Feature Photo: Courtesy of Sofia Jewellery
A decade ago, the founders of Sofia Jewelry in Mill Valley, Carl and Susan Priolo, passed the business to their children, Sophie and her brother, Lucas.
Carl, a second-generation jeweler, started his journey by designing and making silver bracelets using the “lost wax” casting technique. He and Susan sold the bracelets at street fairs and gained such a following that they opened a brick-and-mortar store in downtown Mill Valley, a cornerstone shop in the Marin enclave since 1994.
Before taking over the family jewelry business, both siblings had separate careers as professional ballet dancers — a creative path that has lent itself well to the storytelling and expression found within jewelry design. The sister-brother duo strives for each piece they craft to have its own story and aspire to make their shop feel as artistic and inviting as a stage set.
While Sofia Jewelry’s silver bracelets remain popular, the art of custom design and bespoke pieces has become the heart of their business — more than half of the design work now involves redesigning existing jewelry. They specialize in transforming treasured family heirlooms into something fresh and wearable. At the same time, the store offers a selection of jewelry at tiered price-point levels so that everyone can find something special to take home.
Recently, the team at Sofia Jewelry was approached by San Francisco entrepreneur Michael Polansky to make an engagement ring for his fiancée, Lady Gaga. Blending classic and modern styles, the Sofia Jewelry team came up with a unique ring featuring a natural ombré effect of pink diamonds that gracefully transitions in color from vivid pink to white. Lady Gaga loved the design concept and the ring was completed a few months later.
Being a family-run shop means Sophie and Lucas have the opportunity to get to know their customers on a personal level. They treat everyone like family — remembering names, sharing in celebrations and milestones, and making everyone feel welcome.
Sofia Jewelry can also be found at its second location, Johan Paul Fine Jewelry in Bon Air Shopping Center, as well as its online store at sofiajewelry.com.
Fine Jewelry
Necklacs
Rings
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Earrings
Lady Gaga's Engagement Ring
Lady Gaga’s engagement ring was designed and created by Sofia Jewelry, and is a stunning example of bespoke craftsmanship and a reflection of her unique style. The design and creation process behind her exquisite ring involved a combination of artistry, personalization, and attention to detail.
Sofia Jewelry specializes in creating pieces that are both timeless and modern, and this ring was no exception. While the details about the exact design process are private, personalization was key to the ring’s creation.
