Karina Mendoza-Wittke

  Karina was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and grew up in Freiburg, Germany. Being multi-cultural, and world traveler, she made her home in the Rogue Valley in 1994.

Jewelry making has been an integral part of Karina’s life since she began, at the age of 9, in Europe. For over 40 years, she has explored different mediums, techniques, styles, in jewelry-making, and continues to do so, allowing her creative spirit to grow and ruminate. 

Karina has ventured through Mexico, Central America, Europe, and other places, collecting beads, both new and old, which have become the core of her inspiration.

As she strives to bring out the beauty of nature, and serve as a vessel to connect it to people, she does not underestimate what natural stones can give us, and how instrumental they can be in bringing about change. 

Primarily self-taught, Karina uses metal sheet and wire, mostly sterling silver but also gold fill and copper, and draws, cuts, files, twists, shapes, fires, pounds, patinas and polishes away, making her own designs and signature clasps and findings come to life. Paying attention to organic beauty, functionality, durability, and impecable workmanship, Karina focuses on natural stones like beach pebbles, amber, obsidian, opals, pearls, and more, as well as collectible antique beads and carvings, to create intentional wearable art. 

“Jewelry making has come with me to all the places I have lived, throughout the stages of my life. It has been a haven, an anchor, a pillar, and my playground…” ~Karina.