Tips & Tricks for Proper Engagement Ring Care

The man of your dreams finally popped the question, and now you’re rocking the most magnificent ring on your left hand. But, if you’re like most women, wearing pricey diamond jewelry isn’t exactly your regular routine. You likely have a few questions about how to properly care for your new treasure: Should you take it off when you shower? What about when you sleep? How do you keep it clean? These are all great questions that nearly every bride-to-be has. After all, an engagement ring is often the most expensive piece of jewelry a woman will ever wear, and you want it to last a lifetime. If you’re wondering how to best care for your new prized possession, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered a list of the best tips and tricks for proper engagement ring care to keep your ring dazzling like new.

Keep your ring clean

The golden rule of engagement ring care is to always keep your ring clean. Over time, dirt, oil, and other residue will build up and make your ring look dull and dingy. If you notice your ring is lacking its usual sparkle, that’s generally a sign it could use a good cleaning. Not sure how to clean an engagement ring? You can choose to take it to a jewelry store for a professional steam clean, or you can follow a few simple steps at home. All you need is a small dish, filled with some warm water and mild dish detergent. Allow your ring to soak in the water for several minutes, then remove it and gently scrub it with a soft bristle toothbrush. Return the ring to the water to loosen up any leftover dirt or grime. Finally, rinse your ring under clean, warm water and pat dry with a non-abrasive cloth. Avoid the misfortune of losing your ring down the drain by always plugging the sink before rinsing.

Schedule regular visits to a jeweler

Ring cleanings are important, but so is regular ring maintenance. Most jewelers recommend customers come in at least once a year to have their ring examined to ensure the prongs are secure and that no stones are loose or damaged. Ignoring even the tiniest imperfection will only lead to further, costlier damage to your ring, so this is an errand you don’t want to put off. A visit to the jeweler is also an opportunity to give your ring’s metal a little refresher. White gold rings need to be re-plated with rhodium every few years to maintain their brilliance and shine, while platinum rings require regular polishing to keep them looking lustrous. If you purchased your ring with a warranty, many of these services will be free of charge.

Only resize your ring once

An engagement ring is something you expect to wear for a lifetime, but there may be times when your ring doesn’t fit just the way you want it to. For example, pregnancy, seasonal temperature changes, travelling, and weight fluctuations can all effect the way your ring fits. Instead of running out to get your ring resized right away, give it some time to see if your body returns to normal. Although ring resizing is generally an easy process, overdoing it can make your metal fragile and susceptible to damage down the road.

Be cautious of the diamond  

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on earth, but that doesn’t make them indestructible. They can still chip and fracture just like any precious gem. Avoid knocking your diamond against hard surfaces, especially if you have a diamond shape that’s prone to chipping. Princess and marquise cut diamonds have sharp corners that make them more vulnerable to damage, while round brilliant cut diamonds tend to be less frail. If you’re concerned about the integrity of your diamond, opt for a secure setting, such as v-shaped prongs or a bezel.

Know when you should take your ring off

Once you have the ring you’ve always dreamed of, you’ll probably never want to take it off. But, there are certain occasions when it’s necessary to tuck it away in your jewelry box. Most experts agree that you should remove your ring before cleaning with harsh chemicals, washing dishes, working out, swimming, and playing sports. These types of hands-on activities expose your ring to unnecessary wear and tear and increase your chances of losing it altogether. Jewelers also recommend removing your ring before bed, since it can easily catch on something while you’re sleeping. While it’s sometimes necessary to forgo your ring, there are times when you should keep it planted on your finger. Avoid taking your ring off in public, like when washing your hands in a public restroom. You’d hate to lose your ring down a drain or accidentally leave it behind.

