Our Story
Tippy Stern Fine Art Jewelry was born from a lifelong devotion to beauty, craftsmanship, and the quiet joy of discovery. Every necklace is conceived and hand-strung by artist and designer Tippy Stern, whose work reflects the same reverence for color and creativity that shaped her career in contemporary art.
Tippy was raised in Charleston, South Carolina after moving there from Alexandria, Virginia at a young age. Years later, she and her husband built a home in the Bridger Mountains near Bozeman, Montana, where the open skies, rugged quiet, and changing seasons now inspire her daily. She divides her time between Charleston and Montana, finding a balance between the Lowcountry’s history and the wild tranquility of the West.
Before turning to jewelry, Tippy owned and curated a contemporary art gallery in downtown Charleston, representing nationally and internationally recognized artists. Her gallery work deepened her respect for exceptional craftsmanship and sharpened her eye for objects that carry both artistic intention and personal meaning. That passion ultimately led her to create wearable works of art—designs rooted in a painter’s sensibility and constructed with the precision of fine metalsmithing.
Working with precious and semi-precious gemstones, paired with 14- and 18-karat gold findings, charms, and fittings, Tippy creates one-of-a-kind necklaces that elevate the natural qualities of each stone. Every piece is meticulously hand-strung, a quiet, deliberate process that honors the individuality of each element. Her signature gold canoe hallmark, created in collaboration with Mini Avant of Croghan’s Jewel Box, reflects another deeply personal passion: time spent canoeing and celebrating the simple adventure of being outdoors.
Charleston Legacy
Long before the first necklace publicly debuted, Tippy’s work was already finding its way into the world. Friends admired the pieces she created—then purchased them—and soon they were requesting custom designs. Their encouragement led her to take the next step and seek guidance from people who truly understood fine craftsmanship.
For more than fifty years, Tippy’s family has shared a valued friendship with the family of Croghan’s Jewel Box, Charleston’s oldest and most esteemed jewelry store. When Tippy brought her collection to them, they recognized the intention behind her work immediately. Their encouragement was instrumental; they selected pieces for their store right away, marking one of the most meaningful moments in Tippy’s journey.
Having her jewelry represented by Croghan’s remains a profound honor. Their trust, shared standards of artistry, and genuine belief in her vision continue to inspire everything she creates.
Celebration of Individuality
Every necklace that bears the Tippy Stern hallmark is a celebration of color, form, and craftsmanship. No two are alike. Each one tells its own story through the stones chosen, the way they meet the gold, and how they feel when worn.
Tippy’s work is designed for those who value individuality and beauty in its most authentic, handcrafted form. Her intention is simple yet enduring: to bring joy to the person who wears each piece, and to create jewelry that carries meaning—today and for generations.
