Kinley Jewelry

Kinley Jewelry is a small handmade jewelry and décor business owned by Chris McKinley, SIU Grad ‘95. While studying Forestry, Ecology and Outdoor Recreation, McKinley become intimately acquainted with The Shawnee National Forest and the beautiful natural surroundings of Southern Illinois, She fell in love and never left !

After graduating, McKinley wrote a weekly column about Southern Illinois’ rich outdoor recreational opportunities and still spends as much time as possible in the forest, hiking, camping, on a lake in her kayak and dabbling in photography.

“I grew up in Central Illinois surrounded by flat land and crops, so when I visited Southern Illinois for the first time and went to Giant City State Park, I was floored ! I knew I wanted to live here.” 

The influence of nature is apparent in her jewelry designs with common themes like mushrooms, flowers, leaves, animals, moons and suns. “I have always been a crafter and loved jewelry, so it just makes sense to incorporate all of these interests into one. I’m also a rock nerd, so I really enjoy using different stones in my designs like quartz , moonstone and fluorite, to name a few. I even make magnets from ammonite fossil impressions. “

Kinley Jewelry offers seasonal collections of Earrings, Bracelets, Necklaces and Anklets, as well as Charmed Tea Infusers, Sun Catchers and Magnets. McKinley makes everything by hand in her Carbondale home studio and sells her brand at local shops as well as online through her website www.kinleyjewelry.com. You can also catch her at an occasional festival vending her wares.

Kinley Jewelry is proud to be a Southern Illinois small business owner and loves to be involved in the local music and art scene as well. Being a radio DJ at WDBX for over 25 years and the Art Curator for Booby’s also keeps her busy.

“Thank you for looking at my creations. I put my heart and soul into my business and I hope you find something you like. People have been adorning themselves with jewels for centuries and I think it’s a lovely way to express yourself and let people know who you are.”

- Chris McKinley