How I got started & Who I am

I was truly blessed with an incredible eye for anything beautiful and elegant. You might say that jewelry somehow called my name from the very beginning,(Pre-teen years) and I was destined to do exactly what I do today. I live and breathe jewelry, and it has always been the central focus and passion in my life.

How I started in the southwestern jewelry business dates back to 1973, a pivotal year in my life. Originally from the heart of Chicago, I left for Berkeley, California (yes, during the height of the 60s!) & then later ended up living between Colorado & Oregon.. It was because of Oregon’s persistent clouds and rain, I made the significant decision to move to New Mexico since Oregon was a bit too gloomy for me and thought instead, that I would enjoy the abundant bright sun of the New Mexico. Looking back, this was one of the smartest and most impactful choices I have ever made. If it hadn’t been for that destined relocation, I would not be where I am today, nor would I possess the deep knowledge and appreciation I have developed for southwestern jewelry.

In the early 70's, I was a dedicated silversmith living in Albuquerque. This was a time when many turquoise mines were still open, and 'natural' turquoise was abundant and readily available. Back in those days, when I was fully "hands on" making and designing jewelry, my specialty focused on intricate cluster work, setting numerous tiny 2 mm stones with great precision. The value of impeccable "workmanship" was literally drilled into me endlessly, shaping not only my skills but also influencing "what" and "how" I continue to buy and select even to this day.

I base my buying decisions on a few important factors. First: the piece has to catch my highly trained eye immediately, standing out in a way that reflects unique artistry. Second: the material used must be of exceptional quality, ensuring durability and authenticity. Third: the workmanship has to demonstrate skill and attention to detail. And lastly, I am the type of buyer who loses interest if a piece is made more than ten times, because it then ceases to be a true "One of a Kind" work of art. Instead, it becomes commercial, mass-produced, and widely flooded across the internet. This is the kind of jewelry I pass up quicker than most people can take a breathe. Here in Santa Fe, we often refer to that as "Tourist Jewelry," which lacks the special value and individuality I seek.

I guess what truly separates me from the rest in this business, is for the fact that I genuinely KNOW what I'm selling and have a deep understanding of what I'm talking about. I am not simply doing this to make money or even just for a secondary income. This is my lifelong profession, one that I have dedicated over half a century to, so I bring to the table all of my years of experience and knowledge, enabling me to confidently back up everything I say. Understanding and knowing jewelry, especially the intricate design and cultural significance, cannot happen overnight or even within a single year. It is an ongoing journey, and I continue to keep my ears open, always eager to learn more and deepen my expertise.

I’m a credible and trustworthy seller both online and here in Santa Fe, where I proudly operate a physical store located in the artsy "Guadalupe/Railyard Arts District," just a short distance walk from the historic Plaza. My expertise extends beyond southwestern turquoise jewelry; I also specialize in period pieces, particularly vintage Mexican jewelry, which I stated collecting over 50 years ago, as well as gold and a wide variety of gemstones in different styles and settings.

My business has truly been very blessed over the years, and with each sale I make, I make it a point to pay it forward by donating a portion of my proceeds to those who are struggling in various ways. I generously support many charities, local food banks, and a variety of other important causes. This means that the money you spend with us doesn’t simply go into my pockets; instead, a significant part of it is directed toward helping those in need and, of course, reinvesting in creating even more incredible, authentic jewelry pieces. I genuinely believe that this approach is not only the right thing to do but also helps build a stronger, more caring community for everyone.

We want shopping with us to be your best experience & we go the extra mile to see you are satisfied!

If you come to Santa Fe—or even if you already live here—please make sure to stop by my store. Many visitors say they feel as though they are walking into a beautifully and carefully curated museum, filled with exquisite pieces. I truly hope that your experience will leave you breathless, just as it has for so many others before you!

Plata de Santa Fe Jewelry

333 Montezuma Ave. (Inside the Guadalupe Center)

Santa Fe ,NM 87501

STORE: 505.428.0289