KIMA is the work of Isabel Dennis, a fine jeweler based in Oakland, CA. Isabel trained under master diamond setter Alexandre Sidorov in Antwerp, Belgium, and specializes in traditional pavé, wax carving, and diamond setting. Her custom and bespoke creations marry old-world metalsmithing and setting techniques with the use of modern technology like microscopes and pneumatic engraving machines. Each piece is hand-cut and set in house, pairing unique modern and antique gemstones with deliberately challenging design elements in an effort to always be advancing her craft.
KIMA is the work of Isabel Dennis, a fine jeweler based in Oakland, CA. Isabel trained under master diamond setter Alexandre Sidorov in Antwerp, Belgium, and specializes in traditional pavé, wax carving, and diamond setting. Her custom and bespoke creations marry old-world metalsmithing and setting techniques with the use of modern technology like microscopes and pneumatic engraving machines. Each piece is hand-cut and set in house, pairing unique modern and antique gemstones with deliberately challenging design elements in an effort to always be advancing her craft.
KIMA is the work of Isabel Dennis, a fine jeweler based in Oakland, CA. Isabel trained under master diamond setter Alexandre Sidorov in Antwerp, Belgium, and specializes in traditional pavé, wax carving, and diamond setting. Her custom and bespoke creations marry old-world metalsmithing and setting techniques with the use of modern technology like microscopes and pneumatic engraving machines. Each piece is hand-cut and set in house, pairing unique modern and antique gemstones with deliberately challenging design elements in an effort to always be advancing her craft.
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#1. Q: Can you share a motto, mantra, quote or verse that serves as a continual source of inspiration for you?
A: “Leap and the net will appear.” - John Burroughs
#2. Q: Why is having a positive impact through jewelry important to you
A: I studied Environmental Studies at university and ended up as a jeweler - a career far afield from those classrooms. But the principles I learned in my degree - industrial ecology, environmental justice, waste management - apply to all industries, and jewelry is no exception. Having an understanding of the impact of my work - from the human and environmental impacts of materials production, to the supply chain and how sourcing affects sustainability, to the life-cycle of an old piece of jewelry - gives me a framework of values in which to create.
#3. Q: What’s your favorite gemstone and why? (If it’s too hard to pick one, what are your top 3?!)
A: Call me old school - I love diamonds and sapphires, especially antiques. I’d also add spinel - it’s not well known but it’s been used for centuries, the colors and sparkle are just gorgeous, and it’s durable!