Why to work with a designer.

Sketch image with pencil.

Getting a custom design right the first time can be tricky.

We create new, original designs every day for people all over the U.S. and beyond. Our designers specialize in knowing what's possible and suggesting innovative customization options.

You may be unsure of how to estimate the cost of a custom design.

We do a LOT of custom... It's our focus and our passion. To do this, we have to find a way to make each design fit the proposed budget. Check our reviews, we are very proud that over 85% of our clients are referrals.

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Weekly Designer Spotlight

Brooke C
Senior Designer
Bellevue Studio
Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
My professional career actually began in Germany, where I worked as a graphic designer for the U.S. Air Force. Eventually, I returned to the States and relocated to my home state of Georgia. I was hired at a small Mom & Pop jewelry store in Atlanta, where I learned the ins and outs of the fine jewelry business. Thanks to the knowledge I gained there I was recruited by a shop in Savannah, where I rose through the ranks to become sales manager. Since then, I’ve worked with big-box chains and continued expanding my education through courses with the Diamond Council of America and the Gemological Institute of America.
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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.
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Ellen L
Senior Designer
Bellevue Studio
BFA Cornish College of the Arts Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
I grew up right here in Washington, surrounded by the natural inspiration of the mountains and water. With so much creativity and beauty around me, it felt natural to pursue a career in an artistic field. In 2017, I graduated from Cornish College of the Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design. Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to explore a wide variety of mediums. From crafting a 3D model of DNA out of stained glass to designing an app to navigate Seattle’s traffic, I’ve worked hard to build a broad base of knowledge that I can draw from in every design project.
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Erich M
Senior Designer
Bellevue Studio
GIA AJP Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
I'm a freelance illustrator and exhibiting painter who started out as an expatriate living in the heart of Austria before moving to the United States. My artwork has been exhibited in galleries across the U.S., Europe, and Australia. In 2011, I began pursuing a career in fine jewelry, starting with an AJP certification from the Gemological Institute of America. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to apply my background in art to designing custom engagement, wedding, and family jewelry.
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Melissa T
Senior Designer
Online Design Specialist
Founding Artist, GIA Diamond Graduate & AJP Available for Virtual Consultations
I got my first glimpse into the jewelry world as a kid, earning quarters for spotting tiny melee diamonds on the shop floor and watching in awe as my dad fired up his torch, shaping metal into something magical and meaningful. With a natural artistic streak and love of people, what began as a creative curiosity eventually became a full-time career. I began at Green Lake Jewelry Works as a young adult, spending a decade designing with clients in the Seattle studio. During that time, I mentored new designers, helped shape internal systems, and supported both the creative and operational sides of a fast-growing company. I also earned GIA certifications as a Graduate Diamonds & AJP. My work has been featured in Washington Wedding Day and I have been mentioned in In Store Magazine.
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Rebecca P
Senior Designer
Seattle Studio
BFA Jewelry Design | Metalsmithing RISD Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
I marry my passion for precious metals and gemstones with the fast-paced, creative energy of developing unique ideas - always working closely with a team of master craftspeople on behalf of my clients. After earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry Design and Metalsmithing from the Rhode Island School of Design, I spent my early years working with several high-end fine jewelers in Boston. Later, I moved to New York City, where I spent a decade designing fashion jewelry for global brands. With a strong technical foundation in structural design and a fashion-forward approach to translating sketches into beautiful pieces, I’ve developed the ability to troubleshoot quickly and communicate design visions clearly and effectively.
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Christine D
Design Group Assistant Manager
Senior Designer | Seattle Studio Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
I've been with Green Lake Jewelry Works for over seven years, guiding clients through the custom design process. With all the options that custom design offers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at first - especially if you’ve never designed a piece of jewelry before! That’s where I come in. I love sitting down with clients to learn about what they're hoping to create, and then walking them through each decision step-by-step to help bring that vision to life.
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Britt G
Designer & CAD Modeler
Bellevue Studio
BFA Jewelry Design | Metalsmithing Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
I’m a seasoned custom jewelry designer and CAD modeler with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry Design and Metalsmithing from the University of Georgia. With over a decade of experience in the jewelry industry - including many years focused on CAD work - I bring a deep understanding of both design and structure to everything I create. I was originally drawn to jewelry by the beauty of the materials and the endless creative possibilities. Over the years, I’ve built a well-rounded skill set that allows me to seamlessly combine my background in benchwork, Matrix/Rhino CAD training, and a sharp eye for detail. My goal is always to design pieces that are not just visually stunning, but also structurally sound and practical to wear.
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Maddie T
Designer
Seattle Studio
GIA AJP Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
My lifelong love for jewelry started in childhood - pretty much as soon as I could dress myself. I had an early eye for accessorizing and cherished every visit to the jewelry store with my dad for special occasions. I still remember the joy of trying on pieces, draping myself in pearls, and balancing oversized rings on my fingers. But my passion for accessories is only part of the story. I bring a diverse blend of education and experience to my work. I graduated from the University of Washington with double majors in Art History and Communications and earned my Applied Jewelry Professional certification from the Gemological Institute of America. Together, these have given me a strong foundation for a career in jewelry.
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Sasha P
Designer
Seattle Studio
GIA Graduate Gemologist, JDT Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
Jewelry has been part of my life from a very early age. My mom was a jewelry designer who worked with pearls, so I grew up watching her create and fell in love with the process early on. What started as second nature became a genuine passion - one that’s grown with me over the years. In college, I started buying and selling vintage gold pieces just for fun, and quickly found myself completely hooked. That passion led me to the Gemological Institute of America, where I dove headfirst into Gemology and Jewelry Design & Technology. But for me, jewelry isn’t just a career - it’s an expression of who you are. I love collecting unique custom and vintage pieces, mixing metals and gemstones, and styling jewelry as a form of personal expression. I believe jewelry should be fun! It’s a powerful way to show off your personality, tell your story, and reflect your individual style.
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Aleta K
Designer
Bellevue Studio
GIA Graduate Gemologist Available for in-studio consultation
I bring over 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, along with a lifelong passion for gemstones and design that began in childhood. I’m a proud graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), where I completed the Gemology, Jeweler, Design, and Applied Jewelry Arts programs. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various facets of the industry - including design, sales, and gemstone buying - which has allowed me to hone a well-rounded and deeply informed approach to custom jewelry.
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Angela V
Designer
Seattle Studio
Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
My fascination with gemstones and design started early, thanks to attending gem shows with my grandmother, who crafted traditional bead jewelry. That early exposure sparked a lifelong passion that eventually led me to a rewarding career spanning over a decade in the jewelry and coin industry in Orange County, California. Over the years, I’ve gained experience working with high-value pieces, guiding clients toward meaningful selections, and handling precious metals with precision and care. I’m truly a gemstone enthusiast - especially captivated by the color-changing magic of Alexandrite, the rich hues of Rubellite Tourmaline, and the timeless elegance of aquamarine and sapphire.
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Cait U
Designer
Seattle Studio
Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
My path to jewelry design has been shaped by a lifetime of creativity and curiosity. I was inspired early on by my uncle, a gem wholesaler, who introduced me to the enchanting world of gemstones. My eye for design and artistic talent were also deeply influenced by my father, a renowned and highly awarded Design Engineer at Boeing, who taught me drafting skills and nurtured my creative spirit. Stemming from their influence, one day I unexpectedly sketched a custom ring on a bar napkin - perfectly capturing a client’s vision and igniting my passion for turning imagination into tangible art.
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Grace E
Designer
Seattle Studio
Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
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Design with Grace E