Invest in engagement ring insurance

Like any large purchase, you have the option to insure your engagement ring. This can either be purchased through your existing policies, such as homeowners or renter’s insurance, or through a dedicated jewelry insurer. An insurance policy will protect your treasure against theft, loss, and unexpected damage, and is relatively inexpensive if you consider the tremendous value of your engagement ring. The first step is to have your ring professionally appraised, so you know how much to insure it for. We recommend repeating this step every 5 years or so, as diamonds and precious metals may increase over time. You want to make sure your ring is insured for its current worth, so you don’t end up paying extra.

Safely store your ring

Find a safe place to store your ring when you’re not wearing it. It’s worth investing in a quality jewelry box with individual compartments lined with soft fabric. Store your ring solo to avoid unnecessary scratching. If security is a big concern, you may even consider stashing your ring in a locked safe. Securing your jewelry in this manner can actually help lower the cost of engagement ring insurance, as insurers often advertise additional discounts for safekeeping.

Place ring dishes around the house

If you need to slip your ring off for just a few moments, it’s handy to have ring dishes around where it can briefly rest. Place ring dishes in the rooms where you remove your ring most often, such as in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. That way, right before you do dishes or wash your face for bed, you can quickly remove your ring without having to pull out your entire jewelry box.

Care for your engagement ring with the help of Leo Hamel’s!

If your ring is in need of a little TLC, there’s only one place to go, and that’s Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego! Our full-service store is your one-stop-shop for all of your jewelry and watch needs. Shop an extensive collection of fine jewelry, including unique vintage and antique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. Have your favorite jewelry pieces repaired and restored to their original splendor so you can continue enjoying them. We even offer jewelry buying services for those looking to trade in their unwanted valuables for some extra cash. No matter the service you’re seeking, you’ll find it here at Leo Hamel’s! What’re you waiting for? Visit us today!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/tips-tricks-for-proper-engagement-ring-care/

Jay-Z’s Custom Richard Mille Watch

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Jewelry

Planning a wedding is no easy task. There are hundreds of details to consider such as the choice of food, the music, the guest list, the venue—the list goes on and on. With so many decisions to be made, it’s no wonder brides tend to put off picking wedding jewelry until the very last minute. If you’re stuck scrambling to find the best bridal jewelry to suit your style, there’s no need to panic. These useful pointers will help you discover the perfect wedding jewelry to guarantee you dazzle on your big day!

Don’t Over-Accessorize

When it comes to accessorizing for your wedding, less is always more. Most brides want to feel as pretty as a princess on their wedding day, but don’t want to risk looking too costumey. After all, you’d hate for anything to take attention away from your elegant (and most likely, expensive) wedding gown. Avoid going overboard with accessories by choosing just a few key pieces to match your unique style and the design of your dress.

Choose Metals to Match Your Dress

Do you have plenty of wedding jewelry ideas, but need help narrowing your options? Many brides have difficulty deciding which precious metal to pair with their gorgeous gown. As a general rule of thumb, you should choose a style of jewelry based on the shade of your wedding dress. By following these guidelines, you can be confident that your dress and jewelry pair flawlessly with one another:

White Wedding Gowns

Bright white gowns are beautifully offset by platinum, white gold, or silver bridal jewelry.

Ivory/Champagne Wedding Gowns

Classic yellow gold jewelry pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy color of ivory wedding gowns.

Blush Wedding Gowns

Compliment a blush colored gown with warm, radiant rose gold bridal jewelry.

Consider Your Dress Style

As with any outfit, be sure to choose jewelry that matches your specific style of dress. For example, if your wedding dress is heavily detailed and intricate, you might opt for jewelry that’s modest and subdued. You also want to be certain that your bridal jewelry doesn’t clash with your gown’s neckline. If you have doubts about what style of jewelry will look best, the following are a few simple suggestions:

Sweetheart/Strapless Gowns

If you’ve chosen a strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline, you’ll want to wear jewelry that directs the eye upward to your glowing smile. A diamond choker necklace is the epitome of elegance, and the perfect proportion to offset a strapless wedding dress. Consider pairing this with a matching diamond bracelet to balance out the look. If necklaces aren’t your style, try wearing a pair of ornate chandelier earrings instead. Again, this will ensure the eye is focused on your face.

