It is boutiques like Hot Rock Jewelry that make the San Diego shopping scene sparkle.

After only a moment in the store I understood why this Solana Beach shop has been featured all over the local news.

Walking into Hot Rock Jewelry is wandering into a dream like treasure cove. Combining the rough and the refined, this is truly a hot spot for picking up remarkable and unworldly accessories. You will not see your average diamond ring here. Instead you will discover statement jewelry made from pink pearls, sliced diamonds, rose gold, and green amber.

After meeting the owner, Linda Rocco, I had to pinch myself just to be sure I wasn’t dozing in my car again. A gem herself, Linda’s leopard spectacles, chic dancing bob and sparkling personality made the Hot Rock experience surreal.

“You must try something on! That is the best part of coming here!”

Knowing I couldn’t afford such fabulosity I declined, but she pushed so I put a giant pearl, white gold and diamond flower ring on my middle finger and lingered in the fantasy. Once I was done playing pretend, Linda introduced me to the stainless pieces for men before beginning my education of the store’s most charming of rocks.

With a voice that bred excitement, Linda informed me of all the materials used in each lavish item and boasted that Hot Rock’s collection is from a mix of international designers, San Diego locals and of course herself.

Being a well-trained gemologist and jewelry designer, Linda not only makes a quarter of the jewelry in her store, she is often commissioned to make bespoke pieces for her clientele. On the very day I chose to peruse the store, Linda had an appointment with a gentleman getting a custom jewelry piece made for his wife of twelve years. Lucky lady.

Discover Hot Rock Jewelry in Solana Beach, find more of the best boutiques and malls in San Diego in our shopping directory, and keep up to speed on style trends in our shopping blog. For more fashion advice or a wardrobe consultation with a personal stylist, visit vanessavaliente.com.