About Images Jewelers
Founded in 1976 in a small backstreet studio, Images Jewelers has always embraced a vision: to unite the artistry of design, the skill of craftsmanship, expert knowledge of precious gems and metals, and a passion for excellence. For over 45 years, these core principles have guided our journey and shaped our reputation as one of the nation’s premier jewelers.
Today, our commitment to creating beautiful and timeless jewelry pieces is stronger than ever. At Images Jewelers, we have the unique ability to transform ideas—and even emotions—into exquisite works of art. Our design expertise is complemented by exceptional craftsmanship and cutting-edge techniques, all supported by the knowledge of Graduate Gemologists and a vast network of gem sources. The result is unparalleled jewelry that is not only unique but also precious.
In addition to our custom creations, we proudly carry the world’s most exclusive jewelry lines, including Rolex. Visit our showroom located across the street from North Side Middle School at 300 E. Bristol Street in Elkhart, Indiana. Our showroom hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
The Owners:
Shawn
B.S. Business Process, Indiana University
Jewelry Designer
GIA Graduate
Shawn Klose is the co-owner of Images Jewelers and a nationally recognized jewelry designer with over 20 years of experience in jewelry retail, design, and manufacturing. A Graduate of GIA’s Diamonds and Colored Stones Programs, Shawn personally selects the finest gemstones, ensuring the best quality and value for our custom jewelry clients.
With a B.S. in Business Process from Indiana University Bloomington and a background in golf and hospitality management, Shawn combines business expertise with a commitment to exceptional customer service. His ability to lead teams and create an unparalleled service environment has been honed through years of experience. Shawn’s talent in jewelry design was nationally recognized when he won the 2014 Gemvision Design Contest, an award that honors excellence in computer-aided jewelry design. His expertise, passion, and dedication make him an invaluable guide in the custom design process, helping clients bring their dream jewelry to life.
Kelly
B.S. Management, Indiana University
Jewelry Designer
GIA Graduate
Kelly Klose is a key leader at Images Jewelers, as co-owner overseeing both our design team and web sales department. As the son of founder Bob Klose, Kelly carries forward the tradition of excellence that has defined our company for decades. A Graduate of GIA’s Diamonds Program and holding a B.S. in Management from Indiana University, Kelly brings both technical expertise and business acumen to the team. With fifteen years of experience in the jewelry industry, he has become an integral part of our leadership, ensuring that every client receives exceptional service and innovative designs.
Kelly’s dedication to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction continues to shape the future of Images Jewelers, helping clients bring their unique visions to life through custom jewelry.
The Sales Staff:
Ashley
Jewelry Specialist | GIA Applied Jewelry Professional™
Ashley joined Images Jewelers in 2023, bringing a passion for fine jewelry and exceptional customer service. A Graduate of GIA’s Applied Jewelry Professional™ (AJP) program, she is expanding her expertise as she continues her education with GIA.
Before transitioning into the jewelry industry, Ashley spent over five years as an ophthalmic technician, specializing in primary eye care and treatment. Her attention to detail and dedication to helping others now shine through in her work at Images Jewelers, where she provides personalized guidance to clients in the community she calls home.
Alexis
Jewelry Buyer | Digital Marketing Specialist
Alexis is a jewelry enthusiast and style aficionado who plays a vital role in Images Jewelers’ buying trips, ensuring we source the finest pieces for our clients. A Graduate of Indiana University and the Edge Retail Academy, she brings both business insight and a keen eye for emerging trends.
With expertise in social media and search engine optimization, Alexis keeps Images Jewelers at the forefront of online marketing. Her ability to blend creativity with strategy makes her an invaluable member of our team, helping us connect with clients in fresh and innovative ways.
The Jewelers
Chris
Head Jeweler | Master Craftsman
Chris is the head jeweler at Images Jewelers and a core member of our design team. With over 30 years of experience in fine jewelry and artisan work, he is a true master of his craft. His expertise spans custom fabrication, precision repairs, and masterful stone setting, making him an invaluable asset to our team.
