It all started because my friends were getting married...

The First Piece of Jewelry 

I designed two mixed media, matching wedding bands for my best friends Sherri and Peter’s wedding. Granted this was the 7th grade, so the rings weren’t of the finest quality. They performed an elaborate ceremony complete with an exchange of the wedding bands and an awkward kiss. The marriage, unfortunately, didn’t last past the 8th grade but my passion for making jewelry did

Then Came the Kids

I graduated from The University of Arizona with a bachelor's degree in fine arts and worked in design until it was time to stay home and raise my two kids. In the summer of 2000, somewhere between diapers, binkies and Tickle Me Elmo's Little Bridget Jewelry was born. I made a necklace, sold it that day and promptly went back to the bead store for more materials. The name Little Bridget Jewelry was changed to Fierce and Free jewelry in 2020. 

Finding My Passion & Sharing it With the World

I am passionate about advocating for LGBT rights. The experience of having an LGBT family has taught me things about love and acceptance others haven't had the opportunity to learn. Fierce and Free's Equality line came from my desire to inspire change and my love of jewelry making. My intention of love is nestled into each piece I create and it is my greatest thrill to watch it go out into the world. To further this intention, a portion of each month's sales goes to organizations that support equal rights for all.

Karen Boelts is the owner and founder of Fierce and Free Jewelry. Her studio sits at the base of the majestic Flatirons in Boulder, Colorado. Ever since she was a little tot, she dreamed of being an artist.