John S. Brana: Mastering the Art of Handmade Jewelry

About John S. Brana

John S. Brana is a celebrated San Francisco jewelry designer, renowned for his distinctive, handcrafted pieces that blend classic elegance with bold, contemporary flair. Every creation is meticulously made in his San Francisco studio, where Brana draws inspiration from nature, world travel, and the vibrant cultural diversity of Northern California. His collections are a testament to his belief that jewelry should be as unique as the person wearing it, combining top-quality materials with innovative design to create wearable works of art.
Discover more on his official site | Ganoksin profile

“Nature is my primary source of inspiration. Whether I’m driving down the coast, strolling through a park, or tending my garden, the natural world shows that the creative combinations of colors, textures, patterns, shapes, and symbols are endless.”
— John S. Brana

From Finance to Fine Art

Before launching his jewelry brand, Brana built a successful career in finance, serving as Vice President of Finance for The Charles Schwab Corporation. The passing of his father in 2003 prompted a profound shift in his life, inspiring him to return to his artistic roots and pursue his passion for artisan crafts full-time. In 2004, he founded Galleria NuVo, Inc., and the John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry brand was born.
Read more about his journey on LinkedIn | Crunchbase profile | ZoomInfo

Signature Designs and Materials

Brana’s collections are celebrated for their diversity in both style and material. He works with sterling silver, gold, copper, bronze, aluminum, and more, often incorporating faceted gemstones, freshwater pearls, and Venetian glass. Some of his most popular and acclaimed designs include:

Lily Pad Earrings: Anodized aluminum, vibrant colors, nature-inspired forms
Ginkgo Leaf Earrings: Crafted from Nu Gold brass and aluminum, capturing the elegance of the ginkgo leaf
Bark Copper Cuffs: Hand-textured, solid copper with a unique bark finish
Fold Formed and Anticlastic Jewelry: Sculptural pieces showcasing advanced metalworking techniques
Patinated Copper Pendants and Earrings: Featuring a spectrum of organic colors and textures, especially in his Muir Woods collection

Explore his handmade jewelry collection or see all designs.

The Brana Philosophy

Brana’s philosophy is simple: “Do what you love and explore what you are passionate about.” This ethos is reflected in his commitment to sustainability—using recycled, U.S.-sourced metals—and his dedication to old-world craftsmanship. Every piece is designed to be both beautiful and durable, intended to be treasured for years to come.
Learn more about his philosophy | SFMade member profile | Metal Arts Guild SF

What Makes His Copper Jewelry Unique

Material Quality: Crafted from 99.9% pure copper, offering a rich, rose-gold-like hue at an accessible price point
Handcrafted Techniques: Utilizes chasing, fold forming, anticlastic raising, and organic patination for truly one-of-a-kind designs
Bohemian Influence: Designs embody a free-spirited, nature-inspired aesthetic, perfect for those who value individuality
Versatility: Pieces range from bold statement cuffs to delicate earrings, suitable for any occasion
Health and Wellness Appeal: Some clients choose copper for its perceived wellness benefits

Discover more about his copper jewelry | Copper in the Arts feature | National Jeweler spotlight

Media Recognition and Industry Acclaim

John S. Brana’s award-winning designs have been featured in leading jewelry trade publications, national magazines, and media outlets, including:

JCK
MJSA
Copper.org
InDesign
NBC Bay Area
Jewellery World Review
Gentry Magazine
Niche
InStore
Oryx
Kempinski
Gift Shop
7X7
City
JQ-International Jewelry Quorum
Zinette

See his full media profile

Shop & Connect

Every John S. Brana piece tells a story—of passion, creativity, and the endless inspiration found in nature and city life. Whether you’re seeking a bold statement cuff, delicate earrings, or a custom heirloom, Brana’s collections offer something for every style and occasion.

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Learn more and explore the artistry that has made John S. Brana a standout name in contemporary jewelry design. To find out more about John S. Brana's jewelry, visit John's BLOG