckily, these models are exceptionally rare, with less than 20,000 originally produced.

Caseback

Image source

The underside of a watch is known as the caseback. Legitimate Rolexes have casebacks that are free of any markings. If your caseback has any stamping, etching, or engraving—it’s not a genuine Rolex. In fact, many fakes will actually include extra detail on the caseback in an attempt to dupe buyers into thinking they’re getting the real deal. Don’t be deceived by these tricks, a clear caseback is a foolproof measure of authenticity.

Winding Crown

Rolex spares no detail when designing their luxury watches, and the winding crown is no exception. The brand’s signature crown logo is on every Rolex winding crown, no matter the model. There should be grooves that you can see and feel, and the mechanism should be all one piece. If these details are absent, and the winding crown is plain, you’ve got an imitation on your hands.

Crown Etching

Around 2002, Rolex began adding another small detail to their watches that has been difficult for counterfeiters to duplicate. If you look closely with a magnifying glass or jewelry loupe, you’ll see Rolex’s tiny trademark crown etched into the watch’s crystal right at the 6 o’clock position. Most counterfeiters don’t attempt to copy this detail, and if they do, it’s often done sloppily. If the etching is large and easily seen by the untrained eye, you’ve got a fake.

Weight

Image source

Rolex is known for designing their watches using only the highest quality precious metal and crystal.  These materials are strong and durable, and also much heavier than cheap alternatives. A quick internet search can give you an idea what your watch should weigh. A genuine Rolex will feel solid in the palm of your hand. If your watch feels uncharacteristically lightweight, there’s a good chance it’s an impostor.

Water-tightness

Rolex designs all of its watches to be essentially waterproof. If you doubt the authenticity of your Rolex watch, you can perform a simple water-tightness test at home. First, be sure that the crown is tightly screwed down, then submerge the watch in a cup of water for several seconds. When the watch is removed, it should work without any issues and there should be no moisture inside the dial. Bear in mind that if your watch is in fact fake, an at home test such as this one could potentially damage the timepiece. While the Submariner is the only Rolex model designed for use in deep water, every Rolex watch can withstand everyday activities like a shower or dip in the pool.

Price

The best way to know you’re buying a genuine Rolex is simple—the price tag. If you’re in the market for a Rolex watch, chances are you’ve done a good deal of research and are prepared to pay top dollar. Even the cheapest Rolex model retails for thousands of dollars, so there’s absolutely no reason that any reputable jeweler or watchmaker would sell a real Rolex for less than its worth. Be wary of prices that are too good to be true, or of dealers who seem too eager to sell.

Know Your Seller

When shopping around for Rolex watches, we suggest choosing a seller you trust. To be safe, it’s best to avoid online transactions, especially on sites like Craigslist or eBay. Not only is the seller unknown, but the photos and description they give could be completely different than the actual product. Most of the methods we’ve mentioned for spotting a fake Rolex require that you examine the item in person. Similarly, buying from a pawn shop can be risky. Though they occasionally receive real Rolex models, some stores do nothing to confirm a watch’s authenticity, so it’s left up to you to determine. The best way to be confident in your Rolex purchase is to shop with a trusted seller, like Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers.

Shop Genuine Pre-Owned Rolex Watches in San Diego

If you’re searching for the best place to find one-of-a-kind Rolex watches, you must visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego. We carry one of the largest selections of pre-owned Rolex watches, all restored to like-new condition and ready to wear! Our watches are 100% authentic, and are meticulously inspected by our expert watchmakers before they’re put in our showroom for sale. We’ve been a trusted San Diego establishment for nearly 40 years, offering our customers unbeatable prices on luxurious Swiss-made watches. Visit our San Diego jewelry store today and explore our wonderful selection for yourself!

*All images courtesy of Bob’s Watches

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/02/how-to-spot-a-fake-rolex/