CHELSEY: Before Starling, I had another jewelry company, but it failed miserably. It was very artsy–a collection of silver and diamond jewelry. I poured a lot of effort into it, but at the time, I only had experience making jewelry, not selling or marketing it. Starling was born in response to that. I wanted to create simple, high-quality fine jewelry that was colorful, personal, and easy to buy online. It was also the early days of DTC brands, and I felt the fine jewelry space was lacking in that area.
CHELSEY: Before Starling, I had another jewelry company, but it failed miserably. It was very artsy–a collection of silver and diamond jewelry. I poured a lot of effort into it, but at the time, I only had experience making jewelry, not selling or marketing it. Starling was born in response to that. I wanted to create simple, high-quality fine jewelry that was colorful, personal, and easy to buy online. It was also the early days of DTC brands, and I felt the fine jewelry space was lacking in that area.
CHELSEY: Starling started as simple fine jewelry, but it really took off when I infused more of my personal love for large, colorful gems and bespoke projects back into the brand. That’s become one of the most joyful and satisfying parts of running Starling. My “why” is our clients and the art of creating. Working with them on meaningful pieces, hearing their stories, and knowing what we craft will be cherished for years to come—that’s what keeps me going.
CHELSEY: Starling started as simple fine jewelry, but it really took off when I infused more of my personal love for large, colorful gems and bespoke projects back into the brand. That’s become one of the most joyful and satisfying parts of running Starling. My “why” is our clients and the art of creating. Working with them on meaningful pieces, hearing their stories, and knowing what we craft will be cherished for years to come—that’s what keeps me going.
Chelsey is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in White Casual Cotton, Montecito Pullover Sweater in White and our Wexford Wide-Leg Linen Pant in Cement.
CHELSEY: We became SCS certified in 2020 for using 100% post-consumer recycled gold and gemstones. Fine jewelry is naturally a more sustainable industry because gold and gems are precious, and nobody knowingly throws them away. It just takes a little extra effort to bring sustainability to the forefront.
I’m deeply fascinated by gemstones. They’re magical, formed by the earth over millions of years. I want to know everything about them—their origins, the mine, the miner—because that’s part of their story. When we don’t use post-consumer recycled stones, I source from fair-trade and responsibly sourced gem dealers.
In 2018, we launched Heirloom Revival to recycle and remake what you already own. I truly believe the largest diamond mine is sitting in our homes. It’s one of my favorite ways to collaborate with clients–it’s creative, unique, and always deeply personal. Whether it’s sentimental or cathartic, it’s a joy to transform old treasures into something new. The beauty of fine jewelry is that its materials are timeless–let’s dig them out and reimagine them so they can be worn and loved again.
CHELSEY: We became SCS certified in 2020 for using 100% post-consumer recycled gold and gemstones. Fine jewelry is naturally a more sustainable industry because gold and gems are precious, and nobody knowingly throws them away. It just takes a little extra effort to bring sustainability to the forefront.
I’m deeply fascinated by gemstones. They’re magical, formed by the earth over millions of years. I want to know everything about them—their origins, the mine, the miner—because that’s part of their story. When we don’t use post-consumer recycled stones, I source from fair-trade and responsibly sourced gem dealers.
In 2018, we launched Heirloom Revival to recycle and remake what you already own. I truly believe the largest diamond mine is sitting in our homes. It’s one of my favorite ways to collaborate with clients–it’s creative, unique, and always deeply personal. Whether it’s sentimental or cathartic, it’s a joy to transform old treasures into something new. The beauty of fine jewelry is that its materials are timeless–let’s dig them out and reimagine them so they can be worn and loved again.
F&E: Jewelry design is an art form, but it’s also a business. How do you balance the creative side of your work with the practical, entrepreneurial side?
CHELSEY: Not always very well! I have to be intentional about carving out time for creativity. It mostly happens at night, unless I’m working on a custom piece with a client during the day. I’m still working on creating a better schedule.
F&E: Do you have a personal ritual or creative process that helps you get into the zone when designing? What does your workspace look like when you’re in your element?
CHELSEY: I try not to force creativity. I always keep a sketchbook and pens on hand so I can jot down ideas whenever inspiration strikes. At night, I unwind by doodling repetitive patterns—sometimes, that leads to new designs.
My ideal creative space is typically outside on a cool summer day, soaking in the quiet sounds of nature and a little sunshine. But in reality, I just work with whatever I have!
Chelsey is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in White Casual Cotton, Montecito Pullover Sweater in White and our Wexford Wide-Leg Linen Pant in Cement.
CHELSEY: There are so many! It’s always an honor to create an engagement ring or wedding band, but we also get to be part of other deeply personal moments.
One that stands out is a mother who asked us to choose a gem for her ring that matched her baby girl’s hair color—a stunning, fiery red. Another was one of our very first pieces: a matching mother-daughter bracelet set. After the client’s mother passed, she wore both bracelets for a long time as a cherished reminder.
CHELSEY: There are so many! It’s always an honor to create an engagement ring or wedding band, but we also get to be part of other deeply personal moments.
One that stands out is a mother who asked us to choose a gem for her ring that matched her baby girl’s hair color—a stunning, fiery red. Another was one of our very first pieces: a matching mother-daughter bracelet set. After the client’s mother passed, she wore both bracelets for a long time as a cherished reminder.
CHELSEY: It’s hard not to say my engagement ring and wedding band, but I also wear a diamond necklace that my grandmother once wore as earrings. Before that, the diamonds belonged to my great-grandmother, who brought them from Lithuania in the early 1900s. That piece connects me to my family’s history in such a profound way.
And then there’s my daughter—she sometimes wears a little plastic heart necklace that I loved as a child. Seeing her wear it now makes it extra special.
CHELSEY: It’s hard not to say my engagement ring and wedding band, but I also wear a diamond necklace that my grandmother once wore as earrings. Before that, the diamonds belonged to my great-grandmother, who brought them from Lithuania in the early 1900s. That piece connects me to my family’s history in such a profound way.
And then there’s my daughter—she sometimes wears a little plastic heart necklace that I loved as a child. Seeing her wear it now makes it extra special.
Chelsey is photographed wearing our Montecito Pullover Sweater in White and our Wexford Wide-Leg Linen Pant in Cement.
F&E: How would you describe your personal style?
CHELSEY: Pretty simple. I’m always on the go, so it has to be easy and comfortable. I wear lots of neutrals—I love a monochromatic look. And at least once a week, you’ll find me in a Frank & Eileen denim or white button-up!
F&E: What’s next for Starling Jewelry? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re especially excited about?
CHELSEY: I just got back from the Tucson Gem Show, so I’m buzzing with excitement about new one-of-a-kind pieces and gems! I also sourced stones for some truly special projects.
We have a few exciting collaborations in the works, including an object/jewelry piece—our first ever—and three one-of-a-kind designs that will be converted into pins!
Thanks for cozying up for 'a cuppa with' Chelsey!
To keep up with Chelsey and the latest from Starling Jewelry:
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