One of Kara Ross’s fondest memories of her childhood is a safari to Africa with her parents at the age of thirteen. To commemorate the trip, Kara’s parents allowed her to choose a native gemstone of her choice. When they returned to their home, Kara was told she could design and create a ring with the tourmaline she chose.

After a trip to “Jeweler’s Row” in downtown Philadelphia, Kara decided to create a square cut ring on an 18 karat gold band with diamonds. “To know that I could create something wholly original at a young age really affected me.” It was a concept that would guide her vision as a designer. After graduating from Georgetown University and a brief stint in advertising at Harper’s Bazaar, Kara became a certified gemologist.

For many years, she used diamonds, pearls, and 18k gold to create one-of-a-kind custom pieces for private clients. Her most famous private client to date is President Obama and the First Lady.