Maria Ress, founder and designer of Kastel Jewelry, believes that jewelry is a reflection of our individual spirit—an intimate expression of personality, memory, and meaning. Apprenticing at a young age in her birthplace of Greece, she developed a foundation rooted in old-world craftsmanship and storytelling. This heritage, paired with her instinct for bold design, informs creations meant to tap into your inner strength and make you feel powerful.

Founded in 2010, Kastel Jewelry emerged with a clear vision: to empower, adorn, and express. The collection is daring—celebrating rich color, luminous gold, and sculptural forms that transcend the boundaries typically placed on adornment. Unbound by trends or convention, Kastel pieces are designed to be deeply personal, to make an impact on how you feel, and to inspire joy and connection.

Maria Ress, a gemologist and acclaimed designer, personally envisions every piece and hand-selects each gemstone. Her signature lies in her storytelling—scenic pendants, narrative details, and one-of-a-kind creations that speak to collectors of all ages.

Rooted in the cultural richness of Greece and shaped by her life in Chicago, Maria’s aesthetic blends timeless tradition with modern refinement. Kastel Jewelry is meant to be worn, lived in, and eventually passed down. First introduced at Neiman Marcus, the line continues to captivate women with discerning taste. Through every collection, Maria remains committed to creating jewelry that is authentic, powerful, and crafted from natural beauty—pieces that give her clients the confidence to move boldly through the world.