About

 

KRISTINA "Tina" BRIGHT

GIA Graduate Gemologist, GIA AJP

Jewelry with a personal touch for over 25 years. Limited edition pieces crafted by hand, one at a time. There is no large factory studio with machines and minions, it's just me. I wear all the hats: creator, designer, maker, bookkeeper, web administrator, photographer and jewelry polisher. 

Each piece is an individual inspiration, created with intention and love. My diverse collection will ebb and flow, yet always focus on quality pieces made to last.

 

A little history about me...

My great-grandfather emigrated to the US with his wife in the early 1900’s from Iceland.  The occupation listed on his Declaration of Intention with the United States was “Jeweler.”  He went on to own the Ballard Time Shop in Seattle for many years.  As my father was adopted, I only met Johann once, but clearly his passion and life’s work resonates with mine.  With tools in my hands since I was 8 years old, jewelry has been a passion of mine most of my life.  I turned that love into a small business in 1990 although most of what I made was given as gifts. Today my jewelry continues as a venture I pursue with passion and creativity. Envisioning beautiful wearable art and providing excellent customer service are my top priorities.

I hand make many elements of my pieces including the all-important clasp. I meticulously craft many of my ear wires sterling silver and occasionally work in 14k and 18k gold. Each piece is made by me and incorporates fine quality freshwater pearls, gemstones, that genuine Austrian crystal and handmade glass. The hammered details in my work are forged with high quality German tools and polished to a high luster shine. I also use a variety of hand-tools for the custom texturing on my pieces. No two pieces are exactly alike.  My work is the culmination of my love, skill, grit, endurance and giving.  I love making gifts you give to yourself and gifts you give to your loved ones. It is my true joy to make jewelry that speaks to your life and life milestones.

There is no tribe of minions or hired hands, just me working at my bench and negotiating all the endless details that running a small business is about. You the customer keeps the engine of our communities alive, thank you!

Awards

  • Collective Visions Gallery Show (CVG Show)
    • 2016 “Tribal Dance” necklace
    • 2010 “You are My Sunshine” ring
  • The RAGS Wearable Art Show Marketplace, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014
  • The RAGS Wearable Art Show Gallery, 2011, 2012
  • Best of 3D Art- Old Town Silverdale Art Walk, September 2009

BACKGROUND:

My educational background is in the fine and performing arts with a B.A. degree in Music, Vocal Performance and advanced studies in Theatre at Seattle Pacific University. I continue my education in jewelry and gemstones and have completed the Graduate Gemologist Diploma (GG) and Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).  

My husband Don and I have 4 grown children between us, two granddaughters, and enjoy traveling, running, urban hiking and spending time on our boat cruising the Puget Sound and moored on Lake Union.  When I’m not immersed in jewelry and gemstones I enjoy visiting with my kids, singing and playing piano, playing tennis, running, studying Continuing Ed in Gemology, reading, and cooking amazing plant based meals.