United States
After graduating high school, I spent nearly four years working along the Mississippi River, fumigating grain facilities, cargo ships, and barges—often on call 24/7. My work took me from Port Allen to Davant, surrounded by seasoned men and women whose dedication instilled in me a strong work ethic, discipline, and patience. During my time on the river, I began pursuing my passion for jewelry, enrolling in courses with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) toward my Graduate Gemologist certification, while also studying jewelry making in college. I later transitioned into a creative role as an artist at Renaissance Interiors, where I worked extensively on antiques from the late 1800s through the 20th century, specializing in refinishing, waxing, and custom painting. This experience deepened my appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry. For the past three years, I have built my career in the jewelry industry. I am currently a Diamond Grading Expert and Applied Jewelry Professional through GIA, and I serve as Treasurer on the Board of the Jewelers of Louisiana. I am continuing my studies toward my Graduate Gemologist certification and am passionate about creating meaningful, memorable moments for clients in my role at Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry.