Solid & Refined started in a small jewelry store in Peru.

In 2023, I traveled to reconnect with family who have over 30 years in the jewelry business. Watching my aunt work behind the counter, I saw firsthand that quality is the result of hard work. She taught me that in a crowded market, loyal customers stay for one reason: Trust. In this business, trust is valuable.

While I was there, a silver and leather bracelet caught my eye, but the fit was off. My aunt measured my wrist, resized the leather, and showed me exactly how to make it right. That moment planted a seed. I came back to Chicago and began experimenting with materials, applying my background as a machinist to create a bracelet that looks solid.

As a machinist with years of experience, I know how to work within tight tolerances and turn raw material into a finished part. But even with that background, I faced months of setbacks.

I spent months testing different leathers, adhesives, and clasps searching for the right components to make one complete, quality piece. It was a struggle to find materials that didn't just look good, but could actually hold together. The biggest complaint I saw with other brands was always the same: The clasp falls off. I knew if I was going to put my name on this, I had to fix that problem.

The work didn't stop with the bracelets. I didn’t know that building a website and a brand would come with as many setbacks as the product itself. Between life and the learning curve of a new trade, it took everything I had to finally get this out there. This is the short version of the story, but God willing, it continues.

I value the product because I know the work that went into it. When it’s made right, the whole piece feels right. Buy one and see the difference for yourself. You’ll see the quality the moment it’s in your hand.