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/

Saturday, January 18, 2020

14 Fun Facts about Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! In just a few weeks, millions of folks will be lining up to surprise their sweetheart with beautiful bouquets and tasty chocolates. But, have you ever wondered why February 14th is designated as a day of love and devotion? Well, we have some answers! Without further ado, here are 14 fun facts about Valentine’s Day:

1. Valentine’s Day originates from a Pagan festival.

There’s some dispute about the true history of Valentine’s Day. One theory is that the holiday derives from an Ancient Roman fertility festival, known as Lupercalia. This pagan celebration was actually quite savage. Animals were sacrificed, and their skins were used to whip women in an effort to stimulate their fertility.

The other theory is that during the reign of Claudius II, young men serving in the Emperor’s army were strictly forbidden from marrying. In an act of defiance, and in the name of true love, St. Valentine is said to have performed marriages in secret. According to legend, he was later executed for his crimes on February the 14th.  

The day was later declared “St. Valentine’s Day” by Pope Gelasius in the 1300’s, becoming an accepted Christian holiday.

2. Handing out Valentines is an ancient tradition.

image of valentine's day card

Surely you remember passing out Valentine’s cards to all of the kids in your elementary classroom. Believe it or not, this custom is over 600 years old. The first known valentine was sent in 1415 by Charles Duke of Orleans, who wrote his wife a poem while locked away in the Tower of London.

3. ‘Vinegar Valentines’ were sent to ward off unwanted suitors.

Beginning in the early 1840s, it wasn’t uncommon to receive a “vinegar valentine.” Rather than messages of love and adoration, vinegar valentines were intended to insult their recipient. Typically sent to ward off an unwanted suitor, vinegar valentines contained exaggerated caricatures and mean-spirited musings. One example from the early 1900s taunts a man for his incurable baldness. Though most vinegar valentines were light hearted, others could be quite offensive.

4. Millions of Valentine’s Day cards are purchased each year.

image of valentine's day greeting cards

Second only to Christmas, Valentine’s Day is the most popular holiday for exchanging greeting cards. According to Hallmark, roughly 145 million greeting cards are sent each year for Valentine’s Day, and that’s just here in the United States. Teachers are said to receive the most cards during Valentine’s Day, with wives, mothers, and children following closely behind.

5. Candy hearts started as medical lozenges.

image of valentine's day candy hearts

Candy conversation hearts are a Valentine’s Day staple, with fun and flirty messages like “Be Mine” or “Call Me.” What most people don’t know is that these iconic heart shaped confections were originally supposed to be medical lozenges. In 1847, Boston pharmacist and inventor, Oliver Chase, created a machine that could quickly produce medical lozenges. Upon realizing the potential of his invention, Chase shifted his attention to making candy instead. He’d later found the New England Confectionary Company, better known as Necco.

6. Valentine’s Day is a preferred time to get engaged.

image of valentine's day engagement

What better occasion to pop the question than a holiday devoted to love and romance? It’s estimated that nearly 6 million couples get engaged on Valentine’s Day each year. In fact, a 2017 survey conducted by diamond retailer, James Allen, found that most millennials prefer to get engaged on Valentine’s Day over other holidays, like Christmas or New Year’s.   

7. Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide.

Valentine’s Day is a holiday that’s celebrated in countries around the world, including England, Mexico, Japan, and many others. In most Latin American countries, the holiday is known as el día de los enamorados (day of lovers) or día del amor y la amistad (day of love and friendship). In addition to celebrating romantic relationships, people will perform various acts of appreciation for family and friends.

In Japan, it’s the women who do most of the gifting. In defiance of former cultural norms, Valentine’s Day is an opportunity for Japanese woman to freely confess their feelings, known as kokuhaku. Every year, on February 14th, the women in Japan shower their loved one with chocolates and other gifts. It may seem strange, and a bit unfair, but don’t worry—the men make up for it. A month later, on March 14th, the Japanese celebrate “White Day.” On this holiday, men get an opportunity to spoil their women with gifts. And unlike the women, the men are expected to spare no expense. It’s customary for the men to spend at least three times the amount that was spent on them.

8. Cupid appears in ancient mythology.

image of cupid valentine's day

Cupid, with his famous bow and arrows, is a well-known symbol of Valentine’s Day. What most people don’t know is that Cupid was a prominent figure in both Greek and Roman mythology. Before he became the childlike character we recognize today, he was known to the Ancient Greeks as Eros, the god of love. The son of Greek goddess, Aphrodite, Cupid would toy with his target’s emotions by striking them with two sets of arrows—one for love, and the other for hate.

