When the world shut down in March 2020 due to COVID-19, Jen—a full-time jewelry artist—watched 32 art shows and more than $100,000 in projected revenue disappear in a matter of weeks. After navigating unemployment and EIDL loans, she knew she needed to pivot. By that summer, as restrictions began to ease, she started offering one-on-one metalsmithing lessons to students eager to learn.
What began as a practical solution quickly became a calling. Drawing on 18 years of experience teaching health and fitness in a former career, Jen realized she could seamlessly blend her love of metalsmithing with her passion for education. Determined to build something lasting, she applied for the Martha Kate Thomas Grant through the Boulder County Arts Alliance and was awarded funding in June 2020 to purchase three jeweler’s benches, flex shafts, and essential tools. Silver Peak Studio was born.
In July 2020, the first class—Cold Connections—was held in her 500-square-foot studio in North Boulder. As demand grew, the studio relocated to Louisville, Colorado, expanding to a larger space with additional benches and a growing roster of instructors, including her longtime friend and fellow metalsmith, Michele Throne. What began as a solo endeavor evolved into a vibrant teaching community.
In April 2024, Silver Peak Studio found its permanent home in Lafayette, Colorado, where Jen and her husband Shawn have lived for 28 years. A sixth bench was added in the classroom space on the north end of the building, and with it, a new vision: the opening of a retail store on the south end of the building. The space showcases the work of Jen, her instructors, and students while also offering custom fine jewelry services, including bespoke bridal design, engagement and wedding rings, and heirloom redesign. Clients can collaborate with Jen to create meaningful, heirloom-quality pieces—whether starting from a blank page or transforming treasured family jewelry into something entirely new. Jen also offers permanent jewelry services for individuals or private parties, adding a layer of meaningful connection.
In 2025, Silver Peak Studio’s retail space was remodeled to add a dedicated custom jewelry design space and rebranded to Silver Peak Jewelry Arts—reflecting both the depth of instruction and the elevated retail experience.
Today, Silver Peak Jewelry Arts is more than a school; it is a creative hub and fine jewelry destination. Our mission is to provide an unparalleled experience in learning the jewelry arts—joyful, educational, and deeply fulfilling—while also offering thoughtfully designed custom bridal jewelry and heirloom transformations that honor craftsmanship, story, and personal legacy.