V-neck Gowns

A v-neck wedding gown looks exquisite when complimented by a delicate pendant necklace, or sophisticated pair of diamond studs. If your taste is more traditional, consider wearing pearl wedding jewelry instead. Pearls are a timeless classic, and when paired with diamonds, they look even more glitzy and glamorous.

Halter Neck Gowns

Halter necklines are a bit trickier to accessorize. Choosing a necklace or elaborate earrings can be challenging, as you want to make sure your jewelry and dress look harmonious together. For example, a necklace that’s too long might fall in an awkward place and look mismatched. To avoid clashing, try opting for hair accessories instead like a bejeweled clip or comb. Or, you can rock a vintage embellished veil.

Don’t Forget Comfort!

Before making any final decisions about bridal jewelry, be sure to try items on for comfort. Don’t forget that you’ll be wearing this jewelry for several hours. So, if your earrings are too heavy, or your bracelet is too tight, you’ll definitely notice your discomfort. Choose jewelry that is lightweight and easy to wear, so you can mingle and dance the night away without having to constantly fuss.

Flaunt Your Personal Style

The number one rule of choosing the perfect wedding jewelry is to be sure it embodies your individual style. Getting all dolled up for your wedding day is thrilling, no doubt, but you still want to look and feel like yourself. If you’re wearing accessories that are obviously not your taste, it’ll show—both in person and in pictures.

Shop the Best Bridal Jewelry at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, you’ll find breathtaking bridal fashion jewelry for every taste and budget. Shop a selection of diamonds, pearls, and everything else in between. Explore vintage bridal jewelry collections from beloved brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and many more. And, at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we offer a full range of services including jewelry repair to ensure your wedding jewelry fits perfectly for your big day. Don’t waste another minute—visit us today and discover the difference of shopping at Leo Hamel’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/how-to-choose-the-perfect-wedding-jewelry/

How to Pick the Ideal Engagement Ring Style

Proposing to the woman of your dreams is a joyful, but stressful event in any man’s life. Deciding on the perfect time and place to get down on one knee and finding the engagement ring your girl has always dreamed of often make this special occasion feel overwhelming.

If you are looking for stylish engagement rings in San Diego, the helpful team at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers is happy to assist you in your search for the perfect ring style to make your significant other feel incredibly special.

What are engagement ring styles?

If buying an engagement ring is your first experience at a jewelry store, the number of factors you need to consider to pick out a suitable ring is likely to cause panic. Luckily, if you get familiar with the available options and styles, searching for the ideal ring for your special someone can be a fun experience.

There are several ring design elements that you can mix and match to find the style best suited to your loved one’s taste.  

• Setting: how your ring’s main stone is placed plays a crucial role in the overall look of the ring. Browse some popular settings and pick the one that emphasizes the size and beauty of your gem.  
• Cut: the way your diamond is cut is possibly the aspect that affects the appearance of the ring the most. If you want a diamond cut that provides optimal sparkle, opt for a round brilliant or princess cut stone.     
• Stone color: while most people choose the classic diamond ring, your bride-to-be might prefer a colorful gemstone. Some great alternatives to diamonds are sapphires, rubies, and amethysts.  
• Ring band: the style of the band you pick can make your stone truly stand out. Decide on the metal, color, and thickness, depending on the size of the gem. Common metal options include silver, platinum, yellow, rose and white gold.

What’s the most popular engagement ring style?

Choosing the style of your engagement ring will greatly depend on your partner’s individual taste. Before you start shopping, take the time to inspect your girlfriend’s wardrobe and take note of the kind of jewelry she usually likes to wear. Once you have the necessary information, take your pick of the hottest engagement ring styles.  

Solitaire engagement ring

The solitaire is the classic setting suited for a chic and refined woman with a taste for elegance. This extremely popular style consists of a single stone set with 3, 4 or 6 prongs to make it the absolute center of attention. Solitaire rings require a quality diamond or gemstone in order to be truly effective, so make sure to pick the stone wisely.   

