Loree Rodkin is a visionary American jeweler, designer, and entrepreneur who has defined a style all her own. Her work seamlessly blends Gothic motifs with Art Nouveau elegance. Rodkin’s creations have adorned global icons like Michelle Obama, Elizabeth Taylor, and Barbra Streisand. Known for her bold experiments with gemstones, symbolism, and precious metals, her name has become a synonym for luxury and originality in the world of fine jewelry. Read more on ichicago.
Biography
Loree Rodkin grew up in Chicago, Illinois, in a Jewish family. Surrounded by music and art as a child, her worldview was shaped early on. Rodkin often notes that music, even more than her hometown, truly forged her identity. From a young age, Loree was captivated by jewelry. While her mother gifted her pieces every year for her birthday, the young girl dreamed of something more—the chance to bring her own designs to life.
She eventually moved to Los Angeles, where she launched a career in interior design, working on the homes of rock royalty like Alice Cooper, Rod Stewart, and her then-fiancé, Bernie Taupin. Rodkin later transitioned into talent management, overseeing the early careers of Hollywood heavyweights like Brad Pitt and Robert Downey Jr. Her first steps into jewelry making came from an unexpected gift. While designing Stewart’s home, he gave her a vintage Cartier ring that needed repair. Cartier directed her to a workshop in Beverly Hills, where the owners eventually allowed her to apprentice and hone her craft.
Her personal life has been just as star-studded as her career, including high-profile romances with actor Richard Gere and musician Don Henley.
A Career Carved in Gold
During her time as an interior designer, Rodkin frequently scouted and restored vintage jewelry. This passion evolved into her own design studio and the launch of the Loree Rodkin Gothic collection. Her early clientele included Elizabeth Taylor and Barbra Streisand, and her pieces were famously sold at the legendary Maxfield boutique in West Hollywood.
Rodkin’s most iconic creation is arguably the “bondage ring,” which resembles medieval finger armor. Her work often features crosses, intricate symbolism, and hand-engravings, blending gold, platinum, and precious stones into a signature modern-medieval aesthetic.
The collection reached a new level of global fame thanks to Michelle Obama. At the 2009 Inaugural Ball, the First Lady wore Rodkin’s 61-carat celestial earrings, a 13-carat cocktail ring, and diamond bangles. These historic pieces are now part of the permanent collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
Defining an Aesthetic
Loree Rodkin draws inspiration from architecture, nature, and the intricate details of the world around her. She views herself as an artist working across multiple “mediums,” including jewelry, accessories, interiors, and fragrances. Famous examples of her work include the Baby Baguette Bondage Ring, the Skull ID Bracelet, and the Loree Armor Ombre Ring—each reflecting a unique fusion of geometry and edge. Her style is defined by bold experimentation with forms and materials, making her jewelry instantly recognizable and highly coveted worldwide.
Among those who inspire Loree, singer and actress Cher holds a special place. A close friend of Rodkin, Cher’s success across three different artistic fields mirrors Loree’s own drive. These examples of strong and successful women are the cornerstone of Rodkin’s philosophy and mission.
Rodkin’s influence extends far beyond jewelry. Her flagship store is located in Tokyo, Japan, and her designs are sold in high-end retailers globally. Her client list reads like a “Who’s Who” of entertainment, featuring Elton John, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Madonna, Daphne Guinness, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, and Steven Tyler.
Her creative empire also includes perfumes, candles, body care, and eyewear. In 2014, she collaborated with French designer Michèle Lamy to launch the Hunrod jewelry line, and in 2016, she partnered with Kilian Hennessy to debut a niche fragrance line under the By Kilian brand.
Beyond her design work, Rodkin played a key role in the 2008 renovation of a famous Beverly Hills bar for concert promoter Andrew Hewitt. Her unique aesthetic vision helped create a space with a distinct Mediterranean-tropical vibe that remains a draw for both locals and international visitors.
Today, this remarkable woman resides in Los Angeles, continuing to grow her brand while remaining one of the most influential figures in the jewelry world. Loree Rodkin is a prime example of how talent, grit, and a desire to give back can lead to global success. Her story proves that the intersection of creativity and philanthropy has the power to transform not just individual lives, but entire communities.