Founded in 2001 by Yehouda Saketkhou in San Francisco, CA, Yael Designs began as a personal passion project, driven by a deep love for artistry. What started as a dream has blossomed into a recognized fine jewelry brand, known for its creativity, uniqueness, and timeless beauty. Yehouda’s sister, Yael, was a big inspiration—she loved clipping out designer jewelry ads from magazines like Vogue and Town & Country and sharing them with him. Little did she know she was sparking something truly special.
After leaving Iran together, Yehouda and his sister built a strong bond while figuring out their life abroad. When they moved back to the U.S., it was just the two of them, making their connection even stronger. That profound relationship, built on trust and a passion for beauty, became the heart of Yael Designs. What began as diamonds-only jewelry, soon evolved into an appreciation of rare, high-quality gemstones, each piece telling a unique story.
From the very beginning, Yael Designs has brought a fresh perspective to the world of jewelry. One of the brand’s early milestones was being featured in an article by jewelry trade writer Diana Jarrett; it was a huge moment of validation. Then came industry recognition, including multiple AGTA Spectrum Awards, proving that Yael Designs creates something that matters.
Owner and CEO, Yael Designs
One of the brand’s biggest innovations was the “Stone in Stone” technique, developed as a collaboration of Yehouda with gemstone cutter Glenn Lehrer. This unique design approach pushed creative boundaries and became one of Yael’s signature styles, which won multiple awards. And of course, seeing celebrities like the Kardashians and Kerry Washington wear Yael pieces was a major highlight; it brought even more attention to the brand’s distinctive designs.
For Yehouda, the real magic is in the creative process: brainstorming new designs, developing fresh ideas, and bringing them to life. But the true reward comes in the moments of connection when a client’s eyes light up as they fall in love with a piece that feels destined for them or when his artistry is recognized with an industry award. It’s in these moments that his passion finds its deepest fulfillment.
Travel has always been a profound source of inspiration for Yehouda, with each journey leaving an unforgettable imprint on his heart. From the vibrant colors of diverse landscapes to the intricate details found in cities around the world, every experience fuels his creativity. This global influence takes center stage in Yael Designs’ upcoming 25th-anniversary collection—a stunning lineup of 25 unique pieces, each representing a year of the brand’s journey.
To commemorate this milestone, Yael Designs is also creating a curated coffee table book that unveils the story behind each masterpiece. The collection will make its debut at the 2026 JCK Luxury Show, offering jewelry lovers the rare opportunity to own a piece of Yael’s history.
The brand is also in the middle of a major rebranding effort. By 2026, Yael Designs will unveil a new online presence aimed at capturing the attention of a younger audience.
Being part of the American Gem Society (AGS) means a lot to Yael Designs. It’s more than just a membership—it’s being part of a community that truly values education and excellence. AGS gives access to amazing resources, especially when it comes to staying educated and ahead in the industry. Their commitment to high standards resonates with Yael’s passion for quality and craftsmanship, and creating jewelry to be proud of.
Visit yaeldesigns.com to learn more.
