Winter 2023

C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 137 Photos: Kelli Uldall Upon entering Kocek Jeweler, Inc., in a display case to the right, a collection of notable pieces designed by Kocek are on display. They chronicle his career, from his earliest pieces to some of his most notable works. Carlos and moved into the space Kocek Jeweler, Inc. occupies to this day. Business was—and is—good, due to several factors. First is Kocek’s natural, genuine charm and obvious love of people. But no business can succeed for half a century on personality alone. It’s the exquisite jewelry designs this master jeweler creates that has brought him a following of clients that now spans generations. This is a man who was clearly born to be a jewelry designer. “In addition to being my liveli- hood, this is my hobby,” Kocek says. “It makes me comfortable. Some people go to psychia- trists, I design jewelry. It’s therapy to me and always has been.” Next to the shop’s front door is a special showcase Kocek calls his “museum.” On display are pieces he considers to be significant in his artistic development and career, beginning with a ring he made for his mother in 1959, when he was 15. Also on display are several masterfully drawn pencil sketches on vellum of jewelry pieces. From these drawings, it’s clear that Kocek could also be a fine artist, if he chose to pursue that avenue. Also in the case are a pair of California grizzly bear cuff links. This design has historical significance; an identical pair were on President Ronald Reagan’s wrists during the assassination attempt in March 1981. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger also pur- (Left) When President Reagan lost a cuff link during an assassination attempt, Kocek was called upon to make a replacement. (Right) These handsome brooches were designed by Kocek at age 17, and were kept and treas- ured by his former employer for decades.