It all started with a single ring in 1970. John Atencio recounts how it all began when asked about the beginning of his journey into the world of jewelry making, before his countless collections and numerous store locations. “I was an art student at Colorado State University when I took a free university class in the basement of the student center, just getting people started to make jewelry,” he says. “I fell in love with it. I made a ring and I gave it to my girlfriend… and I never stopped. I've been making jewelry ever since.”
53 years later, John Atencio still commits to designing every piece of jewelry by starting with a freehand pencil and paper drawing before bringing his creations to his life. What sets John Atencio's creations apart is not just their design but also the craftsmanship and quality behind them. He insists on using the finest materials, from ethically sourced gemstones to the purest metals. Each piece undergoes meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring that it meets his exacting standards of excellence. It's this commitment to quality that has garnered the trust and admiration of clients worldwide.
One of John Atencio's distinguishing features is his ability to create signature collections that transcend time and trends. He describes that each collection tells a unique story. “It's very much like writing a book,” he says. “Each time that I get started on a new collection it's like turning a page and starting a new chapter.” He goes on to describe that every piece and collection has its own unique attributes and way that they highlight the style of the person wearing them. Distinguishing shapes, avant-garde designs and immaculate finishes all play a role in John Atencio’s signature creations but at the forefront of his designs lie his creativity and passion. “There's always pleasure in trying to find something that's different or new and so I find each collection as significant today as I did when I first started,” says John. “I take it pretty seriously, but I don't take it so seriously that I don't have fun and enjoy the process.”
John Atencio's legacy is not confined to the jewelry he creates; it extends to the lives he has touched. His jewelry has become synonymous with milestones, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries and personal achievements. When asked about how his creations have had a significant impact on his clients’ lives, he responds humbly. “The reality is I'm constantly reminded how important jewelry is to people's lives,” he says. “I'm honored that I play the piece in that chain. It's one of the things that's kept me inspired and connected to what I do.”
Beyond his artistic achievements and the lives he’s touched, John Atencio's legacy is also marked by his philanthropic endeavors. He believes in giving back to the communities that have supported his journey. His charitable contributions range from supporting national causes like the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association to local causes supporting children to spearheading initiatives that promote the arts.
When asked what advice he can give to those just starting out in the jewelry industry he describes the ebb and flow of his own vast experiences. “Fasten your seatbelts,” he states. “It's difficult but it's a very worthwhile journey. I'm really happy that I'm still doing it after this amount of time.”
John Atencio's legacy is a testament to the transformative power of beauty. His endless dedication to craftsmanship, commitment to quality and passion for creativity have set a standard of excellence in the jewelry world. True artistic passion has the power to elevate the human spirit, inspire generations, and leave an unforgettable mark. John Atencio's name will always be associated with lasting elegance, artistic inventiveness and the enduring beauty of fine jewelry. JohnAtencio.com