​Courtney Gray’s passion for custom jewelry design evolved naturally from her background in sculpture and art metals. She began her artistic journey working with copper and steel in collegiate studies of welding technologies, and by 1996, she found herself immersed in the jewelry world as a casting technician and bench jeweler.After completing certifications in art metals and sculpture, Courtney traveled to Europe to deepen her craft. Studying at Germany’s prestigious Handwerkskammer School in Koblenz, she earned six international certifications in various welding processes.

 

With this robust foundation, Courtney returned to Austin, where she established her own jewelry studio, blending her expertise in jewelry design, fabrication, and welding.Driven by a desire to share her knowledge and inspire others, Courtney founded Creative Side Jewelry Academy of Austin, which quickly became a beloved institution for jewelers and aspiring metalsmiths worldwide. At her school, she taught wax casting and welcomed master jewelers from across the globe.

 

After retiring from this chapter in 2019, she took on a new role as host of Rio Grande’s For the Love of Jewelers podcast, where she interviewed industry leaders and innovators, bringing global insights to jewelers everywhere.

 

Today, Courtney can be found weekly on her podcast “The Jeweler’s View" where she shares insights, knowledge, mindset techniques and inspiration to makers at all phases in their journey so they can find success. Courtney combines her passion for teaching with her extensive experience in jewelry, marketing, and business development as a Creative Consultant and Mentor. She now offers workshops, coaching, and online courses aimed at helping creative businesses and independent artists grow with confidence and clarity. Visitors to her site can book a free 30-minute consultation to explore the tailored guidance she provides.

​

Courtney continues to design one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, specializing in custom engagement rings, wedding bands, and heirloom rejuvenations. Her devotion to her craft and her clients’ satisfaction has made her one of Austin’s most distinguished custom jewelers.

Balancing her worlds as a consultant, mentor, podcast producer, custom jeweler, and singer-songwriter in her band Suburban Beat, Courtney brings positive energy, intention, and love to all she does. Her friends and colleagues admire her dedication, and she finds true success in weaving these passions together.