Our Team
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Kirkor Kocek, President & Designer
Kirkor began his apprenticeship in the art of jewelry design and manufacture at the age of 12 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is trained in all aspects of jewelry production, including wax carving, casting and hand fabrication. He is a master metalsmith who produces jewelry in yellow gold, white gold and platinum. A few of his areas of expertise include anticlastic manufacture and granulation techniques.
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Natalie Kocekian, Chief Operating Officer
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Giovanni Lo Gelfo, Jeweler
Giovanni is originally from Palermo, Sicily where he worked as a goldsmith and came to California in May 2014 after winning his green card with the diversity Visa program. His first job in the US was as a dishwasher on Alvarado Street Brewery and he was hired shortly after at Kocek Jeweler's to work as a jeweler after being introduced by a mutual friend.
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Michelle Johnson, Office Manager
Michelle has been a part of the Monterey Peninsula for 38+ years and has worked over 20 years in the hospitality and luxury industries. Her main goals are to make sure every customer at Kocek Jeweler Inc feels seen, heard, and appreciated. She sees every customer as an opportunity to create memories!
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Kimberly Seftel, Jewelry Appraiser
Kimberly Seftel is a master appraiser and fine jewelry specialist based in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Carmel-by-the-Sea, with over 20 years of experience in the field. A 2008 graduate of the Gemology Institute of America’s (GIA) Graduate Gemologist program, she began her career in 2002 with G.H. Wilke, Inc., a third-generation antique jeweler in Carmel. Kimberly is renowned for her deep expertise in gemstone cuts, metals, and design eras, serving clients across the U.S.
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Theodore, Head of Security
Since assuming his role as Head of Security in 2020, our German Shepherd has been a watchful and dedicated protector of the jewelry store. His serious patrols and imposing presence serve as a natural deterrent, though he's been known to accept payment in ear scratches from trusted clients. More than just a guard, he is the loyal and beloved heart of our work family.
AWARDS
Carmel Residents Association - Certification of Appreciation, 2020
Green Ribbon of Excellence, Carmel Business Association, Antique/jewelry Shop of The Year, 2000
Green Ribbon of Excellence, Carmel Business Association, Business of The Year, 2001
State of California Senate, Certification of Recognition, Business of The Year, 2001
Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, Outstanding and Invaluable Service To The Community, 2001
California State Sheriffs Association, Certificate of Recognition, Associate Member Since 1987
The Best of Monterey County, Best Jeweler, 1997-1998
Carmel Chamber of Commerce, 45 Years Of Membership
Carmel Chamber of Commerce, Award of Excellence For Small Retail, 2020
Carmel Chamber of Commerce, Award of Excellence, Best Apparel & Jewelry, 2008
Carmel Chamber of Commerce, Award of Excellence For Community Champion, 2018
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
Alton Walker Distinguished Service Award, For Exemplary Service To The Community and Rotary Club of Monterey, 2013
Outstanding Service, Rotary International, 1990
Rotary Serving Humanity Award, Outstanding Leadership and Dedicated Service To Humanity, 2017
Rotary Club Of Monterey, Outstanding Leadership and Dedication During Your Term As President, 2007-2008
CERTIFICATIONS
Certificate of Associate Membership, International Society of Appraisers
Member of Retail Jewelers of America Inc, California Jewelers Association 1976
The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers Certification