Michael N
Designer
Bellevue Studio
I’m a Seattle-born jeweler with a deep appreciation for both nature and craftsmanship. Before entering the jewelry world, I spent nearly a decade working as a gardener, a background that naturally shaped my transition into metalsmithing and, eventually, fine jewelry. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills with three years as a bench jeweler and two as a personal jeweler and consultant before joining Green Lake Jewelry Works. I also hold a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) certification and bring a thoughtful, grounded approach to each client experience.
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Nicholas H
Designer
Bellevue Studio
I’m an artist and designer at heart, and I bring a vibrant blend of creativity and technical skill to every piece I create. I graduated from the Gemological Institute of America’s Jewelry Design and Technology program, where I developed a strong foundation in hand rendering, digital illustration, and CAD design - along with deep knowledge of manufacturing processes and gemstones.
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Pia G
Merchandising Director
Non-Bridal Buyer
My work in the jewelry world has always been about connecting people with pieces that feel just right. As the Merchandising Director and Non-Bridal Buyer, I curate collections that reflect thoughtful craftsmanship, timeless design, and the voices of independent artists. Whether I’m sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces or developing new product lines, I’m always thinking about what will resonate with our clients and feel meaningful to wear.
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Brant K
Gem Dept. Director
Gemstone Buyer
Designer | Either Studio by appointment Available for in-studio and virtual consultations
As Green Lake’s lead GIA-trained diamond buyer, I personally seek out the finest gemstones at the best value for our custom jewelry clients. With over 35 years of experience across jewelry retail, wholesale, and manufacturing, I bring a deep level of knowledge and credibility to the custom design process - something I take great pride in sharing with every client I meet. Those clients often tell me that what stands out most is not just my eye for stones, but the genuine care I bring to every interaction. For me, it’s an honor to be part of someone’s story through a gemstone that will be cherished for generations. I’ve always had a passion for gemstones. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I was a self-proclaimed “rock hound,” spending my time collecting fossils and minerals. That childhood hobby eventually grew into a lifelong career - one that has taken me around the world in search of exceptional stones. From direct buying trips in Hong Kong, Israel, and New York, I’ve had the privilege of sourcing truly special gems for clients who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.
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Bailey H
Greeter
With a BA in Writing Studies and a passion for creativity, Bailey has always found joy in artistic expression. Her professional journey led her through the worlds of food and retail, but it was a role at a big box jewelry store during college that revealed a surprising and lasting love for fine jewelry. After finishing her degree, Bailey set her sights on a company that valued artistry and connection - eventually finding her way to Green Lake Jewelry Works, where she feels right at home among gemstones, creative minds, and beautiful design.
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Cody A
Greeter
Apprentice Jeweler
I bring a diverse artistic background to my work at Green Lake Jewelry Works, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in design from Cornish College of the Arts. Before diving into the world of jewelry, I explored a variety of creative paths - from fashion pattern making to print materials and even branding for safety gear. But my passion for metalwork started back in high school, where a metal design class first sparked my interest. I began creating wire-woven jewelry pieces, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Outside the studio, I enjoy drawing and knitting, and I find endless inspiration in nature, wildlife, and music. I’m also a bit of an adventurer - I love off-roading and camping in my Jeep during the summer. I used to compete in western dressage, and that experience gave me a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, detail, and discipline.
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Hunter O
Greeter
I joined Green Lake Jewelry Works with a deep love for hands-on craftsmanship and a passion for creative expression. Originally from Olathe, Kansas, I moved to Seattle in 2024 to be with my partner - and to experience the natural beauty and vibrant energy of the Pacific Northwest. Since 2019, I’ve been running my own online shop where I design and sell handcrafted jewelry. That experience as a maker has given me a strong appreciation for the time, care, and creativity that goes into every piece.
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