Halo engagement ring

The halo ring setting is a great way to emphasize a smaller or colored gemstone. The diamonds or gemstones set around the center stone give the illusion of greater brilliance and size, making any gem seem a little more refined and impactful. You can make your ring stand out even more by getting a double halo ring for that extra oomph.   

Channel engagement ring

This ring setting features a band with a number of side diamonds set between two bars of metal. Channel style is great for any girl who loves to bring out both her girly and sporty side since it’s a great mix between classic elegance and sturdiness. The stone is well protected between the two metal strips, eliminating the risk of it falling out.      

Three stone engagement ring

If you think your girl would love a stylish ring with maximum sparkle, getting a three-stone setting might be just what you need. The central stone is flanked by two smaller stones, often thought to symbolize the past, present and future of the couple. This romantic style is also great if you have trouble deciding on just one gem: surround a diamond with emeralds or sapphires for a special effect.        

Shop unique engagement ring styles in San Diego

Your engagement ring should be the embodiment of your eternal love for your significant other. If you live in San Diego County and want to find an ideal ring, visit our luxurious showroom where you can browse the finest collection of engagement rings in San Diego.

Our expert staff will help you find the perfect ring setting and style for your bride-to-be and walk you through our extensive selection of high-end jewelry, vintage pieces and diamonds of all shapes and sizes. Come by our store today and find the ring of her dreams!  

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/engagement-ring-popular-styes/

The Ultimate Engagement Ring Buying Guide

Buying an engagement ring your girl will love can be a daunting task. With so many decisions to make, choosing the ring style she’ll cherish for a lifetime can be as stressful as the proposal itself.

Luckily, one of the leading engagement ring stores in San Diego knows just how to help you pick the ideal ring for your sweetheart. If you follow our expert tips, your search for the ring of her dreams won’t be nearly as difficult as you expect it to be. Read on.

How do I choose an engagement ring for my girlfriend?

Unless you’re designing the ring together, figuring out the ring your lady would love the most requires a lot of effort. If you want to make your girl sublimely happy with a ring she’ll wear for life, here are some steps you should consider to make the process go smoothly.

Determine your budget

Deciding on the budget early can speed up the process immensely. This way, you will limit your options to the rings which are in your price range and explore the available styles and designs without getting overwhelmed.

So, how much should you spend? Regardless of what you might have heard, the ring doesn’t have to cost you a two months salary. Instead of going into debt, buy the finest ring you can afford that’s in line with your girl’s personal style.

Pay attention to her style

Keep a close eye on your girlfriend’s wardrobe. Is her personal style simple and clean? Choose a minimal, understated piece to match it. Or is she someone who doesn’t mind being the center of attention? Get her a big, sparkly ring she’ll gladly show off to her friends. In case you’re not sure, ask her family or girlfriends to give you some insider tips.

Figure out her ring size

Choosing the right size ring for your sweetheart’s finger can make or break your proposal. Well, not really, since you can have the ring properly fitted afterward. Still, unless you want your special moment to be awkward when the ring doesn’t fit, make sure to sneak out a ring she isn’t wearing at the moment and have it measured by the jeweler.

How many carats should an engagement ring be?

An engagement ring is a symbol of your never ending love for your sweetheart. To emphasize this, decide on the carat weight of your diamond or gem based on her personal preferences as well as the following factors:  

• Carat weight & cut: diamond carat is a measurement of weight, not size. A nicely cut, three-quarter carat diamond can look larger and more brilliant than a full carat stone with a poor cut.   
• Choose the proper setting: ring design can work wonders in making the gem appear larger. Choose the setting that best emphasizes the brilliance and size of your diamond, such as bezel settings and thinner ring bands.  
• Think about finger size: if your bride-to-be has delicate hands, a smaller diamond would probably fit her much better than a large two-carat stone which might look glorious on wider fingers.    

