Meet Bondeye Jewelry: Born courtside, now bejewelling the stars
Jess Klein, the New York-based founder of Bondeye Jewelry, has one of the more unexpected origin stories in fine jewellery. She grew up surrounded by sports, studied Sport Management at the University of Michigan, worked at a sports agency in Australia, and then for the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team in Wisconsin.
But throughout all of it, her passion for jewellery was constantly present, and eventually, became a passion she couldn’t ignore.
Since Jess took the first steps towards founding Bondeye Jewelry in 2017, the New York-based brand has developed into a well-established, joyful and personal brand for anyone who isn’t afraid to make a statement.
Celebrities such as Zendaya, Michelle Pfeiffer, Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift have worn Bondeye on and off the red carpet - and Jess Klein is only getting started. We asked Jess all the questions we have about the start of Bondeye, where she is now, and where she is going next.
You came to jewellery from a career in professional sports. How did that happen?
"I grew up surrounded by sports, my family, my studies, and my first jobs all revolved around it. After graduating in Sport Management, I worked at a sports agency in Australia and then for the Milwaukee Bucks NBA team in Wisconsin.
But my love for jewelry was always there. I'd style friends, collect special pieces, and sketch ideas for fun. Living abroad gave me the push to take that hobby seriously, I started making costume pieces, then moved to working with 14k gold and gemstones. While living in Milwaukee, Bondeye's footprint began to grow, and I moved back to New York to pursue my passion full-time."
Where does a piece begin for you?
"Designing is the heart of Bondeye, it's why I started. My background wasn't in jewelry, so my process is intuitive, I design what I wish existed. There's always something a bit unexpected, something you haven't seen before, but still easy to wear."
How would you describe the DNA of the brand?
"Our DNA balances contrasts: classic and bold, delicate yet strong, timeless with an edge. We love asymmetry, texture, and color that makes you look twice. There's a touch of vintage charm in every design, but always with a fresh feel. Bondeye is jewelry meant to be passed on - up, down, and sideways - it's built to carry stories."
Is there a piece from your own collection you wear every day?
"Our Josie Ring - the first piece I ever made and still our best seller. I wear it every day, usually stacked with our Wave Rings. I never leave home without them."
Who do you design for?
"There's no single Bondeye customer , and I love that. Our pieces connect with all ages and styles, moms, daughters, grandmothers, partners, friends. It's jewelry that feels unisex, ageless, and made for anyone who wants to express themselves."
What does jewellery mean to the person wearing it?
"I started Bondeye out of a love for storytelling and connection — I wanted jewelry that sparks conversation and feels like it was made just for you. The best part is seeing our pieces find their people and how each client wears them in their own way. That connection is everything to me."
What's next for the brand?
"We're experimenting with innovative new designs - like magnets - that make our jewelry even easier to connect, stack, and style your way. This year is all about thoughtful growth, staying accessible, and taking creative risks we're excited about."
What do you dream about?
"I dream of building a legacy brand, one that connects generations and feels special decades from now. Jewelry that holds emotional value and becomes part of someone's story."
Jess Klein started with a sketch and a feeling that jewellery should be for everyone. She’s built Bondeye on this belief - and she’s only getting started. Her pieces, crafted in 14K gold with fine gemstones, are eye-catching and unlike any other designs we’ve seen.
We’re so pleased to have her join us in The Jewellery Room, and to get to be a part of her journey. Discover her full collection here.