Through a process of trial and error, the Austin, Texas-native quickly discovered that, while he possessed creative acumen, bringing his exact vision to life in wearable form was outside of his purview. He turned to a local Master Jeweler, Patrick Dobbs, for assistance. Guided by Patrick, Robert taught himself to become proficient in CAD and, in combination with Patrick’s expertise in the technology and prowess at the bench, the two began producing unique and distinctive designs.

In 2022, with Patrick by his side, Robert launched Jamie Turner Designs. Named after his daughter, who is an ongoing source of inspiration and in whose taste and style he places great stock, the pieces are a beautiful combination of organic and modern, feminine, yet with a sleek, urban appeal. The work showcases a reverence for nature; a respect for its random order and the beauty of its imperfections. Heavily influenced by Texas Hill Country, that region’s unique topography is reflected in the way the jewelry plays with light and shadow, the undulations of its terrain evident in the work’s graceful curves and geometric lines, and the vibrancy of Austin illustrated in its bold silhouettes.

The brand’s most recent, Fall 2024 campaign eloquently evokes the visceral sensation of some of the imagery’s most prevailing influences, “Our Fall/Winter 2024 Collection showcases our technical ability, bold colorful stones, and the organic shapes that define Jamie Turner,” Robert says. “Handpicked beads inspired by the Texas midnight sky and modern stone settings come to life against the red sandstone slopes of Palo Duro Canyon.”

A brand statement goes on to describe the photo shoot location, “Here, ochre canyon walls stairstep into the Llano Estacado, and in the twilight, you can glimpse ghosts of Indigenous camps and the once great bison herds through the thin veil of time. The wind echoes through this ancient valley and reminds us of what we seek in nature: a deeper connection; a story of our own.”

Operating exclusively out of their Austin-based studio, Robert and Patrick have devised their own system for realizing their creative vision. Working alongside a dedicated team of craftspeople, they combine state-of-the-art know how with ancient metalsmithing techniques. The team’s shared shorthand results in a picture of harmony and efficiency, each taking pride in their respective rolls and each exulting in the outcome of their efforts.

Working in 18k gold, using only gemstones that meet Robert’s well-honed and exacting standards, from sketch to CAD to casting, stone setting and polishing, pieces are lovingly shepherded through every meticulous step of the manufacturing process. The resulting work showcases both the precision of cutting-edge, CAD and the warmth and depth of handcrafted designs.