What engagement rings sparkle the most?

While carat weight and size of the diamond are definitely significant, it is its brilliance that makes a stone stand out the most. Choose a diamond cut that best catches the light and optimizes the diamond’s natural sparkle. Here are some brilliant diamond cuts:

• Round brilliant cut: a stone with a round cut can have as many as 58 facets. This gives it a significantly higher brilliance than that of a single-cut diamond with just 17 facets.
• Marquise cut: as brilliant as the round variant, marquise cut diamonds can appear quite large because of their elongated shape, especially on short fingers.  
• Oval cut: similar to marquise diamonds, oval cut stones are high in brilliance and make the fingers seem slender and delicate.   
• Heart cut: this popular engagement ring cut requires a simple setting and larger carat weight to emphasize its unique shape and sparkle.
• Princess cut: a diamond with a square princess cut has a truly unique look and gives the stone a great deal of sparkle.

Enchant your sweetheart with splendid engagement rings

If you are a gentleman looking for the finest engagement ring stores in San Diego to make the woman of your life jump for joy, you must visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Located near Downtown San Diego, our unique jewelry store boasts a stunning collection of engagement rings sure to make any woman happy.

Whether you want to take your pick of the most popular engagement ring styles or you’re looking for a one of a kind statement piece, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers has exactly what you need. Visit us today and find the ideal ring style for your future fiancé.  

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/engagement-ring-carats-sparkle/

Rihanna Fenty: A Historic Fashion Collaboration

Pop superstar Rihanna is once again creating waves in the world of fashion and beauty. On May 10^th, the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate, Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton announced their partnership with the mogul, who will debut her very own fashion line later this month. If you’re not familiar, Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) is the powerhouse behind beloved brands like Dior, Givenchy, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, and a slew of other well-known names. Their multinational company encompasses a range of industries, from cosmetics, to fashion, and even wines and spirits.

Rihanna’s relationship with LVMH began with her Fenty Beauty line, which was released in 2017 to rave reviews. And in 2018, she revealed a brand-new line of lingerie, Savage X Fenty. There’s since been speculation that the pop star would be embarking on yet another venture, but few expected an announcement quite like this. Not only is Rihanna the first woman to create her own original brand at LVMH, she’ll also be the first woman of color to lead an LVMH maison. This is also a bold move on behalf of the LVMH brand, as this will be their first new fashion house to be unveiled since Christian Lacroix in 1987, which proved to be a bust. Rihanna will join the ranks of renowned designers like Nicolas Ghesquière, Marc Jacobs, Hedi Slimane, and other icons of the fashion world. Fenty will be a Paris based brand that offers a luxury line of ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories.

LVMH has been making significant strides when it comes to inclusivity, and this is yet another step towards a more diverse and multicultural organization. Givenchy and Dior are both led by female designers, while Virgil Abloh recently became the first African-American to head Louis Vuitton men’s wear. These changes are significant, as they come on the heels of other luxury brands being denounced for discriminatory practices. LVMH is leading the way and setting the example for similar designer fashion houses to follow.

Rihanna’s entire Fenty brand, on the other hand, has always embraced inclusivity as part of its overarching mission. Her Fenty Beauty line has received international acclaim for offering 50 different shades of foundation for all ranges of skin tones, something that similar celebrity beauty brands have failed to achieve. Additionally, her Savage X Fenty lingerie collection includes a variety of plus size options, which set it apart from retailers like Victoria Secret who’ve repeatedly been criticized for failing to offer such sizes. Rihanna’s latest endeavor will undoubtedly embody these same ideals, and will surely capture the iconic and edgy fashion she has come to be known for. Stay tuned for more details on this groundbreaking collaboration as they continue to be revealed! In the meantime, shop exclusive designer fashions from legendary LVMH brands and more at Leo Hamel Boutique & Consignment Shop!

*Image courtesy of The GlowUp

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/rihanna-fenty-a-historic-fashion-collaboration/

2019 Graduation Gift Ideas

Hats off to the graduating class of 2019! 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 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!

