ABOUT US

Carmen was born and raised in Bucharest, Romania.. a bustling capital in Eastern Europe where old-world history meets modern resilience. Growing up there shaped her in countless ways: the culture, the traditions, and the challenges of living in a post-communist society instilled in her a strong sense of independence and determination. But deep down, she always knew her path would lead her somewhere far beyond the borders of her hometown.

At just 19 years old, Carmen took a leap of faith that would change her life forever. She moved to the United States. It wasn't an easy decision. Leaving behind her childhood home, her friends, and everything familiar meant stepping into the unknown with nothing but determination and hope.

"Growing up in a second-world country, I couldn't wait to create a new life overseas. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but also the most rewarding. I'm forever grateful I had family here to help me through the transition." – Carmen

The early years in the U.S. were full of challenges. Adjusting to a new culture, learning a new way of life, and building from scratch required resilience and grit. But those years also became a period of discovery. Carmen embraced every opportunity that came her way, driven by a desire to build a life that honored both where she came from and where she was going.

Before stepping into entrepreneurship, Carmen spent six years working in big tech within the autonomous self-driving vehicle industry, an experience that sharpened her discipline, problem-solving skills, and ability to thrive in fast-paced, cutting-edge environments. At the same time, she pursued an entirely different passion with equal intensity, becoming a professional bodybuilder: an achievement that speaks to her relentless work ethic and mental toughness.

But Carmen's path was never meant to follow a conventional script. After relocating to the Gaslamp district in San Diego, she made the bold decision to bet on herself and start her own business in 2023. It was there that she discovered permanent jewelry, a craft that immediately resonated with her. With a background in silversmithing, Carmen was uniquely positioned to merge technical skill with artistry, seamlessly integrating into the growing permanent jewelry community.

What sets Carmen apart is not just her talent, but the journey behind it, a rare combination of grit, reinvention, and creativity. Every piece she creates reflects that story: precision shaped by her technical background, artistry rooted in her craftsmanship, and a deeper meaning inspired by the risks she's taken to build a life entirely her own.

✨ Wear a Piece of the Story

Every Bijut piece is made with the same intention Carmen built this brand on: precision, meaning, and a little bit of magic. Shop the collection and wear something that was made to last.

✨ SHOP THE COLLECTION