The Philosophy

Designed with intention. Created on-on-one.

Jewellery should feel personal because it is personal. It’s worn close to the body, lived in daily, and becomes an extension of the person wearing it.

At West of Fourth, each piece is designed with this in mind, created one-on-one to reflect meaning, individuality, and intention rather than trends or mass production.

The Designer

West of Fourth is led by Melissa Mitchell, a Calgary-based custom jewellery designer with over a decade of experience in bespoke design and gemstone sourcing.

After years working within both traditional retail and private, design-led jewellery environments, Melissa saw firsthand the gaps in how custom pieces were often sold. West of Fourth was created as a more thoughtful alternative — one built around time, clarity, and collaboration rather than pressure or rushed decisions.

Her work is grounded in both hands-on design and technical expertise. Concepts often begin with hand-drawn pencil sketches, allowing ideas to develop organically before moving into refinement.

Melissa holds three diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America — Applied Jewellery Professional, Diamonds Graduate, and Coloured Stones Graduate — and is completing the final requirements toward Graduate Gemologist. This foundation allows clients to explore stones, materials, and design options with clear explanations and confident, informed guidance throughout the process.

A close-up photo of a woman with long, wavy brown hair, smiling, wearing a black turtleneck, with a neutral background.
Logo for GIA Alumni Collective Member

What It’s Like to Work Together

Every project at West of Fourth is treated as a collaboration. Clients are guided through design decisions with clarity and care, from stone selection to final details, ensuring the finished piece reflects both personal style and thoughtful design.

Consultations are relaxed and appointment-only, offering space to explore ideas, ask questions, and make decisions with confidence.

Location & Scope

Based in Calgary, West of Fourth works with clients locally and across Canada. In-person consultations are available at the Mount Royal studio, with virtual consultations offered for clients elsewhere.