For every jewelry collection, there’s a moment in the studio when things just “click” - when a new idea begins to take shape in metal and stone, and a collection transforms from sketches into something that can be lived in and loved. For the El Dorado Collection, that moment was bright, colorful, and full of discovery - just like the Lost City of Gold.

xo Elaine 

A Journey Through Color and Form

El Dorado draws inspiration from the mythical city of gold - but in our version, it’s less about riches and more about discovery. Each design is a playful exploration of form, texture, and color - just like finding hidden treasure! It’s a celebration of beautiful tourmaline stones in sunset hues, with irregular, organic shapes that seem to glow from within.

“This was a really fun practice in fabricating tiny bezel settings,” shared Caitlin, one of the jewelers behind the collection. “These are the smallest, most organically shaped stones I’ve ever worked with. Thinking about weight distribution and how everything would connect was like solving a puzzle at times.”

And it was a puzzle joyfully pieced together. Caitlin and Elaine, our founder,  spent time hand-selecting each stone - pairing unexpected colors and playing with combinations of cuts, sizes, and settings. The goal wasn’t uniformity, but harmony across the designs. 

“We had so much fun going through the tourmaline,” Caitlin said. Some of the stones were soft and pale, others bold and bright - and each one brought its own character to the table. The designs became a sort of color story all their own.

Design process from Elaine B Jewelry's El Dorado Collection.

From Sketch to Sparkle

The El Dorado designs are composed like tiny sculptures. They combine prong and bezel settings, delicate chain, and hand-fabricated wire elements. The shapes dance between positive and negative space, giving the jewelry a sense of movement and lightness. 

Elaine and Caitlin found a sort of balance in each design - between the structural and the organic, between open space and bold stones. This collection is playful but also really intentional.

The craftsmanship behind each setting, each joint, had to be precise to bring the vision to life. Caitlin shared some of her original design sketches and behind-the-scenes photos from the studio, revealing the thoughtful process that goes into each piece. As you can tell from these behind the scenes images, every step reflects the care and creativity that defines our work at Elaine B Jewelry.

Process from Caitlin's bench for the El Dorado Collection by Elaine B Jewelry.

One of a Kind, Every Time

What makes the El Dorado Collection even more special is that it’s truly one of a kind. Each design was made only once - never duplicated - meaning when you purchase an El Dorado design, you're getting a piece of jewelry that no one else will ever own. This individuality mirrors the organic, natural feel of the collection itself. And now you get your own hidden treasure! A handful of these one-of-a-kind designs are still available and currently featured in our Spring Sale, making this the perfect moment to make your own jewelry discovery.

Don't miss El Dorado's remaining designs now available in the Spring Sale!

Making the Collection Picture Perfect

The photography for the El Dorado Collection was a true team effort - led by Heather, our Senior Designer and our wonderful photographer, Jenna. Each shot was thoughtfully styled and captured to reflect the warmth and natural beauty of a glowing summer day. From sun-drenched model shots to detailed close-ups, our goal was to let the stones take center stage. Their organic shapes and vibrant hues were highlighted with soft, natural lighting that brought out their luminous, almost glowing qualities. The collaborative energy behind the camera mirrored the creativity at the bench, resulting in images that feel as joyful and radiant as the collection itself.

Elaine B. Jewelry's El Dorado Collection

The Beauty of Discovery

We’re so proud of this collection, and so grateful for the incredible hands and minds that brought it to life. The artistry, patience, and problem-solving spirit of our incredible jewelers made the El Dorado dream a reality.

Shop the El Dorado Collection here.

Shop All Collections here.

Shop Sale here.