Each necklace begins as a sketch, a color, a stone that stopped us in our tracks — and becomes a one-of-a-kind piece.
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 — and results in pieces meant not to be admired from a distance, but worn.
That reverence has deep roots. Tippy was raised in Charleston, South Carolina after moving there from Alexandria, Virginia at a young age, and it was there she later owned and curated a contemporary art gallery, representing nationally and internationally recognized artists. The work deepened her respect for exceptional craftsmanship and sharpened her eye for objects that carry both artistic intention and personal meaning — an instinct that would eventually lead her away from the gallery walls and into jewelry itself, with designs rooted in a painter's sensibility and constructed with the precision of fine metalsmithing.
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 — a duality that shows up in every piece she makes, built for real, everyday life.
Our Story
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. Before leaving the studio, each necklace is checked for comfort and durability, then finished with Tippy's signature gold canoe hallmark — a solid-14K mark of authenticity.
Our Process
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
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.
