While it might be difficult to imagine starting a new business venture in the midst of an economic crisis—Gold & Citrus has grown thanks to two entrepreneurs with roots in Baltimore.

The jewelery company is the brainchild of MICA alumni Richard Combs and Sara Rossbach. Based in downtown San Francisco, Rossbach describes their jewelry as “about luxury, fun and versatility. The pieces can be worn with anything from jeans and a t-shirt to a cocktail dress, and some take the concept of versatility even a step further and can be worn in multiple positions.”

So why begin a business now, of all times? “Living and working in San Francisco, there is just this entrepreneurial spirit in the air that we have grabbed onto,” explains Combs.

According to Rossbach, it was only a matter of time. “Through high school and college it felt like we were always coming up with new business plans. Everything from screen-printing t-shirts, to buying old lamps and things from thrift stores and refurbishing them.”

And what better way to stimulate the economy than investing in it? “Looking back to the great depression, I think we can be thankful for those who started businesses through such economic strain,” says Combs, “Although these current economic times are not nearly as strenuous, we hope the launch of our new company will make a contribution, no matter how small it may be, to the healing of our economy.”

Gold & Citrus’s first line, “We’re Golden” is unique. From traditional beaded and gemstone infused pieces to the more experimental (feathers and studs and sequins, oh my!), Combs and Rossbach’s creations echo their chic and innovative style.

“The name Gold & Citrus breaks down into the character that we envision for the brand,” says Combs. “Simply put, it is luxury and fun.”

Rossbach, on the other hand, reveals a deeper meaning behind the name. “The citrus also has personal meaning for us. Conceptually, the citrus fruit is divided into three parts: the skin, the fruit, and the seed. The skin plays the same role as a piece of jewelry or a piece of clothing. It is a layer of protection shouting out to the world who you are and what you are all about. The fruit hides away underneath, and may or not be about the same things as the skin, but that is who you really are. The seeds are what last forever. Once the fruit is gone, the seeds go on and create. The seed is your soul.”

You can check out Gold & Citrus’s designs or read Richard Combs and Sara Rossbach’s blog, at goldandcitrus.com.

—Rebecca Gregg