The Romans would later recount the tales of Cupid’s mischief in their own mythology. They believed Cupid was the son of Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. It was the Romans who reimagined Cupid as chubby and playful. In fact, in classical Greek art, Eros is portrayed as an irresistible immortal that was chiseled and handsome.

9. Roses are known as the flowers of love.

image of valentine's day roses

It’s hard to imagine a more enduring symbol of romance than red roses. But, how did these beautiful blossoms earn their reputation as an emblem of love and passion? Red roses have been regarded in this way for centuries. In ancient mythology, roses are said to have been the favorite flower of the goddess of love, Aphrodite. Christian cultures correlate red roses with the Virgin Mary, which is why you’ll often see depictions of her surrounded by a floral shroud. And in Shakespeare’s classic sonnets, roses are referenced more than 70 times. It’s no wonder red roses are the quickest to sell out on Valentine’s Day.

10. The chocolate box is more than a century old.

image of valentine's day box of chocolates

In a genius marketing effort, Richard Cadbury began creating enticing chocolate boxes in 1861 in an attempt to bolster sales. His heart shaped boxes with depictions of rosebuds and charming Cupids were an immediate hit. Today, it’s estimated that more than 36 million heart-shaped chocolate boxes are sold each year.

11. “Experience” gifts are becoming increasingly popular.

image of valentine's day experience gift

Rather than traditional Valentine’s Day gifts like chocolate and flowers, a growing number of consumers have gravitated towards “experience gifts.” These gifts include things like concerts, a sporting event, or even a weekend getaway. This trend is especially popular among millennials, who seem to be prioritizing adventures and experiences over material possessions. 

12. Both men and women prefer to receive chocolate.

Despite what you may think, both men and women would rather receive chocolate than flowers on Valentine’s Day. They also appear to have some similar taste in sweet confections. Caramels are consistently the most popular flavor in chocolate boxes, according to the National Confectioners Association. 

13. Jewelry is the priciest Valentine’s Day gift.

image of valentine's day jewelry

While candy and flowers may seem like the hottest sellers, it’s actually jewelry that people spend the most on for Valentine’s Day. The jewelry industry rakes in an astonishing $4.7 billion for this romantic holiday. This is followed by an evening out at $3.7 billion, with flowers, clothing, and then candy trailing behind.

14. People spend a lot on their pets for Valentine’s Day.

It’s no secret that people love their pets. Most pet parents consider their furry friends full-fledged members of the family. So, it only makes sense they’d want to include their pet in holiday festivities. Millions of Americans spend outrageous amounts on their pets for Valentine’s Day, and are estimated to have forked out $886 million in 2019 alone. Whether it’s a new outfit or a special sweet treat, people are thrilled to spoil their cuddly companions. After all, is there a love more true and pure than that of a precious pet? We think not!

Celebrate Your Valentine’s Day at Leo’s!

There’s no better place to shop for Valentine’s Day gifts than Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! Our spacious showroom on San Diego Avenue features an incredible selection of jewelry, watches, and other fine gifts. Shop your favorite brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, David Yurman, and many more! Whether honoring a romantic relationship, a lifelong friendship, or even a parent or sibling, there’s something for everyone at Leo’s. Don’t wait till the last minute, visit us today and discover all that we have in store!



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/14-fun-facts-about-valentines-day/

Thursday, January 9, 2020

Heirloom Jewelry: Redesigning & Repurposing

There’s nothing more sentimental than inheriting a magnificent piece of heirloom jewelry. Whether it’s a piece that’s been in your family for generations, or something special that a relative’s been keeping just for you, heirloom jewelry is truly priceless. Unfortunately for some, their heirloom jewelry just isn’t suited to their style. Maybe it’s an ornate pair of earrings, or a ring that’s two sizes too tiny. Whatever the case may be, there are countless ways you can create something spectacular by redesigning or repurposing your heirloom jewelry. 

What is Heirloom Jewelry?

image of heirloom jewelry brooch

Heirloom jewelry pieces are those which are passed down from one generation to the next. Be it a precious strand of pearls that belonged to your great grandmother, or a timeless diamond tennis bracelet from a distant aunt, heirlooms give you a glimpse into your family’s unique history. While heirloom jewelry grants us a sneak peek at generations passed, it also tends to be a bit dated. In fact, many of these time-honored treasures wind up unworn and shoved in the back of jewelry boxes. Fortunately, there are an abundance of options for turning your heirloom jewelry into a piece you’ll want to wear with pride.

