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 14^th 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 14^th.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 14^th, 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 14^th, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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/

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?

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

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

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

• 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/

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/

Most Popular Engagement Ring Trends for 2020

There’s nothing more stressful than selecting an engagement ring for your future bride-to-be. There are so many choices to consider, from the size of the diamond, to the type of metal, and every tiny detail in between. Luckily, you can look to current trends to help guide your selection. Planning to pop the question in the New Year? Don’t take the plunge before getting familiar with the most popular engagement ring trends for 2020!

Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

As vintage inspired designs continue to dominate, yellow gold engagement rings have emerged as a leading choice for brides-to-be in 2020. Gleaming gold jewelry was the go-to trend for 2019, with dainty hoops and delicate gold stacking rings prevailing as some of the most popular styles. It was only a matter of time before this jewelry trend found its way to engagement rings. Yellow gold pairs beautifully with traditional solitaires, as well as more modern designs like asymmetrical engagement rings. If you’re in search of a metal that’s easy to care for and flattering on just about everyone, yellow gold makes a superb choice!

Elongated Diamond Engagement Rings

Increasingly, brides-to-be are seeking less traditional diamond shapes for their engagement ring. Pear shapes were seen everywhere in 2019, a trend inspired by the likes of Ariana Grande and Paris Hilton. In 2020, however, expect to see fewer pears and far more oval, emerald, and radiant cuts. Because the demand for these diamond shapes is much less than that of round brilliant cuts, couples can save by opting for an elongated diamond engagement ring.

Elaborate Eternity Bands

Does your future bride ogle over anything that glitters and glistens? Then an elaborate eternity band is an absolute must-have! Eternity bands offer breathtaking sparkle from every angle, with diamonds encircling the entire ring. They’re the perfect stand-in for those days when she doesn’t feel like fussing with her engagement ring, but still wants to dress up her look with diamonds. To make her eternity band truly exceptional, consider choosing fancy shaped diamonds like oval or emerald cuts.  

Solitaire Engagement Rings with Subtle Details

If your blushing bride craves something more classic, a solitaire engagement ring is an ideal choice. Traditional solitaires are stunning all on their own, but the addition of certain subtle details can make them even more exquisite and enchanting. Consider adding embellishments like small side stones, mixed metal prongs, or even a braided metal band inspired by Mother Nature’s magnificence. Depending on your future bride’s style, there are plenty of delicate details you can select to make her ring even more remarkable.  

Hidden Halo Engagement Rings

Speaking of discreet details, 2020 will be the year of hidden halo engagement rings. While halo settings have reigned supreme for years, this new variation is another option for those seeking something more soft and understated. When viewed from the top, the ring simply looks like a solitaire. But, when viewed from the side, the intricacies of the hidden halo are revealed for a splendid and sparkling surprise!

Colored Gemstone Engagement Rings

As far as engagement ring trends go, colored gemstones always make an alluring alternative to your ordinary diamond. Gemstones like ruby, sapphire, and emerald are all excellent choices, offering a bolder, brighter appearance than colorless diamonds. If planning to purchase a gemstone engagement ring, be sure the gem you choose is durable enough for everyday wear. Stones like opal, peridot, and garnet are poor choices for an engagement ring, as they tend to be softer and less stable.

Sustainable Engagement Rings

In recent years, a growing number of consumers have concerned themselves with brand transparency and sustainability. In other words, they seek to support retailers whose values and practices align with their own. This surge of conscious consumers has paved way for a flourishing lab-grown diamond industry, with well-known vendors like Brilliant Earth, James Allen, and even De Beers jumping on board. While naturally mined diamonds continue to saturate the market, it’s only a matter of time before lab-grown substitutes are a commonplace offering in jewelry stores worldwide.

Shop the Latest Engagement Ring Trends at Leo’s

Wondering where you can shop the latest engagement ring trends? There’s only one place in San Diego that offers all of these styles, and so much more, and that’s Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers! Our spacious showroom on San Diego Avenue boasts an unrivaled selection of astonishing engagement rings that are sure to dazzle your special someone. Delight her with a one-of-a-kind antique engagement ring that’s rich in beauty and history. Perhaps she’d prefer a vintage-inspired design that oozes charm and character. Or maybe she has her heart set on something sleek and sophisticated, like an oval solitaire with hidden halo details. No matter which style she fancies, you’re sure to find something in store at Leo’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/12/most-popular-engagement-ring-trends-for-2020/

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Christmas

With less than a week left till Christmas, you’re probably feeling the pressure to get all of your holiday shopping done in time. The stores are all in disarray, jam-packed with people braving ridiculously long lines. Sounds pretty dreadful, huh? Not to worry- at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers, we’ve got plenty of last minute gift ideas for everyone left on your list! Plus we offer convenient parking, a comfortable showroom with complimentary snacks and beverages, and best of all—unparalleled customer service!

