ADAM FOSTER
Jeweler/Owner
Adam Foster Fine Jewelry
Adam Foster has loved beautiful craftsmanship since he was a child, inspired by a family trip to Italy. Since then, tapping into his respect for tradition, along with his intricate workmanship, he has created collections of ultra-fine jewelry that have been highlighted at the likes of New York’s Bergdorf Goodman, and are sold in luxury stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers in St. Louis.
Foster’s aesthetic as a master jeweler is a study in contrasts: past and present, traditional and contemporary, delicate and bold. He pairs Old World jewelry-making techniques with the latest technology to create pieces that present a modern sensibility with a nod to the past. Each of his pieces is visually arresting and modern, with the focus on design. He believes that jewelry should reflect the wearer, with individuality being of utmost importance.
Raised in St. Louis, Foster received his bachelor’s degree in metalsmithing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He has developed a long list of loyal clientele, creating unique designs, including one-of-a-kind bridal jewelry, fueled by his desire to create personal, contemporary pieces with a classic connection to the past.
Career Path
I decided to go into making jewelry the second year of college. I have been focused on my goal of making jewelry for 19 years. It has been hard to stay on track. I have had to make sacrifices and be flexible to move forward to my ultimate goal. Life always gets in the way, but that is what makes life interesting.
Biggest Mentor
My father taught me a lot about work, in general. At the time, I did not think it was valuable, but now that I see the working habits of other people, I can really appreciate it. He always said if you are not 10 minutes early, you are already late. He also said if your boss tells you to mop the floor, you have already failed. A good worker would have seen that the floor needed to be mopped and taken care of it. As a child, I thought this was ridiculous, but when I put it into practice at my own jobs over the years, it helped me become a valuable part of the team.
Biggest Impact
I am still working on what my biggest impact will be, but I would like to think my designs will have a place in the history of fine jewelry in America.
Future Goals
My goal since I started 19 years ago has been to build a globally recognized jewelry company.
Favorite Pastime
Travel.
Memorable Life Moment
I don’t focus on one moment. It is about the whole picture. I want to look back and think, “The whole damn thing was amazing!”
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