Vintage Louis Vuitton International Vernis Wallet 

Want to surprise your youngster with a designer gift she’s sure to love? This vintage Louis Vuitton wallet is perfectly practical, equipped with a convenient snap button to ensure her valuables are stored safely and securely. The glossy, vernis leather gives this wallet a unique, edgy look she’s sure to love. Plus, this adorable accessory features Louis Vuitton’s signature monogram, an iconic design that any young lady would be proud to wear!

Men’s Tissot Everytime Watch

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 things for sure, with a quality timepiece from Tissot, your grad won’t miss a beat, or his first college class!

Hearts On Fire® Diamond Studs 

What better way to show your grad just how proud you are than with a dazzling pair of diamond studs from Hearts On Fire®? Diamond studs are a timeless staple that every young lady should have in her 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 diamond studs is a gift that will last a lifetime, and a treasure she can share with her own children.

Victorinox Swiss Army Twelve Function Pocket Knife

Make sure your grad is prepared for anything with a Victorinox Swiss Army Twelve Function Pocket Knife. This trusty device is so much more than just a knife, it’s a convenient multi-tool that can assist in a variety of situations. Just a few of its functions include a can opener, screwdriver, and wire stripper. These various tools will come in handy in a dorm room or vehicle, so you can rest easy knowing they’re equipped for practically any scenario.

Wolf Designs Stackable Jewelry Box 

Help your recent graduate stay organized with a stackable jewelry box from Wolf Designs. These bright, bold boxes are great for keeping all of her favorite jewels safe and secure. The soft cloth lining will ensure her treasures sparkle and shine like new. Choose a cheerful color like coral or yellow to help liven up her living space. She’s sure to appreciate the extra storage space, especially if living in cramped quarters like a dorm or studio.

Montblanc Starwalker Pen 

Every new grad needs a reliable, high-quality pen, and none quite compare to the Montblanc StarWalker fountain pen. If your aspiring young professional plans to take on college or the corporate world, a Montblanc pen is the gold standard of writing instruments. Each pen is handcrafted using premium materials and quality ink that provides a flawless inscription with every stroke. And unlike your standard BIC ballpoint, the ink in a Montblanc pen can continuously be replaced, so you can be sure this gift gets years of use.

Madison L. Diamond Clover Ring

Give your grad the gift of good luck with this charming Madison L. diamond clover ring. The four-leafed clover has long been a symbol of good luck and fortune, dating back to ancient European folklore. This dainty ring has several sweet details, like a braided band and delicate gold beading. The brilliant sparkle of the diamonds is sure to make her light up. She’ll be eager to wear this good luck charm everywhere she goes!

Celebrate Your Graduate 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 and Leo Hamel Boutique! Our sister stores are conveniently located right next to one another, so you can get all of your shopping done in one easy trip. Shop an extraordinary selection of fine jewelry, watches, and luxurious designer gifts, all at a price you’ll love. Your grad deserves the very best on their special day, and you’ll find it here at Leo’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/2019-graduation-gift-ideas/

10 of History’s Most Famous Engagement Rings

Some of the biggest and brightest engagement rings in history have been worn on the hands of iconic women. These women served as models of class and elegance in their day, and their taste in jewelry is no exception. Here, we’ll detail ten of the most famous engagement rings in history.

1. Princess Diana/Kate Middleton

This 12-carat blue Ceylon sapphire engagement ring was first gifted to Princess Diana in 1981. At the time, Diana’s choice of engagement ring was a topic of debate. She was criticized by some for choosing a ring that was available for general purchase by the public. They felt that someone of her prominence should have chosen a custom design. On the other hand, she was praised for her humbleness. The ring set off such a frenzy, that jewelers everywhere rushed to design their own variations for sale.

