FORGE Jewelry Works

Jewelry Works is a dream we’ve had for a long time. This is a place where we create, where we forge unique pieces of jewelry for people to cherish. Most everything we create is inspired by our guests. We work closely with each guest in the creative process to help them realize their dream. Our goal is to take their ideas and turn them into a beautiful piece of jewelry that can be treasured, not only through their life, but for generations to come. We feel every person and every relationship is unique and so should the jewelry they wear. We believe in love. We believe we help create symbols of love and treat every piece with care and the utmost importance.  All staff members received their training from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and excel in their knowledge and abilities.

We have a GIA Graduate Gemologist on staff who oversees all gemstone purchasing, grading and appraisals. Combined, we have over 65 years of experience in the industry to help our guests have a wonderful and special buying experience.  As certified members of the Jewelers of America, we show our commitment to responsibility and patriotism. We ensure all of the materials we use comes from legitimate, conflict free sources (we follow the Kimberly Process) and support businesses located in the USA whenever possible. We also utilize recycling and reclaimed materials when possible.  We have fun creating beautiful designs with our guests. It’s amazing the relationships and friendships that are formed with the people we have helped. Many show their appreciation by referring their family and friends to us so they can have the same great experience.  Creating unique jewelry pieces for each guest is not only our job, it is our passion

Shawn Mikkelson: Founder and CEO  Working in the Jewelry Trade for almost 20 years for one of the top jewelers in Utah, Shawn has learned the ropes of what it takes to succeed in a multi-billion dollar industry. Experience is key.   As one of only a handful of Graduate Gemologists in Utah, he has achieved the highest possible educational background in the field of gemology through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) located in Carlsbad, CA. This credential is recognized worldwide and has added to his expertise. He also attended UVCC (now UVU) studying drafting and design.   Utilizing technology advances and seeing the future market of bridal customers, Shawn has crafted a unique concept that will revolutionize the way jewelry is created, bought, and sold. Realizing people want their own design rather than being “sold” an existing one. This concept is catering to that desire. Shawn is excited to realize his dream of owning and running his own jewelry company, FORGE Jewelry Works

Rischelle Mikkelson: Co-Founder and CFO   Rischelle is a successful business owner and entrepreneur. She has 16 years experience in developing, running, and growing her businesses. She is a founder of Renaissance Academy, and is currently the Owner and Operator  of REDeMED, a medical billing and business service company.   As founder and board member of Renaissance Academy, Rischelle was director over finance, human resources, and facilities. Renaissance is a million dollar non-profit company. While Rischelle has now retired from being a board member, her structure and organization established in the first 3 years of operation is still being followed and Renaissance continues to run in the black.   REDeMED has been in operation since 2008. Rischelle has grown REDeMED into a highly profitable business. Operating under a cash only model has allowed for quick growth. REDeMED has extremely satisfied clients nationwide.   Rischelle graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine from Brigham Young University in 1994. Rischelle also enjoys serving in her community, especially with youth. Her favorite business is running a successful household and being a wife and mother of 4

Darrell Mauerman: Director   Darrell Mauerman is a person to whom people are responsive and loyal. Everybody likes Darrell. He is responsible to oversee the day-to-day operations of the company including sales, guest relations, merchandising, stock management, scheduling, employee relations, and purchasing.   Darrell has almost 15 years experience in jewelry sales, designing of custom pieces and many other 'facets' of the business. Darrell specializes in building relationships in the business community through cross-promoting business and has seen much success.   Darrell is certified in Diamonds and Diamond Grading through The Gemological Institute of America (GIA). He studied Health Promotions at Brigham Young University.   We are happy and fortunate to have him with us

Richard Beach: Head Goldsmith/Jeweler  For over 30 years Richard has been the main Goldsmith for a prominent jeweler along the Wasatch front. It is rare to have someone with the type of experience he has. He is excited to turn loose his creative abilities with Utah Jewelry Works.   Richard’s specialties include hand fabrication from raw precious metal, lost wax casting, laser welding, and vertical platinum casting. He is well versed in all types of stone setting including bezel, bright cut, pave, prong, thread, flush (gypsy), and casting in place. His jewelry pieces include engagement rings, pendants, earrings, pins, bracelets and many other forms of jewelry. These pieces or “art” are well known throughout Utah and he has a reputation for delivering unique, quality designs. He has meticulously run the shop to be extremely profitable through manufacturing, repairs of jewelry, management of precious metal materials and gemstones. He oversaw precious metal scrap and dust recovery from the workspace that lead to profit from the refiner.  Richard designed the gold buying program used by Check City involving take-in procedure, value determination, profit, and payout. He trained the company employees in the procedures of the program.   His education includes apprenticing with a prominent California Jeweler, Malcolm DeMille of DeMille Designs. He then apprenticed for casting and wax design with Swest of Los Angeles, CA. He also has formal goldsmith training through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Carlsbad, CA.