Susan Nelson, a higher education professional from Wisconsin, discovered the SKJ brand in 2011 at Mill Mercantile in San Francisco. She appreciates the quality, thoughtfulness, and unified yet diverse line of SKJ jewelry, particularly the stacking rings. Susan values the brand's unique stones and textured metals, which enhance her casual style. She describes her relationship with SKJ as loyal admiration, emphasizing the emotional connection and the beauty SKJ jewelry brings to her daily life.
“Sometimes I ask myself, 'Do I really need this?' and the answer is probably no—but these pieces bring so much beauty to my daily life. With a busy job and family, it’s comforting to have something beautiful that’s also part of the everyday."- Susan
How did you discover Satomi Kawakita Jewelry?
I discovered Satomi Kawakita Jewelry years ago when my children were small. My partner, who has a strong interest in men’s fashion and works in furniture design, introduced me to a store in San Francisco called Mill Mercantile. They carried Satomi Kawakita Jewelry, and that’s how I first found the brand. It was around 2011 or 2012.
What was it about Satomi Kawakita Jewelry that caught your attention?
I’ve always loved jewelry. It really appeals to me in many different styles but I also dress very casually. What I love about Satomi Kawakita's pieces is that they are not only beautiful but also of high quality. To me, as a consumer, her pieces felt thoughtful and unified, yet diverse. You don’t have to be dressed up to wear them; they’re incredibly versatile, which is something that really appealed to me.
Have there been any specific occasions when you returned to purchase more jewelry?
I tend to treat myself around the holidays, or sometimes for special occasions like anniversaries. For example, I recently celebrated my 20th wedding anniversary, and I thought it was a perfect moment for another piece.
What do you think sets Satomi Kawakita Jewelry apart from other brands?
The uniqueness of the stones and the texture of the metals really set the brand apart. I love the organic shapes, on top of that, the pieces are incredibly wearable. They have a beauty to them, but they’re also practical enough to wear every day.
Are there any specific products that stand out to you as unique?
I really love stacking rings. They’re one of the reasons I keep coming back to the brand. You can build different stacks with what you already have or add new pieces and they always go together. I like that the rings are beautiful but still practical. I tend to prefer pieces that are flatter and not too large, since I use my hands a lot, and SKJ offers the perfect balance of beauty and wearability.
How does wearing Satomi Kawakita Jewelry make you feel?
Wearing Satomi Kawakita jewelry makes me feel special. Sometimes, my partner will buy jewelry for me, which is lovely, but I really enjoy the act of treating myself to something beautiful.
How would you describe your relationship with Satomi Kawakita Jewelry as a returning customer?
I would describe myself as a "loyal admirer." Over the years, I’ve returned to the brand because I truly value what it represents and the quality of the pieces.
Do you have a favorite piece? If so, why?
If I had to choose a favorite, it would be my band rings, especially stacked bands. I’ve always liked them, and my favorite stack right now includes two rings—one with a textured metal and the other with stones. I love the practicality of rings like these. They’re not bulky and are perfect for everyday wear. I can use my hands freely while still wearing something meaningful.
Is there anything you'd like to say to Satomi or the brand?
I’ve often asked myself if purchasing jewelry is frivolous, but Satomi Kawakita’s pieces bring so much beauty into my life. My job is busy, and my family life is busy, so it’s comforting to have these little reminders of beauty with me that’s part of my everyday life.