Choosing the Perfect Piece

image of heirloom jewelry ring

If you’ve inherited a collection of items, you may be debating over which item to alter. Many people grapple with guilt about modifying such cherished possessions, which is perfectly normal. It’s natural to have hesitations, but keep in mind that it’s still the same prized piece, just adjusted to your taste. When choosing the right item to repurpose, there are a few factors to consider.

First, which types of jewelry do you prefer wearing? Some people favor wearing a modest pendant necklace, while others tend to opt for earrings or bracelets. The piece you choose to repurpose should be one you’ll feel comfortable wearing. If you have a habit of fidgeting with your hands, then you may want to forgo a bracelet or ring for a necklace or earrings.

Another thing to keep in mind is the quality of the heirloom jewelry in question. Are the pieces made from genuine precious metal? Are the diamonds or gemstones still fairly durable? It’s not recommended to repurpose any items deemed as costume jewelry, like that of Chanel or Versace. Costume pieces can be easily damaged by standard jewelry repair techniques like polishing or steam cleaning, and are best maintained in their original form.

Meeting with a Jeweler

image of antique necklace

Before moving forward with plans to repurpose your heirloom jewelry, you should first meet with a reputable jeweler. They’ll help walk you through the process, as well as answer any questions you may have. If you’re short on ideas for sprucing up your beloved belonging, a jeweler will be able to give you some suggestions that’ll stir up your imagination. Once you have a sense of what you want, your jeweler will work to bring your concept to life with care and impressive attention to detail.

Ideas for Upgrading Your Heirloom Jewelry

image of heirloom jewelry gemstone bracelet
  • Wear your heirloom jewelry in a new way- Perhaps you have a piece of heirloom jewelry you love, but don’t feel comfortable wearing as it was intended. Not to worry! With a little creativity, you can rethink how the piece is worn to make it work for your style. A long necklace can be transformed into a bracelet with a few wraps around the wrist, while a ring can be re-imagined as a delicate pendant.
  • Turn a larger piece into several small pieces- The diamonds from an antique brooch can be used to create a pleasing pair of diamond studs. Or you can take the gemstones from an ultra-glamorous cocktail ring and turn them into a matching pendant and bracelet. Most heirloom jewelry originates from a period when jewelry was handcrafted from metals and gems of the utmost quality. In other words, these treasures, as well as each element that comprises them, were designed to last a lifetime.
  • Reset a precious diamond or gemstone- Have you recently inherited your grandmother’s engagement ring? Or maybe you’ve been gifted a beautiful antique brooch that’s been in your family for centuries. Breathe new life into your beloved heirloom by resetting the precious stones. Plenty of people reset heirloom diamonds or gemstones to craft something splendid. It’s a chance to carry a piece of your loved one with you wherever you go, and an opportunity to create something you can pass on to your own children.
  • Upgrade your metal- As mentioned, heirloom jewelry can be a bit old-fashioned and outdated. Perhaps you have an incredible old mine cut diamond that looks a little dull in its yellow gold setting. Upgrading the metal can make a world of difference. Swapping yellow gold with platinum will help give your diamond a brighter and more radiant appearance.

Redesign Heirloom Jewelry in San Diego

At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers in San Diego, our expert jewelers specialize in custom jewelry creation, and have decades of experience working with antique and vintage heirloom pieces. Combining old-world craftsmanship with the most modern drafting techniques, our master jewelers can make your most irreplaceable items look as modern and eye-catching as ever. Visit our store today to meet with one of our specialists, and watch your heirloom jewelry come to life as something new and extraordinary.



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/heirloom-jewelry-redesigning-repurposing/

Wednesday, January 8, 2020

The History of Engagement Rings: How They Became Popular

A classic symbol of love and commitment today, engagement rings have gone a long way from their debut in Ancient Rome, when women wore the first bone and flint rings. In fact, the history of an engagement ring may actually surprise you. 

Finding someone you want to spend your entire life with is a truly wonderful thing. But before you head out to the best San Diego Jewelry store, wouldn’t you want to know more about the history and significance of engagement rings?

Keep reading to discover fascinating facts about engagement rings and their history! 

Where do engagement rings come from? 

The tradition of engagement rings can be traced back all the way to Ancient Rome when women started wearing first rings made from flint and bone, and then from copper, silver, and gold in the 2nd century CE. The rings were worn as a sign of love and obedience, but also as proof of a business contract. 

According to the GIA, the Gemological Institute of America, gold betrothal rings were popular in Pompeii in 79 CE. Another interesting fact is that Romans often chose to wear an iron ring while at home, and a gold one in public. 