In 2010, Diana’s son Prince William proposed to his future bride, Kate Middleton, with his mother’s sapphire ring. This was William’s way of keeping his mother’s memory alive and including her in his special moment despite her physical absence. Needless to say, the public was captivated by their engagement and marriage—their wedding was broadcast in over 180 countries.

2. Meghan Markle

Prince Harry and actress Meghan Markle recently wed in one of the most talked about events of the decade. But prior to the televised ceremony, Harry proposed to Markle with a ring that is equally sentimental as it is stunning. The ring boasts a 3-carat cushion cut diamond that was ethically sourced from Botswana, where the couple shared time together. In addition, the center diamond is bordered by two smaller stones that belonged to Lady Diana’s private collection.

3. Elizabeth Taylor

Often referred to as the Krupp diamond or the Elizabeth Taylor diamond, this shocking 33.19 carat Asscher-cut stone was given to Taylor by actor Richard Burton. There is some question as to its present value, though it is estimated to be about $9,250,000! Taylor developed a close attachment to the diamond and was often pictured wearing it in public and in her films. It was even featured in an episode of the Simpson’s when Taylor was brought to life in animation.

4. Jacqueline Kennedy

Jacqueline Kennedy is one of America’s most beloved first ladies. Though she experienced great tragedy during her tenure, she always carried herself with poise and grace. Jackie’s class and sophistication were reflected in her style, including her Van Cleef & Arpels emerald and diamond engagement ring. After her and John were married, Jackie made some modifications to the ring, adding round and marquise cut diamonds for an estimated total of 2.12 carats.

5. Queen Elizabeth II

The ring worn by Queen Elizabeth II is as significant as it is beautiful. Prince Philip had it designed with diamonds that once belonged to his mother, Princess Andrew of Greece and Denmark. The ring, fashioned from platinum, features a 3-carat solitaire with five small diamonds flanking each side. At the time of their engagement, Philip had not been granted permission by Elizabeth’s parents, and the two had to wait until she turned 21 to wed.

6. Marilyn Monroe

In 1954, one of Hollywood’s most famous starlets wed Yankee’s legend Joe DiMaggio. It was during their nuptials that DiMaggio gave Monroe the famous platinum eternity band. The ring was fit with 35 baguette-cut diamonds, and was both understated and beautiful. In 1999, the ring was sold at Christie’s for $772,500, despite missing one diamond.

7. Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn got engaged to Mel Ferrer in 1954 while vacationing together in Switzerland. As if that wasn’t romantic enough, Ferrer wowed his bride-to-be with not one, but three rings. The first was a white gold diamond eternity band, followed up with both a rose and yellow gold band. His thought was that Hepburn could wear the rings interchangeably to match her outfits.

8. Mia Farrow

Though their marriage only lasted two years, Mia Farrow’s engagement ring from Frank Sinatra has been deemed one of the most dazzling in history. The pear-shaped diamond weighed a whopping 9 carats and was custom designed by famous Hollywood jeweler, Ruser, whose client list included celebrities like Joan Crawford and Lana Turner. Today, the ring is estimated to be worth approximately $2,000,000.

9. Grace Kelly

The marriage of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III of Monaco was deemed to be “the wedding of the century.” But the wedding wasn’t the only thing people wanted to see. Kelly’s engagement ring featured an incredible 10.47 carat emerald-cut diamond and two baguette diamond flanks. It is reported that the Prince initially proposed with a much simpler ring, but quickly upgraded his future bride’s ring upon realizing that other Hollywood starlets of the time were sporting much more extravagant styles.

10. Priscilla Presley

Elvis Presley and his bride Priscilla wed in Las Vegas in 1967 at the Aladdin Hotel. Elvis had the engagement ring designed by Memphis jeweler, Harry Levitch. The ring boasted a 3.5 carat center stone and twenty smaller detachable diamonds lining the band. Priscilla has said publicly that she still has the ring today and continues to treasure it.

