With every piece I make I think about what each design says about my work—I sit to reflect and think. How does this one piece exist within the DNA of my work?

I use the four C's as a purchasing tool and not the decision-maker as to what diamonds I use. Sometimes a smaller diamond will outshine any other stone in a room or simply be better suited for a project. It is not all about size.

Art is the baby of decision making or the lack thereof. It is a representation of ideas and ideals. Of beauty and desire for something transcendental; an experience. A love affair with the beautiful—the opportunity to make something that will stop time and make us dream about the future.

My biggest hope coming back is to add to the creative energy of the city and to join the other creative geniuses; to inspire others to take their creative sides seriously—especially when it is something that inspires and raises the spirit of those around you.

I was surrounded by people who cared and wanted to see me succeed in whatever I was working on. I’d get feedback right away or pointers or praise. I could ask for help if I needed and this informal education is what truly helped my work advance.

So much is uncertain in a creative career; yes. But so is everything else. Risk is part of every equation, some risks we choose to magnify more than others. What is worse than risk for me is the idea of postponing dreams and goals for later.

I've found we often overlook our capacity to create. We are quick to assume that our ideas are not unique and that others are already thinking the same thing that we are thinking.