Chris’s dedication to excellence and continuous growth in the trade has set a high standard in our workshop. His leadership helps guide the next generation of jewelers, ensuring that Images Jewelers remains at the forefront of craftsmanship and innovation.
Nicole
Jewelry Designer | Bench Jeweler
Nicole is the newest member of our design team at Images Jewelers, joining us from her home state of Pennsylvania. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine Metals from Kutztown University and training from the New Approach School for Jewelers’ Graduate Bench Jeweler program, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to our workshop.
From a young age, Nicole has been passionate about creating and crafting in various mediums. Her early introduction to fine metals in high school ignited a desire to pursue a career in jewelry design. After honing her skills in fabrication and enameling during her college years, she gained five years of experience as a bench jeweler in her home state, mastering jewelry repair and stone setting. Seeking new challenges, Nicole has brought her expertise and creative spirit to Images Jewelers, where she continues to thrive in the world of fine jewelry design.
Ben
Jewelry Designer | Craftsman
With 25 years of experience in the design and manufacture of fine jewelry, Ben is a master craftsman known for his meticulous attention to detail. His expertise lies in bringing the most complex designs to life, guiding each piece from concept to completion.
Ben’s passion for jewelry design is evident in every creation, where he combines artistry with precision to produce exceptional work. His dedication to craftsmanship has made him an invaluable member of the Images Jewelers team, continually inspiring those around him.
The Office Staff:
Jared
B.S. Business Administration
GIA Jewelry, Diamond and Colored Stone Fundamentals
Jared started in the steel industry where he was a plant manager. He uses these skills to help Bob and Steve grow Images Jewelers to the next level by providing internal business analysis and helping with day to day operations, allowing Bob and Steve get back to their best skills, designing and selling jewelry.
Jerri
Holding the most important position in the office (head bookkeeper), she keeps our financial house in order through her over 30 years experience in accounting, business development, finance, and tax law.
Taylor
As office support, Taylor has a crucial role in making sure things run smoothly. We love working with her as she brings a true sense of joy to the workplace.
The Founders:
Bob Klose
Founder | Master Jeweler | Graduate Gemologist (GIA)
Born and raised in Elkhart, Indiana, Bob Klose has dedicated his life to the art of fine jewelry. He earned a B.A. in Jewelry Design and Silversmithing from Indiana University Bloomington, studying under legendary artists Alma Ikerman and Helen Shirk. As a Graduate Gemologist (GIA) and a Senior Charter Member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, Bob’s expertise in gemstones and metals is unparalleled.
In 1976, he founded Metal Images, a small jewelry and sculpture studio in a 1900s carriage house. Within a year, he rebranded to Images Jewelers to reflect his growing focus on custom jewelry. By 1979, the business had expanded into a 4,000-square-foot showroom and workshop, laying the foundation for what would become one of the nation’s premier jewelers.
Bob’s passion for fine gemstones led him to co-found a gem and jewelry wholesale company in 1990, requiring frequent travel across Thailand, Hong Kong, and Europe in search of the finest stones. In 1993, Images Jewelers moved to its current location, embracing advanced design techniques and state-of-the-art craftsmanship. Today, Bob continues his legacy not only through jewelry but also through his handcrafted, high-end knives, available in the Indiana showroom.
Steve Lennox
Co-Founder | Jewelry Designer | Mechanical Engineer
A co-founder of Images Jewelers, Steve Lennox has been an integral part of the business since its inception in 1976. With degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the University of South Carolina, as well as GIA certifications in Diamonds and Colored Stones, Steve brings a technical precision to fine jewelry design.
His early career in tool and die design honed his meticulous attention to detail, which seamlessly translated into jewelry craftsmanship. His adventurous spirit led him to Brazil, where he dredged for diamonds and gold after receiving specialized diving instruction from a French oil rig diver.
As shop foreman and a lead designer at Images Jewelers, Steve’s work is defined by symmetry, balance, and a mechanically inspired aesthetic. His expertise in gemstone selection and custom design continues to shape the company’s reputation for excellence.