It’s no secret that accessories are integral for fashion and style - especially jewelry. But when the latest fads take over, it’s easy to get bored dressing up a new look with the same bracelet or necklace everyone else seems to be wearing. Carlos De León, a local jeweler, recognized that feeling a long time ago, realizing it was time to get creative.
De León has created countless custom jewelry pieces that commemorate the unforgettable memories of thousands of people since he started his business, De León Jewelry Studio, back in 2012. His talents have led him to work with clients all over the world, as far as Africa and Hong Kong, and now, he’s ready to create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry for you, unlike anything you’ve seen before.
How did you get started in the business?
I worked at a small pawn shop in Boston for eight years before it shut down and I had to figure out my next move. I was always interested in jewelry, so I moved to New York because I realized I wanted to study diamonds and gemstones. After attending the Gemological Institute of America, I worked with major corporations and then jewelry manufacturers doing product development, design, and merchandising. That launched my career.
What made you interested in custom design?
My brother asked me for help creating an engagement ring 25 years ago. After that, people started asking me for favors. They wanted to get their own special jewelry piece made to remember or commemorate something special. It became a side business for me that kept growing organically.
What are the first steps of creating a custom piece?
I don’t have a jewelry store. I meet all my clients privately on a one-on-one basis and walk through a really unique process. Everything is made from scratch, so we go over everything from ideas to budget. I share my experience and knowledge, guiding them through the entire process. We create pieces that are incredibly special to our clients.
What happens next?
After I speak with a client and we narrow down an idea, the idea gets sent over to one of my sketch artists. The design is then 3D printed before it’s made so that the client can see a mock version of it first.
What do you think is most important when creating a new piece?
Trust. Everyone I work with is through referral, so there’s typically some trust already established with my clients because they get referred. I partner with people who are masters at their craft and have the same level of passion as I do.
I have remade pieces for clients because I am so particular. They probably would have never noticed what I saw, but I did.
What is something that has surprised you about your work?
I didn’t realize this industry was going to take me around the world and it did. I love the freedom that comes with not owning a traditional brick and mortar store. I’ve now built my own network.
What’s your favorite part about creating custom pieces?
The reaction. Those give me goosebumps to this day.
How long does it take for a piece to be completed?
It typically takes 4-6 weeks once a design is agreed upon.
I treat every client as if I'm working on that first engagement ring for my brother. It has to be perfect.