A first generation Ukrainian-American, Karina was drawn to the mystical beauty of horses from a young age. Appreciating the creatures for their many ethereal qualities, she’s drawn to their place in mythology, often taking a nod from historical references in the creation of talismanic pieces. A long-standing desire to give back is also a driving force for the designer, who loved the opportunity to give back to her community through her Miss Florida experience. She is also a staunch advocate for non-profit organizations that introduce children to the healing power of horses.

Her first collection, Huggable Hooves, features interlocking hooves in bracelets and rings that allow horses to hug the wearer back. Her Bit of LUV collection was originally conceived as a custom piece for a client, who wanted to have a bespoke piece that represented her bit. An accurate representation of a horse bit, which is part of the bridle, the deeper meaning at play throughout the collection is the bits’ subtle yet powerful role as a form of communication between rider and horse.

With its graceful curves and impeccable craftsmanship, it is an elegant interpretation of utilitarian design, “The Bit of LUV bracelet feels like butter in your hand,” Karina explains. “All the links are movable, and the pictures are great, but the feel of it is even smoother and more comfortable to wear than one realizes.”

Karina’s most recent collection, Horsea, is divined from Greek drama. After earthquakes and floods consumed the island of Atlantis, its overseeing deity and the creator of the first horse, Poseidon, was distraught seeing the loss of his beloved creation as they descended into the sea, so he transformed each into a Horsea to dwell within the sunken lost city. To provide his Horseas with eternal protection, he affixed the creatures with the pearls, gems, diamonds and golds (some of the treasures of Atlantis).

“The development of mythology and fusing of its stories to our lives is ever-evolving,” says Karina. “The Horsea not only continues an ancient story, but it offers a tangible connection to it. Connecting those who have a passion for the equestrian, or the ocean, to storytelling is an expansion of creativity and human nature. These medallions celebrate the origin story of the Horsea and are the beginning of what will be an expanding collection, where modern mythology meets equine style.”