New Lana Jewelry Black Onyx & Crystal Jet Earrings

This Christmas, give her a gorgeous gift she’ll be thrilled to find under the tree. These Lana Jewelry earrings make the perfect gift for the stylish lady in your life. Set with black onyx and crystal jet, these earrings are equal parts elegant and edgy. Whether she’s rocking her best little black dress, or a glittering getup for New Year’s Eve, these alluring earrings are the ultimate finishing touch to light up her look!

New Deakin & Francis Skull Bangle

Men’s jewelry has had a moment in 2019, a trend that will undoubtedly continue into 2020. Help your man keep up with the latest fashions by surprising him with this Deakin & Francis skull bangle. This is one piece of jewelry he’ll be excited to wear with every outfit, from his sharpest suit to his favorite jeans and tee. The braided bracelet and skull details make this bangle truly standout, so he’s sure to make a statement, no matter what he’s wearing!

New Woman’s Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance

Want to surprise your sweetheart with a timepiece she’ll treasure forever? This Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance is an alluring and affordable option she can wear everywhere. With delightful details like a two-tone bracelet, mother-of-pearl dial, and Swarovski crystal hour indexes, this watch is the embodiment of style and sophistication.   

New Hearts On Fire® Love Code Forget You Never Band

The holidays are a wonderful time of year, packed full of sweet sentiments and nostalgia. It’s no wonder couples often take this time to reflect on and celebrate their unique love story. And what better way than with this Hearts On Fire® Love Code Forget You Never band? Crafted from the highest quality 18k gold, this band is beautifully dainty and delicate. Knots have traditionally been considered a symbol of love and affection, making this ring ideal for gifting as a promise ring.

New Blue Sapphire Pendant Necklace

Whether it’s a mother-in-law, or an aloof aunt that only comes around once a year, we all have that one family member that’s impossible to shop for. No need to sweat it! You can’t go wrong with colorful gemstone jewelry, like this breathtaking blue sapphire pendant. The petite oval sapphire is the ideal shape and size for daily wear, its blue hue emphasized by the yellow gold setting. Give your loved one the gift of joy, fulfillment, and prosperity with this stunning piece of sapphire jewelry. 

New Man’s Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance

Searching for a sleek and stylish gift for him? This Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance watch makes an excellent choice! The watch’s stainless steel design contrasts beautifully with its deep blue dial, for a polished and pristine overall look. The best part about this watch? It’ll fit neatly within your budget, with a price tag of only $270! 

New Denny Wong Turquoise Island Bracelet

Does your loved one have an affinity for the Hawaiian Islands? Maybe they’ve taken a memorable vacation or celebrated a special occasion in Hawaii that’s left them forever longing to go back. Help them keep their memories vivid with this one-of-a-kind Denny Wong Treasure Island turquoise bracelet. Each link of this bracelet depicts a separate segment of the Hawaiian Islands in 24k gold leaf, so they can take a piece of paradise with them wherever they go!

New Victorinox Swiss Army Classic Pocket Knife

The toughest challenge of gift giving? Finding them something they’ll actually use. But not this year! This Victorinox Swiss Army Classic Pocket Knife is the ultimate gift for practicality and functionality, with 7 handy features. Equipped with a nail file, tweezers, a toothpick, and even a small screwdriver, this pocket knife proves useful in a variety of scenarios. Packaged neatly in a colorful casing, this pocket knife is one tool you’ll want to carry on all of your adventures!

New Wolf Designs Jewelry Box

Before splurging on a dazzling pair of diamond earrings or a romantic ruby ring, make sure she has somewhere safe to store all of her treasures. This Wolf Designs jewelry box is the ideal size for keeping all of her jewelry, with several compartments for rings, bracelets, and necklaces. It even comes equipped with a mini mirror, so she can accessorize with ease.

Score Last Minute Gifts for Less at Leo’s!

Don’t waste one more minute fighting crowds at the mall, or trying to get your online orders placed in time. Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers and get your shopping done all in one place! There’s still time left to score last minute gifts that won’t break your budget—only at Leo Hamel’s!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/12/last-minute-gift-ideas-for-christmas/

December Birthstones History & Meaning

December birthstones aren’t the colors you’d expect, as shopping during the month of December you’re bombarded with holiday hues like red and green. But when shopping for a December baby, you have an entirely different color palette to discover. Shopping for a loved one born in the month of December can be a little tricky since you have to find them a birthday gift in addition to a holiday gift. However, you can make searching for the perfect gift easier by purchasing beautiful December birthstone jewelry!

