Unlike many other jewelers, Kimberlin isn't the type to toot her own horn. In fact, everything about her – from her designs right down to her looks – signifies a very humble, happy-go-lucky girl who loves nature. And we're not talking about any love of nature – we're talking big time traveler who uses the rolling hills of Tuscany and the bubbling springs of Iceland as inspiration for her drop dead gorgeous jewelry collections.

SL: What are your first memories of jewelry design; when you knew that this was it for you?

KB: My first memories of jewelry design had nothing to do with jewelry. I have always been one to look at the detail and intricacies of attractive and interesting objects. Growing up I had a 'Sherlock Holmes magnifying glass' sensibility. When exploring nature I would get right down to the ground, and put my nose in the grass. I also spent a lot of time translating what I saw into detailed drawing. Ultimately this was the genesis of the design process that is second nature to me today.

SL: Your jewelry almost looks like something you might unearth when excavating a medieval site.They have a very worn, comforting quality about them. What inspired you to style your jewelry this way?

KB: I have always been drawn to antiquities. As a young girl I was a bit obsessed with Egyptian art. After I finished my BFA in sculpture and fine art I became focused on jewelry making. I took a trip to Denmark and saw the royal collection of antique crowns. It was almost an epiphany. They looked like they had seen it all and had secrets waiting to be uncovered. I decided I wanted my jewelry to look and feel the same way. I hope that my jewelry looks like it has lived. Handmade jewelry must look unique and imperfect.

SL: You source stones from around the world. Are you a travel junky? If so, where have you been and how do your travels tie in with your collection?

KB: Absolutely!! I have been fortunate to have explored so many wonderful places and beautiful cultures. Tuscany had a huge impact on my collections. The rolling hills and open fields were such an inspiration. I made beautiful pieces based on the wild poppies and thorny branches. Last year I went to Iceland and it was wild! It was the closest thing to being on another planet while still on Earth. Lava rocks, bubbling hot natural springs and beautiful people -- truly a unique place. I have started a collection based on my memories from that experience using cool color gems like moonstone, diamonds and pale blue sapphire; lava rocks cast in silver and twigs from the Downy Birch. So you can see that traveling is an integral part of my work.

SL: Which celebrity's style do you admire?

KB: Cate Blanchett really came onto my style radar years ago when she wore a gorgeous necklace that cascaded down her back and provided the all-important element of surprise. I also have a soft spot for Whoopi's eclectic style and I am proud to say she recently commissioned one of my Pussy Willow bangles with Tahitian pearls.

I love the way Jackie O. wore pearls. Anyone can wear diamonds but pearls require someone with a real classic sense of style. So I watch with fascination at our current first lady and how a simple strand of pearls on her becomes an elegant statement.

SL: What is on the horizon for your business?

KB: I have a number of retailers around the world and a growing clientele of private collectors. I am always experimenting with new shapes and designs and I have to tell you that I am happiest making jewelry at my workbench.

See Kimberlin's collection at Kimberlin Brown Jewelry, her silver work at Seeking Designers or at Catbird online.