From an early age Julie’s passion for jewelry design was evident. She began working in her parent’s jewelry store at the age of 14 where she exhibited a natural affinity for beauty and design. She then went on to study at Grossmont College where she met Jane Groover, her jewelry teacher and mentor who encouraged and inspired her to continue her education in metal arts, and embrace her love and passion for the arts. Julie earned a degree in Manufacturing Arts from the Gemological Institute of America and A Bachelors of Arts Degree in Applied Design from San Diego State University where she was lucky enough to study under Arline Fisch, Helen Shirk and Wendy Maruyama. Julie worked and apprenticed with several goldsmiths for years honing her craft. She worked at a few jewelry stores in San Diego including Taboo Studio when it was located in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Taboo Studio was started 34 years ago by Jane Groover and Joanna Rhodes as a Contemporary Jewelry Gallery. The baton was passed to Julie and now as new owner of Taboo Studio Julie has come full circle. She uses her platform to showcase not only her own beautiful designs but also to create an artistically inspired environment to include the designs of artists from all over the world. She enjoys sharing her love of creating unique pieces made from precious metals and exquisite stones with others. In that spirit Taboo Studio has become a Mecca for those in search of inspired treasures.