Chelsea K
Senior Designer | Online Design Specialist
GIA Diamond Graduate AJP
Available for Virtual Consultations
I was raised in a creative atmosphere in Southern California. I inherited my passion for fine art from my dad, who creates surrealist paintings and sculptures, while I credit my love of fashion to growing up listening to the hum of my mom's sewing machine and watching her rapidly sketch elongated fashion figures. Jewelry as wearable art has always felt like the perfect combination of my interests.
I earned my bachelor's degree in fashion merchandising from California State University Long Beach, along with my Graduate Diamonds and AJP credentials from the Gemological Institute of America.
I spent five years at Mark Schneider Design, where I worked my way up from apprentice to Design Director. During that time, I designed for the engagement ring and color gemstone jewelry collections, competitions, and custom requests. I’ve been honored with three design awards: First Place Custom Distinction in the MJSA Vision Awards, as well as a commendation and a First Place in the CPAA International Pearl Design Competition.
Outside the design studio, I’m always seeking visual experiences—from touring art museums to hiking through forests—anything that lets me discover inspiring examples of nature, architecture, sculpture, dance, furniture, or clothing. I’m especially drawn to the avant-garde, like Zaha Hadid’s futuristic skyscrapers or Iris Van Herpen’s outlandish evening gowns. By drawing influence from art forms beyond the world of fine jewelry, I aim to create innovative designs that transcend the category and become true works of art.
Learn more about Chelsea
Sample of Chelsea K's portfolio | Custom designs, work and favorite projects