Susan's Story
The Beginning
An Artist’s Path in Gold and Gemstone
Born in the City of the Angels in 1951, Susan’s career path began in 1970 while studying Fine Art and Metalsmithing at Cerritos College in Southern California. During an apprenticeship at the Compton Rock Shop, she expanded her skills in lapidary arts, metalsmithing and sales. 1974 brought Susan an opportunity to study under Master Clemente Urrutia where she received eight years of formal training in gold fabrication, gemstone setting and tool makıng.
Moving to Colorado in 1980, Susan co-founded Kostbar International, a wholesale gem-importing and jewelry design business. Her avant-garde designs soon attracted both national and international attention and in 1989 she was invited to exhibit at the JA “New Designer” Pavilion in New York and the Pacific Show in Beverly Hills. These opportunities officially launched the Susan Helmich brand to the U.S and International jewelry markets. Through recognition and awards in the following years, she defined a new movement in creative and artistic design within the industry.
Recognition
Awards, Exhibitions & Honors
Her work has earned numerous accolades, including receiving the title “American Designer of the Year” in 1991. The MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths of America) sponsored Susan as the U.S. guest exhibitor at Macef Fair in Milan, Italy. There, she was recognized for her visionary designs and exceptional craftsmanship. She was an award recipient for four consecutive years at the Japan International Pearl Design Competition. 1992 brought Susan an invitation to exhibit at the prestigious Munsteiner Atelier in Stipshausen, Germany. In 1996, the WJA (Women’s Jewelry Association) recognized Susan with the “Design Excellence Award” in New York City. In 2006 Susan was recognized as one of the “Top 100 Designers of the Past 30 Years” by National Jeweler Magazine. Since that time, she has been an honored recipient of numerous AGTA “Spectrum Awards” (American Gem Trade Association).
The Smithsonian Institute acquired “Midnight Dreamscape” for permanent display in 2015. This unique gold and Intarsia brooch was part of a larger collection created in the 1990’s. Many more of Susan’s original creations are on display at the Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum in Tucson, Arizona.
Philosophy
A Living Practice
Susan has been a long- standing member of the AJDC (American Jewelry Design Council), joining in 1990 and serving as president from 2000 to 2003. Additionally, she is honored to be a commissioned artist producing museum designs for “Somewhere in the Rainbow,” a philanthropic and educational organization.
After 50 years in the industry, Susan continues to create bespoke designs, limited-edition collections, and sculptures. Labeling herself a “translator” Susan is known for blending organic elements with an artistic vision offering universal appeal and timeless beauty. She currently divides her time between Colorado Springs and Scottsdale, Arizona.