December babies are lucky enough to have not two, but three different birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. These glittering gemstones range from the oldest on earth (zircon), to one of the first mined and used in jewelry (turquoise), to one of the most freshly discovered (tanzanite). All of the December birthstones are available in a variety of shades ranging from blue to violet, so you’re sure to find something to entice your loved one. Here are some fascinating details about these dazzling December birthstones to help you decide! 

Turquoise: A Precious Ancient Gemstone

​Revered since ancient times, turquoise is known for its distinct color, which ranges from bright robin’s egg to pastel blue to a light bluish green. Turquoise might lack the sparkle and clarity of transparent colored gemstones, but what it lacks in brilliance, it makes up for in soul-satisfying color. This December birthstone has been highly regarded for thousands of years by cultures like the Native Americans, Aztecs, and the ancient Egyptians. Throughout its history, people have attributed special powers to turquoise. Turquoise is thought to offer safety from misfortune and ward off ill will. Turquoise is also thought to protect its wearer from harm while bringing good luck and longevity. In lighter shades, turquoise energy is believed to promote inner harmony and tranquility. Darker, richer tones are alleged to counter intolerance and allow us adapt to new ideas and environments.

The word turquoise means “stone from Turkey” since the gemstone was brought from Turkey to Western Europe. Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, which makes it ideal for carving unique pieces of jewelry. If you know a December baby who loves bold, statement accessories, they are sure to love turquoise jewelry.

How to care for turquoise:

No matter the kind of turquoise jewelry you decide to gift your December loved one, it’s important that they know to take special care of it. High temperatures can damage its surface or cause discoloration. Exposure to chemicals, cosmetics, and even the natural oils in skin can alter its color. Turquoise should always be cleaned with warm soapy water, never in steam or ultrasonic cleaners.

Blue Zircon: Beautiful from the Beginning

​Zircon is the oldest natural mineral on Earth, dating back 4.4 billion years. Zircon can be found in a myriad of colors, including blue, brown, green, orange, yellow, red, and even clear. Heat treatment is commonly used to intensify these beautiful colors. During the middle ages, people believed zircon could stimulate sound sleep, ward off evil, and deliver prosperity and wisdom. Today, zircon is considered a grounding stone that heightens confidence and compassion. With this gemstone, you have plenty of beautiful color options. While blue zircon is a common December birthstone, you can certainly purchase other colors to match your December-born loved one’s favorite hue. That way, you know you’re buying a can’t-miss gift!

How to care for blue zircon:

As with turquoise, zircon requires special care. Zircon tends to be brittle, so it’s best worn and stored in a manner that avoids hard rubbing against other materials. Since most zircon is heat treated, there’s a possibility it may revert back to its original color if exposed to high heat and bright light for prolonged periods of time. Warm, soapy water is best for cleaning zircon. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should not be used for this December birthstone.

Tanzanite: Modern & Extraordinary

​Unlike most gemstones that have been beloved for centuries, tanzanite’s history is relatively modern. Discovered in 1967, tanzanite is an exquisite blue-to-purple variety of the mineral zoisite and can only be found in a single region of the world. This gorgeous blue December birthstone was named after its exclusive geographic origin in Tanzania. Tiffany & Co. was actually the first company to market blue zoisite as tanzanite, and the name seems to have stuck. 

Tanzanite has become one of the most popular blue gemstones, second only to sapphire. The captivating color of tanzanite ranges from lush blue to vibrant violet to deep, rich purple. Tanzanite is actually a very unusual gemstone. One of the most alluring aspects of tanzanite is its pleochroic quality. This means tanzanite can reveal different colors when viewed from various directions. Between its exotic color and scarce supply, tanzanite is treasured by many and makes an excellent December birthstone gift.

How to care for tanzanite:

While tanzanite can be worn in all kinds of jewelry, proper discretion should still be taken against rough wearing or hard blows. Tanzanite is stable under normal wearing conditions- it’s resistant to the effects of heat, light, and common chemicals. However, it should still not be overly exposed. Warm, soapy water is the best way to clean tanzanite. It is not recommended for ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Shop Darling December Birthstone Gifts

​No matter which December birthstone you think is best suited for your loved one, they are sure to feel simply stunning wearing jewelry with such significance and symbolism. We’re bound to have what you’re looking for in our luxurious collection. Visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers on San Diego Avenue and explore our stunning turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite offerings!

source https://www.leohamel.com/blog/index.php/2019/12/december-birthstones-history-meaning-2/