About Elkhorn Silver®

Chris Capkovic, artist and founder of Elkhorn Silver®

Chris Capkovic is an American artist, lapidarist, and inventor based in Missouri. His journey into lapidary and jewelry-making began with a powerful story passed down from his father, a WWII veteran who served in Burma.

Chris’s father, a member of the Army Air Corps glider infantry, was deployed deep into the Burmese jungle to support airfield construction during the war. While walking through a battlefield, he spotted a jade stone about the size of a softball. Drawn to it, he carried the jade with him throughout the war. After returning home, he had the stone slabbed and crafted into a ring for his wife—Chris’s mother.

WWII image of Joe Capkovic in Burma, in front of a U.S. Army tent

Years later, that same jade was passed down to Chris. The gift sparked a deep personal connection and ultimately inspired him to explore lapidary work and jewelry design. What began as a tribute to his father grew into a lifelong passion for transforming raw stone into meaningful art.

The original jade stone carried through Burma, cut into cabochons

Over the years, Chris has honed his skills through dedicated craftsmanship, eventually founding his own studio: Elkhorn Silver®. From one-of-a-kind gemstone pieces to the invention of the patented Elkhorn Silver® Jump Ring Cutting Jig, his work continues to blend precision, innovation, and heartfelt tradition.

Elkhorn Silver Jump Ring Cutting Jig

The jade—now affectionately known as “The Lucky Jade”—remains a symbol of heritage, creativity, and resilience. It carries the memory of Chris’s father and continues to inspire every piece he creates.

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Meet the Team

Chris and Kathy work together as a creative team — exploring new designs, cutting and polishing natural stones, and selecting only the best materials. Whether it’s jewelry or lapidary work, their mission is to deliver high-quality, handcrafted pieces that reflect both artistry and durability.

Chris and Kathy of Elkhorn Silver®