We believe that jewelry should tell stories.

Personalization matters to us because jewelry carries stories—and our stories are what make us unique.

Rose never set out to open retail stores. She was looking for a creative outlet to tell her own story of trials and overcoming.

Forced to live on her own at 13 years old, while her mother experienced homelessness and lived with mental illness, Rose grew up with an uncertain path. Between 15 and 16, she worked eight different jobs, searching for something she loved.

One of those jobs was at Magnolia in Kahala Mall, where she discovered jewelry: something people of every age and gender could connect with. At 16, she took her last $50 to Ben Franklin, bought tools and materials, and began creating. The craft mirrored her life—something unformed, a messy process, yet something beautiful emerging.

Rose had always approached things differently, a perspective she credits to being homeschooled and learning to think in her own way.

In college, she became president of the Entrepreneurs Club, opened a student-run boutique, organized markets, and brought community leaders to campus. Winning pitch competitions, awards, and local business features followed.

At 20, she secured a $20,000 order for 10,000 wave rings from a Los Angeles subscription box company. Soon after, a call from a leasing agent at the newly renovated ‘Alohilani Resort opened another door.

At 21, while finishing her senior year of college, she opened Kolohe’s first store.

Rose moved across the street from the hotel and poured herself into the space. A nearby contractor noticed her dedication and offered a beautiful piece of marble for the register.

“I always see you working hard with a smile on your face. I want to help you.”

Kolohe grew through hard work and the generosity of people willing to believe in a young founder. When the pandemic made retail uncertain, Rose turned to live videos to stay connected with customers around the world.

At 22, she took another leap and opened a second location. The early months were difficult, but the business found its footing and continued to grow.

As Kolohe evolved, so did Rose’s love for the craft. Simple handmade pieces became fine jewelry, wedding rings, and custom designs. What drew her in most was the person behind each piece: their story, their vision, and the chance to bring it to life.

Building a business also meant growing as a leader. Her Christian faith became central to her life and work, guiding her toward wisdom, integrity, and care for the people around her.

That commitment to learning brought her to the Gemological Institute of America in Carlsbad. Supported by a full-ride merit scholarship recognizing her achievements, she earned her Graduate Jeweler credential.

Today, Kolohe is a Hawai‘i-based custom jewelry studio built around individuality and connection. From the Jewelry Bar to an engagement ring designed from the first sketch, our work begins with the person who will wear it.

Rose is an award-winning founder and public speaker whose journey has been shared through articles, podcasts, and interviews. Through every chapter, she holds authenticity close—in what she creates, how she leads, and the connections she makes.

Our story started with Rose imagining a different future for herself. It continues with every person who trusts us to create something meaningful for theirs.