K. Brunini

Global education inspires local jewelry designer

Posted on April 25, 2019

Solana Beach resident Katey Brunini is literally all over the map — traveling the world non-stop to show off her collection of wearable art, exquisite jewelry that combines the raw and refined. For example, she says, “I like to pair wood with diamonds,” which brings up a provocative question: “Which is more precious,” she asks, “the tree or a rock?”

Brunini graduated from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Art History, later studying in London and at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in Carlsbad, and apprenticing with master goldsmiths in Sicily. Before starting her eponymous company, K. Brunini, she was the custom designer for Jessop’s Jewelers.

Brunini’s work is informed by her extensive travels. It was a trip to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo that solidified her desire to work in jewelry, which she realized was “a durable art form of expression” passed down over thousands of years. “Jewelry and gemstones are my paint brushes,” she reflects. “But that’s not how I see it. I make wearable art. Art is a conversation, it’s a contemplation, it’s a reflection. It’s not about big bling. It’s about what’s meaningful.”

Often honored for her art, which has been displayed in museums around the country, Brunini’s collection is available at Neiman Marcus stores nationwide and at Neiman Marcus Fashion Valley by special order. 858.259.8779, kbrunini.com   Andrea Naversen