GOLDEN LOON DESIGNS

ABOUT

BEN PAULEY

Founder & Master Metalsmith

My name is Ben Pauley, and Golden Loon Designs was founded on a lifelong devotion to metalwork and an uncompromising respect for craftsmanship. My path to fine jewelry began at the forge. Through blacksmithing—shaping hot steel by hand—I learned patience, precision, and the discipline required to create objects meant to endure.

That foundation expanded into advanced metal fabrication, including custom metal work, welding, and restoration for classic automobiles, where tolerances are unforgiving, and every line must be intentional. Working on heritage vehicles refined my eye for proportion, surface finish, and structural integrity—principles that now define my approach to fine jewelry.

My introduction to jewelry came when I was asked to create wedding bands for a close friend. The experience revealed something extraordinary: the ability to apply technical mastery on an intimate scale, creating objects of permanence that carry profound personal meaning. From that moment, jewelry became my singular focus.

As my work evolved, so did my commitment to originality. I grew increasingly disillusioned with mass-produced designs—pieces lacking character, intention, or soul. True luxury, to me, is not repetition, but authorship. It is the result of thoughtful design, meticulous execution, and a deep respect for the material.

I specialize exclusively in custom work. Each piece begins as a conversation and ends as something entirely singular—designed to reflect the individuality, history, and aesthetic of its wearer. Whether creating an engagement ring, wedding band, or heirloom piece, my aim is always the same: to translate personal narrative into enduring form through precision artistry.

Our Story

BEN PAULEY

Founder & Master Metalsmith

My name is Ben Pauley, and Golden Loon Designs was founded on a lifelong devotion to metalwork and an uncompromising respect for craftsmanship. My path to fine jewelry began at the forge. Through blacksmithing—shaping hot steel by hand—I learned patience, precision, and the discipline required to create objects meant to endure.

That foundation expanded into advanced metal fabrication, including custom metal work, welding, and restoration for classic automobiles, where tolerances are unforgiving, and every line must be intentional. Working on heritage vehicles refined my eye for proportion, surface finish, and structural integrity—principles that now define my approach to fine jewelry.

My introduction to jewelry came when I was asked to create wedding bands for a close friend.

The experience revealed something extraordinary: the ability to apply technical mastery on an intimate scale, creating objects of permanence that carry profound personal meaning. From that moment, jewelry became my singular focus.

As my work evolved, so did my commitment to originality. I grew increasingly disillusioned with mass-produced designs—pieces lacking character, intention, or soul. True luxury, to me, is not repetition, but authorship. It is the result of thoughtful design, meticulous execution, and a deep respect for the material.

I specialize exclusively in custom work. Each piece begins as a conversation and ends as something entirely singular—designed to reflect the individuality, history, and aesthetic of its wearer. Whether creating an engagement ring, wedding band, or heirloom piece, my aim is always the same: to translate personal narrative into enduring form through precision artistry.

BEN BROWN

Partner & Curator of Vision

I am Ben Brown, a scientist by training and a lifelong patron of the arts. My professional background has shaped how I evaluate quality: through rigor, structure, and evidence of mastery. As a collector, I am drawn to work that demonstrates intention, technical excellence, and lasting value.

Through years of observing Ben Pauley’s work, it became clear that his craftsmanship operates at a level rarely encountered. His command of metal, insistence on precision, and disciplined creative process distinguish his work well beyond contemporary trends. This is craftsmanship rooted in tradition, executed with modern clarity.

Recognizing both the artistic merit and long-term value of his work, I chose to invest personally in Golden Loon Designs and join as a business partner. My role is to support the studio’s growth while preserving the integrity of the craft.

With a newly expanded workshop, refined tooling, and a shared commitment to excellence, Golden Loon Designs is positioned to create increasingly ambitious bespoke fine jewelry—pieces defined not by volume, but by meaning, precision, and permanence.

BEN BROWN

Founder & Master Metalsmith

I am Ben Brown, a scientist by training and a lifelong patron of the arts. My professional background has shaped how I evaluate quality: through rigor, structure, and evidence of mastery. As a collector, I am drawn to work that demonstrates intention, technical excellence, and lasting value.

Through years of observing Ben Pauley’s work, it became clear that his craftsmanship operates at a level rarely encountered. His command of metal, insistence on precision, and disciplined creative process distinguish his work well beyond contemporary trends.

This is craftsmanship rooted in tradition, executed with modern clarity. Recognizing both the artistic merit and long-term value of his work, I chose to invest personally in Golden Loon Designs and join as a business partner. My role is to support the studio’s growth while preserving the integrity of the craft.

With a newly expanded workshop, refined tooling, and a shared commitment to excellence, Golden Loon Designs is positioned to create increasingly ambitious bespoke fine jewelry—pieces defined not by volume, but by meaning, precision, and permanence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Our Most Common Custom Jewelry Questions

How does the custom jewelry process work?

We start with a consultation to learn about your ideas, budget, and style—whether you have a clear design in mind or just a general vision. From there, we create a custom design, refine it with your feedback, and then handcraft the piece using high-quality metals and stones. You’ll be involved at every key step so the final piece feels truly “yours.”

Can I bring my own materials or stones?

Yes. We welcome client-supplied materials, including heirloom stones, elk ivory, or other sentimental pieces. We’ll evaluate them for suitability, durability, and safety before we design around them. If something isn’t a good fit structurally, we’ll explain why and suggest alternatives that still honor the original sentiment.

How much does custom jewelry cost?

Pricing varies based on the design, metal, and gemstones you choose. We’ll provide a clear estimate before any work begins, and we can often offer options at different price points. There are no surprise charges—any changes that affect cost are always discussed and approved by you first.

Do you offer repairs, resizing, or maintenance?

Yes. We stand behind our craftsmanship and offer resizing, cleaning, and maintenance for the pieces we create. If your jewelry ever needs a touch-up, adjustment, or repair, you can bring it back to us and we’ll help keep it looking and fitting its best for years to come.

Do I need a design ready before contacting you?

No, you don’t need a finished design. Some clients bring sketches or photos, others just share a general idea or story. We’ll guide you through styles, metals, stones, and design options to create a piece that reflects your vision and fits your budget.

Your Stone, Your Stories.

Custom-set diamonds and gems, crafted in Stewartville with lifetime care. Designed around your life, not a display case.

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LOCATION

Stewartville, MN 55976

USA

Hours

Monday - Thursday

8 am — 5 pm

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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Our Most Common Custom Jewelry Questions

How does the custom jewelry process work?

We start with a consultation to learn about your ideas, budget, and style—whether you have a clear design in mind or just a general vision. From there, we create a custom design, refine it with your feedback, and then handcraft the piece using high-quality metals and stones. You’ll be involved at every key step so the final piece feels truly “yours.”