Krista Lavonas Designs: Handmade Jewelry for a Cause
Sterling silver jewelry made by hand
Krista Lavonas is a semi-retired pediatrician and a working metalsmith in Colorado. She received a metalsmithing class a s a Mother’s Day gift several years ago, and kept taking classes. After her friends and family asked to buy her jewelry, she started Krista Lavonas Designs in November 2019. She hand fabricates sterling silver jewelry in her studio in northeast Denver and loves to create one-of-a-kind pieces with bright colors and bold textures. She often takes inspiration from the time she spends outdoors, both in Colorado and also when traveling. She donates 5% of each sale to a local non profit serving Denver families. Current donations are going to Judi’s House, a non-profit in Aurora, CO that provides grief care to children and their families in the Denver metro area at no cost as well as community education and professional education to help contribute to a more grief-informed society.
Contained—a solo gallery show at Nkollectiv gallery
I have been working on a collection of lockets and boxes throughout the summer in preparation for this solo show at Nkollectiv gallery at 960 Santa Fe Blvd in Denver. The opening reception is on October 18 from 5:30-8:30PM—all are welcome. The show will run through November 10. If you can’t visit in person, pieces will be available online through the link to the gallery below.
Upcoming in-person events
Contained—Solo show at Nkollective Gallery—Oct 18-November 10, 2024, 960 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO. Opening reception 5:30-8:30 on Friday, Octover 18.
Vibe Holiday Market—November 9-10, 11AM-5PM, The Arch, 3001 Walnut Street, Denver
Holiday Pop-Up at Easel—12/7/24, 11AM-6PM, 3485 S. Broadway, Englewood, **please be advised access by stairs only—no elevator**
Holiday Pop-Up at Easel—12/14/24, 11AM-6PM, 3485 S. Broadway, Englewood, **please be advised access by stairs only—no elevator**
Stockists
Colorado
NKollectiv, Santa Fe Arts District, Denver, CO
Reviews:
“I love wearing this beautiful piece of art. The design and craftsmanship are first-rate. Krista never disappoints!” January 8, 2024
“This pendant is absolutely beautiful. It exceeded my expectations. Krista packed it well, shipped it fast, and was so communicative with me when I had questions. It was a delight finding her work on Etsy.” December 8, 2023
“As with all of Krista’s pieces, this necklace is gorgeous and beautifully crafted. Krista was also super quick (and kind) with answering my questions.” March 16, 2023
“Above and beyond customer service, and as someone in the gem industry, I can confirm Krista is sourcing her stones from the most respected folks in the industry. It’s how I found her in the first place! Definitely not my last purchase from this designer.” Dec. 21, 2020
“The ring is so much more beautiful in person! Beautifully chosen stone and gorgeously crafted setting. I stare at this little masterpiece of a landscape all the time, and it’s so beautiful and calming. Shipped lightning fast too. I am in love. Thank you to this talented and kind maker! Will be back!” Aug 8, 2021
“Meticulously crafted—like all of Krista’s designs. So happy I was able to snag this one. Thanks so much!” Jan. 13, 2022”
“Oh my goodness, this is a show stopper!! My heart sang when I opened the package. A glorious piece, bravo!!!!” Feb. 16, 2022
“Absolutely gorgeous! I have been looking for a dendritic agate ring for a while now and this done is perfect! I’m so happy some of the proceeds went to a worthwhile organization as well :-)” April 26, 2022
Care of your jewelry
If you have purchased from KLD, you have received a piece of jewelry that I hope will be with you for a very long time; perhaps even to be passed down to other members of your family. Chemicals can damage metals, change the finish, or damage stones. Avoid wearing your jewelry while bathing or swimming. Apply perfumes, makeup, or lotions to your skin prior to putting on your jewelry.
If you jewelry becomes soiled, I recommend cleaning it with mild soap and warm water and a scrubbing with a soft cloth or brush. You will receive a polishing cloth with your purchase to remove tarnish. It can also remove patina, so be gentle!
Avoid using silver polish on pieces that have had patina applied, or pieces with soft stones such as turquoise, opals, or pearls. Silver polish will damage these stones and will remove patina entirely.
Many of the pieces I make have dark patina. These are usually sealed with Renaissance Wax to help the patina last longer, but it will wear eventually in areas with high friction. Many people enjoy this look. To maintain your patina, avoid polishing your pieces; you can use your polishing to cloth VERY GENTLY to restore sheen if needed. I am glad to refresh your patina if needed in the future if you are willing to pay 2 way shipping.
For pieces made solely of brass, if you wish to revive a bright, shiny finish, you can clean them a couple of ways. Both involve ingredients you probably have at home. For the first method, combine 1 tsp. of salt with 1/2 cup of vinegar; add flour until you have a paste. Rub onto the brass and leave for 30-60 seconds and rinse. Repeat until you return to the finish you desire. The second method is coating your piece in ketchup—leave on for 30-60 seconds and rinse. Repeat until your brass is bright and shiny again.
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Contact Us
Feel free to reach out and email with any questions or follow along on Facebook or Instragram.
Email me at krista@kristalavonasdesigns.com
Links to Facebook, Instagram, Etsy store, and email below:
© 2021 Krista Lavonas Designs
