Kara Ross

WanderLush

Crafting travel inspired beauty

BY STEPHANIE CAJUCOM

Fifteen year old me could’ve been found rallying at the local football game or finding ways to rebel against the system but not Kara Ross. After a life changing trip to Africa, she jumpstarted her career in gemology and jewelry design in her young teen years.

Mystified by the splendors of the continent during this particular family vacation, her parents let her pick out some souvenirs to take home. Her choice – two emerald cut green tourmaline gemstones. They flew back to Philly as Kara admired her choice picks and her mother let her turn those gems into jewelry as soon as they got home. Involved in every step of the creation, she instantly fell in love with the process, and right there she knew she was fated to be a jewelry designer.

Today she’s still inspired by travel. “It opens a world of creativity because it exposes me to new and beautiful places and ideas.” And this becomes clear in her pieces. Kara mixes eclectic structures with poised gemstones, bold in color and cut. She takes time, precision and her discerning eye to mix elements to create collections that tell stories of other lands.

Like her latest designs that take us back to prehistoric Earth, with a collection devoted to the inspirations of Pangea. It’s because she’s not just a gemologist or a designer. “Great jewelry is undeniably an art form” says Kara, and she is truly an artist creating masterpieces to stand the test of time.

“Great jewelry is undeniably an art form.”

Outside jewelry designing, how do you balance your work, life and motherhood?

It’s vital to remain connected with my family, no matter how. Even when my daughters are away at school, we remain connected – these days we spend a lot of time on Instagram. Happily, sometimes my worlds overlap – during my daughter Avery’s Spring Break this year, she modeled for my new brand campaign!

What are some of the struggles or challenges that you face as a designer?

The big brands have such astronomical marketing budgets for their advertising campaigns, special events and celebrity dressing. Nevertheless, I believe in a more organic approach anyway.

According to you, what makes your jewelry line stand out from the rest?

My jewels are primarily bought by women for themselves – they are not generic, classic baubles, but instead distinctive, gutsy and fun!

Who is the woman behind Kara Ross New York?

I am a certified gemologist, and have a strong passion for gemstones in both their raw and polished forms – this love fuels my designs and my business. I am also extremely devoted to my family, and am constantly and happily immersed in my business and surrounded by family.

You are a gemologist as well as a jeweler. What sparked this affection towards gemstones?

The trip to Africa was the beginning; later when I decided to pursue my gemology degree at the GIA, it cemented (no pun intended) my infatuation!

You mix materials, and create new ones. In your own words, lead us through the process of choosing new materials and incorporating them into your designs?

I love to juxtapose unexpected things: for example a raw, unpolished rubellite side by side with a smooth, faceted amethyst; volcanic lava set with 18kt gold and diamonds; marble wood with sterling silver and black sapphires. It creates multiple layers, and an aesthetic surprise that is unforgettable.

The beauty of design is that it can mean something different to each one of us. What advice do you have for women out there in fashion?

Wear your jewelry! I don’t understand people who “save” their jewelry for special occasions. Every day is special, and jewelry is meant to be worn, not to collect dust inside a drawer!

Who is the person that influences you the most?

My daughters’ energy, curiosity and love of life certainly drive me. My mother was also a huge influence: throughout my childhood and adolescence she never let up about how important it is to be true to yourself, and how essential it is to persevere.

When you want to take a break, where is your favorite destination to disconnect and relax?

I love to get away to our house in Southampton for long, family and sun-filled weekends during the summer. This is where I can step back, take a deep breath and read something to take my mind off the stress.

Who is the person that influences you the most?

5 things unique about you? Or 5 things we didn't know about you?

My daughters and I are obsessed with cute photos of animals we find on the internet – puppies and kittens in teacups, that sort of thing.
I once played Maria von Trapp in the Sound of Music!
My two sisters were All American Field Hockey players; I was also an avid field hockey player, and was recruited to play in college.
I am addicted to shopping for vintage clothes, accessories, and jewelry.
I collect cookie jars – but I don’t necessarily fill them with cookies.