About Marilyn Brogan Jewelry
I create jewelry with intention—pieces that are meant to be worn, loved, and passed down. Inspired by history yet designed for today, my work blends old-world craftsmanship with a modern sensibility. Every design is carefully considered, made with materials that hold meaning, and built to last for generations.
A Journey to the Gulf
I’ve always been drawn to places where nature shapes the rhythm of life. Growing up in the mountains of Virginia, I found comfort in wide-open spaces and quiet moments outdoors. That pull led me through cities and across coasts—from Asheville to Tallahassee and San Diego—until I found my home in Apalachicola, Florida.
This town has a special energy. It’s a place where people know their neighbors, where traditions run deep, and where life slows down just enough to appreciate the details. Whether it’s a Mardi Gras parade where even the dogs wear costumes, a backyard feast of freshly caught shrimp, or the way people insist on bringing a dish to every gathering, Apalachicola has a way of making you feel connected. That sense of connection—between people, places, and moments—is the foundation of my work.
Jewelry That Honors the Past & Belongs to the Present
I’ve always been drawn to heirloom jewelry—the kind of pieces that tell a story, that feel like they’ve been cherished for decades. Some of my designs lean into that history, like my Mediterranean red coral pieces, which hold an old-world elegance. Others, like my Parenthetical solitaires, offer a contemporary take on classic forms.
No matter the style, my philosophy remains the same: jewelry should be both beautiful and effortless. I design with balance in mind—between past and present, artistry and wearability, tradition and modern life. A piece should feel natural, like it belongs to you from the moment you put it on. Whether it’s a ring that fits like it was made just for you, a necklace that becomes part of your daily ritual, or a one-of-a-kind piece that gains meaning with time, my goal is to create jewelry that connects—to history, to craftsmanship, and to the stories we tell through the things we treasure.
A Love for Gold & Color
There’s something about 18K gold—its warmth, its richness, the way it catches the light. It’s luminous yet understated, soft enough to shape yet strong enough to last for generations. I love working with it not just for its beauty, but for its durability and the way it ages so gracefully. It’s a material that’s meant to be lived in, growing even more meaningful over time.
Then there’s color—vibrant gemstones, luminous pearls, the unmistakable fiery red of Mediterranean coral. These elements bring energy and personality to my work. A single stone can shape an entire design, guiding the process until the piece feels complete. To me, color isn’t just decorative—it’s expressive, adding depth and character to jewelry that’s meant to be worn and treasured.
The Art of Making
Jewelry-making is both a craft and a process of discovery. Some days, I start with a detailed sketch. Other times, an idea takes shape as I work with the materials, letting them lead me where they want to go. I especially love making chain—it’s a rhythmic, meditative process that turns individual links into something fluid and whole.
Over the years, I’ve learned that great jewelry-making isn’t about doing everything myself—it’s about collaboration. I work with incredibly skilled casters and stone setters who help bring my vision to life with the same level of care and craftsmanship I put into every design.
Jewelry with a Conscience
Sustainability is at the heart of my work. Every decision—from the materials I source to the vendors I collaborate with—is made with intention. I prioritize reclaimed and antique diamonds, ethically sourced gemstones, and responsible gold options whenever possible, ensuring that each piece is as meaningful as the materials it’s made from.
Jewelry should be timeless in both design and impact. While sustainability in the industry is ever-evolving, I focus on progress, not perfection, making thoughtful choices that support transparency and ethical practices.
To learn more about my approach to sustainability, click below.
Designed to Be Treasured
I strive to create pieces that feel just as special as the people who wear them—jewelry that carries meaning, history, and a sense of permanence. Jewelry isn’t just about adornment—it’s about connection. To history, to craftsmanship, to the stories we tell through the things we treasure. And I’m honored to be a part of that story.