
Our Story
Core Values. Creative Vision. Community Roots.

Who We Are
About Alison
Born and raised in San Diego, Alison Smith’s lifelong love for art, animals, and design began early—pressed against jewelry store windows, mesmerized by glittering gemstones. That fascination led her to earn a BFA in Design from San Diego State University while working full-time at the San Diego Zoo.
After a decade supporting high-net-worth individuals and public figures—including Deepak Chopra—and becoming a certified meditation instructor, Alison felt a strong pull back to her first love: jewelry.
In 2019, she was awarded a full scholarship to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)—the world’s most prestigious gemological institution—where she earned a degree in Jewelry Design & Technology (JDT) and built global connections in the fine jewelry industry.
She later earned an additional accreditation as an Applied Jewelry Professional (AJP™) from GIA and gained valuable experience selling fine jewels for Neiman Marcus, as well as designing custom pieces for private jewelers using both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Now, LOBAS fulfills her lifelong dream—bringing together her love of jewelry, animals, and functional design into one dynamic, purpose-driven brand.

Cats of Oceanside
Beyond her passion for jewelry, Alison is a dedicated animal advocate. In 2022, she founded Cats of Oceanside, a nonprofit that supports the felines in her local community of Oceanside, California. A portion of each purchase from LOBAS helps support Cats of Oceanside’s mission to fill the gaps left by state-funded shelters, ensuring no cat is left behind.
What we value
Our V.I.B.E.
V.ERSATILITY
We design for real life. LOBAS pieces are made to move with you—effortlessly elevating whatever you’re wearing, wherever you’re going. From intuitive magnetic clasps to understated yet striking design, our jewelry is built to be lived in. Whether it’s your go-to essential or a statement piece, wear it whenever and however you choose—because your personal style should know no limits. Effortless. Intentional. Always distinct.
I.NTEGRITY
Jewelry is personal—so trust is everything. At LOBAS, we hold ourselves to the highest standard in craft, sourcing, and purpose. From the pieces we create to the causes we support, we believe one's integrity and the positive impact they make on those around them is the most lasting legacy.
B.EAUTY
At LOBAS, we see beauty as an act of love—one that honors form, feeling, and the human experience. Jewelry exists to capture emotion and meaning; our goal is to create and share pieces that bring joy, connection, and intention to the everyday.
E.DUCATION
At LOBAS, we believe personal style starts with personal knowledge. We love sharing how we source, design, and select materials—and we give you a look inside our own collections and what they mean to us. Whether it’s jewelry, fashion, or design history, we break it down in a way that’s clear, empowering, and actually fun. No gatekeeping and no gem snobs here.
Just a window into how we see the world—and the tools to trust your own eye.

Where we do what we do.