Sterling Silver and Swarovski Crystal Aqua Blue & Red Hoop Earrings handcrafted by designer Karen Curtis

Everything begins with color — intentionally. I trained as a colorist and designed scarves for Halston, which is what drew me to Swarovski® as my medium. I studied fashion design in Italy, and that sensibility runs through every piece. Even a piece in one color is never flat: I layer highs, lows, and accent tones, mixing shapes and sizes to create dimension and depth. Combined with 25 years of working with rare, irreplaceable crystals — that's what makes a Karen Curtis piece genuinely unlike anything else.

Over the years I built a private inventory of discontinued Swarovski® crystals — cuts, colors, and finishes no longer in production, some dating back to the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. These were sourced as new-old-stock directly from suppliers, not reclaimed from old jewelry. I mix these vintage and antique crystals with pre-2019 modern Swarovski® to create pieces with a luster and character you simply can't replicate today.

It depends on the piece. Statement designs and anything featuring a specific rare crystal are genuinely finite — once those crystals are gone, that design cannot be recreated. Some signature staple styles continue as long as my crystal inventory allows. Either way, if something catches your eye, I always recommend not waiting.

Yes — all Karen Curtis jewelry is nickel free. Depending on the piece I use 14k gold-filled or sterling silver.

Sterling silver is a precious metal renowned for durability and timeless appeal — with proper care it can last indefinitely, which is why it's the choice for heirloom pieces.

14k gold-filled is not gold-plated. It's constructed by mechanically bonding a substantial layer of 14k gold directly to a base metal core — far thicker and more durable than plating, and far more resistant to tarnishing. Both are a meaningful step above the base metals used in most fashion jewelry.

21-day return and exchange window. If something isn't exactly right, reach out and we'll take care of it. See the full returns policy for details on condition and shipping.

Always. My jewelry is built to last — I have clients wearing pieces they've had for over 25 years. If something ever needs a repair, an extender, or any attention at all, reach out directly. I will always take care of you. A small fee may apply for materials and return shipping depending on what's needed.

Yes — proudly. Karen Curtis NYC is an independent, solo woman-owned business founded in June 2000. Every piece is designed and made by my hands, shipped from my New York City studio, and backed by my personal promise. When you shop here, you're supporting one person and her craft directly.