As a graduate of the University of Missouri with an archaeology/anthropology major, I have always felt a close connection with history and the Earth, and I collected rocks from the time I could walk. 
 
When I had the opportunity to take classes from the Gemological Institute of America, I was in heaven and I completed my Graduate Gemologist certification in 1988.

I worked in several retail jewelry stores over the next few years but it wasn't until 1999 that I was able to take a bench jewelry class. 
 
The class opened a whole new world of creativity for me. 

I am fascinated by the endless beauty of colored stones and never seem to run out of ideas for ways to mount and set off their colors. 
 
I love working with various metals, creating texture, finishes and patinas, to enhance the stones.  My pieces are one of a kind. 

I make my home in Loveland, Colorado and market my jewelry under Jewel Lyn Designs.