Daria de Koning
“Gemstones are my canvas and jewelry is my art.”
Los Angeles-based jewelry designer Daria de Koning’s journey to becoming the “Gem Whisperer” began in her childhood, where, instead of Barbies, she avidly collected crystals and shiny rocks. Crafting jewelry from wood beads and plastic, she found her first client in her effortlessly chic grandmother. Through college, where she pursued graphic design, Daria’s passion for jewelry-making continued on the sidelines. A goldsmithing class became the turning point of her life, sparking her desire to create jewelry forever. Daria’s thesis, focused on building her own jewelry brand identity, became the blueprint for her career. It led to a graduate gemology degree at GIA, her first apprenticeship and her venture into designing bespoke engagement rings.
Daria creates art meant to be worn and treasured as pieces of a vast collection of beauty. Her one-of-a-kind jewelry designs never begin in a sketchbook, but in the magical inner world of matrix-rich gemstones. As an artist, the stone’s soul is what speaks to her. She is fascinated by its unique natural colors, patterns, refraction, imperfections and fingerprint. Daria loves using stones that are considered off-beat to create jewels that are unusual, elevated and evocative. She is a matchmaker of colors and shapes that were destined to be together in 18k gold. As Daria “paints with gemstones”, her jewels come to life as colorful, wearable landscapes. Her highly sought-after creations reflect femininity, confidence, and spiritedness. Every piece is exquisite and soulful, with a rich history and future story to tell, making each one a unique collectible.
