The Women Making Your Future Family Heirlooms
There’s more than meets the eye when it comes to jewelry. Get the big picture with our long-form deep dives into the ever-changing, everlasting jewelry biz.
5 craftswomen cutting edges in a male-dominated industry
These standout women aren't just jewelers—they're artists that live and breathe gems and metals—and their precious, callused hands exhibit hours of tireless work. We've rounded up a selection of craftswomen we know pioneering the jewelry industry with their passion, creativity, and business acumen. Each woman creates one of a kind pieces true to their distinct aesthetics while running an independent, local business. Meet the craftswomen who, simply put, kick-ass on the jeweler bench.
Skelton Jewelry
Pittsburgh-based Samantha Skelton has been crafting her eponymous line since 2012, specializing in delicate pieces with an industrial edge. She creates gender-neutral jewelry for people of all ages, and eye-popping custom pieces, always focusing on quality. Every item is handmade in her studio by Samantha or her studio assistant Rachael, using traditional and modern metalsmithing techniques.
“I've always been a forward thinker. I've challenged what I've learned, questioning everything. If someone says, ‘This is the way you do something.’ I've asked ‘Why?’ Always thinking of a more creative way or a new way to do something has really helped me in my company, but also my art.”
Lisa Robin
Lisa Robin Adkinson worked as an interior designer and a strategic planner before finding her way into jewelry. Based in Dayton, Ohio, Lisa makes bridal, fine, and fashion jewelry, and her style ranges from classic to organic. Lisa thrives when working with clients on custom orders. Even with a team of employees, she still personally works with every client, keeping the vibe intimate and individual.
"Early in my career, I was supported by other women. I want to give back where I can by partnering with those who do good work. This is the foundation upon which I have built my dream: to create an ever-expanding and beautifully bejeweled, compassionate, accepting, and loving community while making the world a more beautiful place. In 2018, I co-founded LUXE Gives Back, LLC, to produce fashion and accessories events designed to give back to the community."
Takohl
Tammy Kohl is a self-made success. She started casually making her jewelry at nineteen, only to be scooped up by major retailers (hello, Saks and Nordstrom). Thirty years later, her Chicago store is a standby for artsy jewelry and fine diamonds and gems. Tammy knows what she's doing—and she has the awards to prove it.
“I’ve always been interested in the scientific aspect of jewelry. Merging the creativity and the science behind it, and making a difference in people’s lives by relieving anxiety and promoting more love and care, not only for themselves but for everyone on the planet, I think it’s an important thing right now. Socially, we’re in a crux where that’s needed not just for women, but for men as well.”
Kristen Baird®
After pursuing architecture and interiors, Savannah-based jeweler Kristen Baird missed making things with her hands and switched gears after taking a jewelry class in college. Kristen creates feminine everyday jewelry but especially loves making heirlooms, which people will value forever and pass down to generations.
“I have a baby-business, and I have a baby-baby. It’s an interesting dynamic, but motherhood has given me this whole new outlook and perspective on life. I’m excited, because I’m inspired to create a new mother-centirc line, something different than the traditional birthstone collections that are going to incorporate family and children in a new twist.”
Cheryl Burchell Goldsmiths
Hailing from the "Gem State" herself, Cheryl Burchell is a self-proclaimed old school jeweler. She has been working as a jewelry designer in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, for forty years and remains committed to honesty and consistency. While she is a custom goldsmith, she also works on repairs, reviving customers' old pieces, and teaching the next generation the tools of the trade.
“It’s always been jewelry for me. I just went right to apprenticeships, watching other bench jewelers work. When I started out in San Louis Obispo, California, I took an art jewelry class but felt like it just wasn’t real jewelry. So I got a job in a jewelry store and started apprenticing with whoever was on the bench. I learned from standing by, being ready to get my hand on it at any moment.”
Editor: Samantha Durbin
Wordsmith: Sydney Pfaff
Every item featured is personally selected by our writers and editors (read: we're totally into it). Please know that when you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission (read: we get to keep doing what we love).