Shop Exquisite Engagement Rings in San Diego

Searching for an engagement ring inspired by one of these icons? Perhaps you’d prefer a fancy cut stone like Mia Farrow’s pear-shaped diamond, or maybe a gemstone like Jackie Kennedy’s emerald. No matter your style, Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers has something special in store for you. Visit our store on San Diego Avenue today and explore all that we have to offer!

*All images courtesy of The Knot

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/10-of-historys-most-famous-engagement-rings/

May Birthstone: Enchanting Emeralds

May is in full bloom! Springtime offers endless beauty and bounty, with flowers and lush greenery everywhere you look. What better gemstone to symbolize the splendor of spring than vibrant green emerald, the captivating May birthstone?

History of Emerald  

Emerald belongs to a group that industry insiders often refer to as the “Big Three.” These are the three most expensive and alluring precious colored gems that have been sought after for centuries: emerald, ruby, and sapphire. In fact, this captivating May birthstone has been worn in jewelry for more than four thousand years. Ancient civilizations from the Inca to the Egyptians revered emerald for its many powerful properties. Pliny the Elder, a Roman philosopher who lived in the first century A.D., wrote that emerald was the only gem that delighted the eye without fatiguing it. Early gem cutters kept emeralds on their work bench to gaze upon from time to time to rest their tired eyes. Modern science confirms Pliny’s claim with findings that prove green is the most restful color for the human eye, as it relieves stress and strain. Besides being easy on the eyes, green emerald was believed to give its wearer the power to see into the future and to recognize the false promises of others. It’s no wonder emerald was a favorite of ancient leaders like Cleopatra, who famously wore them in many of her royal adornments.

Emerald Stone Meaning

Besides its obvious beauty, emerald is treasured for its meaning. In ancient Roman mythology, emerald was the gemstone of the goddess of love, Venus. Though rubies are generally considered the gemstone of romance and passion, emerald was once held in the same regard. Emeralds are said to stir feelings of passion, euphoria, and intense love. They are thought to bring love that is deep and unconditional, making them the perfect romantic gift. The vibrant green hue of emeralds represents vitality, renewal, and starting anew. It’s only fitting that emerald marks the dawn of springtime, a time of rebirth and regeneration.

May Birthstone Colors

The ideal shade for spring, emeralds range in color from yellowish to bluish and can vary from pale mint to deep forest hues. Vivid, deep green emeralds are most prized, while those with too much yellow or blue are less valuable. An ideal emerald will have color that is evenly distributed with just the right touch of transparency.

Most emeralds contain eye-visible clarity characteristics called “inclusions” that result from their formation deep within the earth. These inclusions give each gemstone its own personality and character, an everlasting testament to the natural history of emerald. When a single stone contains a wide variety of inclusions, gemologists call it the “jardín” effect, which is French for “garden,” because they resemble flowers and foliage.

Because of their inclusions, emeralds are delicate despite their relative hardness. Never put emeralds into an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner, and avoid steam cleaning. Ring re-sizing or re-tipping of prongs should only be performed by an accomplished jeweler.

Where is Emerald Found?

Columbia has been the most fruitful source for fine emeralds for over 500 years, with the Muzo mine producing the most stunning jewels in terms of both color and clarity. Brazil also produces stones from the abundant Belmont mine that are typically a little darker in color. Emeralds of very fine color can be found in parts of Africa, though they typically only occur in small carat sizes. Pakistan and Afghanistan are also important producers, though on a much smaller scale.

Shop May Birthstone Jewelry at Leo’s

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we carry a wide variety of luscious green emeralds to fit every style and budget. Whether you’re celebrating a May birthday, anniversary, or engagement, we have a wealth of exquisite emerald jewelry that is sure to surprise your loved one. Choose from new designs or opt for something truly unique like an antique emerald ring or bracelet. Do you have a beloved piece of emerald jewelry that’s in need of repair? Our full-service jewelry store boasts a team of master jewelers on staff to ensure that your precious jewels last a lifetime and beyond! What’re you waiting for? Visit us today!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/05/may-birthstone-enchanting-emeralds/