When engagement rings became official 

It was centuries later that engagement rings finally became an official custom. In 850, Pope Nicholas I proclaimed that engagement rings signified the intent of a man to marry. He chose gold as standard material for the ring due to the metal’s popularity at the time. 

But when did diamonds enter the picture? Actually, one of the first documented uses of a diamond engagement ring occurred in the year 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria commissioned a ring with a long and narrow diamond in the shape of the letter “M” to propose to Mary of Burgundy. 

When did engagement rings become popular?

It took centuries for diamond engagement rings to become truly popular after Archduke Maximilian proposed with his unique ring. It was only in the 1930s that diamonds started becoming popular in the United States. It all began in 1947 when De Beers, a British corporation that specializes in mining diamonds, launched an ad campaign that featured Hollywood stars and the now-famous slogan, a diamond is forever.  

Since De Beers kickstarted the diamond ring craze, engagement ring traditions only kept evolving. Modern brides still adore diamonds but have also broadened their preferences to include more extravagant and exotic diamond ring options with colored gemstones and unusual metals. What’s more, the traditions are changing for men too – many grooms nowadays choose to wear “man-gagement” rings alongside their brides.  

Traditions keep on morphing 

Tradition will always have its place when it comes to engagement rings. However, it’s always fun to add something new to the mix every once in a while. Nowadays, brides often opt to wear their engagement ring on the right hand, as opposed to the tradition of wearing it on the fourth finger of the left hand. Also, many women choose to combine their engagement ring and their wedding band into one custom piece. 

Stop by our incredible San Diego jewelry store! 

With such a rich history, engagement rings definitely have a very special meaning. That is why we at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers work so hard to help you find the perfect design for the love of your life. 

Our fantastic jewelry store, located near Downtown San Diego, boasts a sizeable selection of luxe engagement rings of all shapes and sizes. Visit us today! 



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/engagement-rings-when-become-popular/

Engagement Rings & Wedding Rings: Why We Need Both

Getting married is definitely one of the most meaningful moments in anyone’s life. That’s why most people put so much thought and consideration into choosing the ideal jewelry for the engagement and the wedding. But have you ever wondered – why do we need both engagement and wedding rings? What is the meaning of having two rings for each occasion? 

In this article, we will answer some popular engagement ring etiquette questions and help you understand why you should look for the best engagement rings in San Diego, CA and make your significant other as happy as can be. 

Read on to find out why we wear both engagement and wedding rings! 

Why do we have engagement rings and wedding rings?

There’s a difference between both the purpose and the appearance of engagement rings and wedding rings. 

An engagement ring is typically presented during the proposal and tends to be more extravagant, both in terms of looks and price. Engagement rings come in a vast array of different styles – they can have one or more stones of varying sizes, but typically feature a center stone that can be further embellished by two or more smaller stones. 

Wedding rings, on the other hand, tend to be more simplistic and are given at the wedding ceremony when partners exchange vows. While wedding bands can be adorned with precious stones, they are usually smaller and less intricate.

How to wear an engagement ring and wedding band

The placement of wedding and engagement rings can get a bit confusing. In most western countries, the engagement ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand during the engagement. At the wedding ceremony, the engagement ring is moved to the right hand so that your spouse may place the wedding band on your ring finger. 

Once you’re married, you can choose to wear both your wedding ring and engagement ring together, but it’s custom that your wedding band is placed at the bottom of your ring finger. This is because a wedding band should be as close as possible to your heart. Of course, not all brides choose to follow tradition – some of them opt to wear their rings on different hands or stop wearing the engagement ring altogether. 

What is the significance of an engagement ring?

Essentially, an engagement ring serves as a promise of marriage. It symbolizes eternal love, fidelity, and devotion to your partner. While this is the basic meaning of an engagement ring, the style of the ring can also have additional personal meaning that reflects the unique relationship you and your partner share.  

The history of engagement rings is long – they’ve been a symbol of love and commitment for hundreds of years. Historically, engagement rings hold significance for other reasons, as well. Initially, engagement rings might have represented a part of a bride’s price or dowry, in addition to being indicative of the wealth and social status of the groom. 

Shop the best engagement rings in San Diego, CA

Considering the significance of both engagement and wedding rings, it’s only natural that you’d want to take your time when choosing the ring that will symbolize the love you feel for your partner. Luckily, you have Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers to help you choose the perfect style and shape of your ring. 

Our luxurious store near Mission Hills boasts a fantastic collection of engagement and wedding rings you are sure to love. Stop by today and stay tuned for more interesting facts about engagement rings



source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2020/01/engagement-wedding-rings-significance/

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...