Western Mokume was founded in the summer of 2020 by Lucas Gilbreth, a Colorado native and artist. His love for metalsmithing blossomed while attending Colorado State University in Fort Collins, where he still resides today with his wife and two dogs. Gilbreth's passion for working with metals was reinforced after an apprenticeship, during which he learned the intricate art of Mokume Gane.

Lucas's childhood in Colorado Springs, just a stone's throw away from the renowned sculptor Starr Kempf, played a pivotal role in his artistic journey. Gilbreth's interest in metalwork was sparked by Kempf's magnificent sculptures. After earning a BFA in Metals & Jewelry from Colorado State University in 2004, he initially pursued a teaching degree. However, a part-time job at a local jewelry store introduced him to the captivating world of Mokume Gane, setting him on his artistic path.

Since 2006, Lucas Gilbreth has been a part of Darvier Jewelry Design Studio, where he has honed his skills as a full-time bench jeweler. Here, he crafted his own designs and embarked on a unique journey of collaboration with customers. This approach allowed him to transform each client’s unique ideas into reality, a practice he continues to this day at Western Mokume.

Over the past 18 years, Gilbreth has specialized in custom wedding bands, while also creating pendants, bracelets, cuff links and various other Mokume creations, each distinct. He works directly with clients to customize one-of-a-kind pieces they will treasure for a lifetime, blending his expertise in Mokume Gane with their personal visions.