Today we’re sitting down with our Founder, Catherine Cason to chat about her journey with Gem Breakfast – how it all started, her favourite jewelry styles, how she finds those one-of-a-kind designs, and her advice for new female entrepreneurs!
Where did you grow up and go to school?
I grew up in Marin County. We moved around a lot, but eventually landed back in the Bay Area when I was 8. I went to University in Los Angeles for Political Science and then moved back to San Francisco where I live now!
Were you always a jewelry lover? How did it start?
I used to live near this gorgeous jewelry store in the Marina (in San Francisco). The woman who worked there was always completely iced-out, just drowning in jewels. She would humor me while I tried on every piece in the store.
Then, once I received my engagement ring, I was completely hooked. Mesmerized by the diamond (it’s an Asscher cut), I disappeared down a deep online research hole learning about the cut, the setting, and everything about fine jewelry. I started coming across all these insanely talented indie designers on Instagram and finding unique pieces I never even knew existed.
At that point, there was no turning back – I was fully obsessed.