KENNY PHILLIPS, GIA GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST

A legacy of four generations and over four decades in the estate jewelry industry.

My passion lies in discovering exquisite estate jewelry—high-quality, distinctive, and enduring works of wearable art that beautifully encapsulate an individual’s unique style and personality.

In 1980, Kenny Phillips graduated from the Gemological Institute of America in New York City and began working in his family’s Charles Kaufman Enterprises estate jewelry business in Miami. Under the expert guidance of his legendary grandfather, Choo Choo Kaufman, and uncle, Donald Kaufman, he learned the importance of building trustful relationships with his clients and providing quality jewelry at a great price.

In 1998, Kenny founded K. Phillips & Co., Inc., based in Miami, Florida, and in 2000, he founded a DBA, KP Gems, based in Austin, Texas. In 2024He continues the family tradition by providing clients access to unique gems and concierge-level service at wholesale prices from his office in Austin.

Kenny regularly participates in reputable estate jewelry events, such as The Original Miami Beach Antique Show and the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show.

He specializes in pre-owned jewelry from the Victorian to Mid-Century eras. He is passionate about finding and offering enduringly beautiful pieces, including those crafted by iconic jewelers such as Cartier, Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, and Tiffany.


REVIEWS

He is one of the most professional, knowledgeable, experienced and honest Jewlers around. He has been in the business for many years and is a delight to work with. His pieces are beautiful and Stunning.

Andi, Miami, FL

I’ve known Kenny Phillips for 20 years, and whenever I’ve had a need to buy jewelry, whether a Rolex watch or a diamond ring, I’ve always been thrilled to have Kenny’s help. He’s even helped my sister sell her unworn jewelry and had a Cartier bracelet that I had inherited and resized to wear. I am confident that Kenny will always help me regardless of my jewelry needs.

Jim, Sunny Isles, FL

I had several rings and other jewelry from my Mom’s estate that I learned about and sold at a very fair price at KP Gems. Kenny and Michael were wonderful to work with. Thank you for an enjoyable experience. Highly recommend.

Diane, South Austin, TX

Kenny is the absolute best! I have been buying from Kenny for as long as I can remember – he knows my taste, has the best pieces (most beautiful on both the estate and modern fronts!), and helps me identify the best value. His connections in the industry run deep, and if he doesn’t have what I am looking for, he is already on it to find the piece elsewhere, or we’ll begin discussing how we can make it ourselves. Kenny will go the extra mile for his clients to ensure they are beyond happy with their new sparkle. Not only will I continue to buy from Kenny, but I now sell to him as well. He is fair and always such a pleasure to work with!!

Kirby, Chicago, IL

Kenny is not only kind, courteous, and extremely professional but also genuine, proactive, and thoughtful. He created an amazing wedding band set for my wife, including a 1920s filigree band with flawless diamond settings. Kenny constantly exceeds expectations and is my 1st choice for future jewelry purchases.

Eric, Irvine, CA

I‘m so impressed with KP Gems. Kenny helped my family go through all of our family’s belongings from many generations. Besides being extremely knowledgeable, he is personable, patient, funny and reasonable. It’s not easy going through family heirlooms, but Kenny made our experience a very good one. Thank you for everything you’ve done to help this go so smoothly.

Carole, Plainview, NY

I have known Kenny Phillips since 1995 and have purchased many custom rings, diamond bracelets, and necklaces from him over the years, as well as hosted gold parties with him. Kenny has always helped me and my friends create or find the right piece for any occasion. I count on him to be able to find the perfect treasure and I’m always thrilled with what I get for the price. I trust his guidance completely. It’s always a pleasure to do business with Kenny.

Sharon, Houston, TX

We have always relied on Kenny Phillips for our jewelry needs, including our most important pieces – our wedding bands, which he created to suit our wishes. Kenny is a consummate professional. He has always been responsive and provided the highest quality both in product and in service. We wouldn’t think of going anywhere else for jewelry!

Ed, Ft Lauderdale, FL

Not only does Kenny have an unequivocal selection of beautiful jewelry, but he also can create whatever his clients request of him. His work is done promptly and professionally, and the greatest part is that he meets you wherever you want him to. My entire family enjoys working with Kenny -in fact, he recently took a diamond I owned and created a masterpiece engagement ring for my daughter. She and her husband were thrilled — what more could a mother ask for?

Fayanne, Miami, FL

Since meeting Kenny Phillips in 2001, I’ve been consistently impressed with the unparalleled craftsmanship, personalized service, and trustworthiness that KP Gems Jeweler embodies. Every piece of jewelry from KP Gems is not just a purchase but a masterpiece of art, reflecting Kenny’s passion and expertise. His transparency, fairness, and genuine connection with his customers set him apart. The integrity and dedication Kenny brings to his work have made me a loyal customer for over two decades, and I wholeheartedly recommend KP Gems to anyone seeking exquisite, timeless jewelry with a personal touch.

Silvia, Miami, FL

Kenny was so kind and helpful when helping my son design an engagement ring for his now wife! The ring was perfect in every way! Couldn’t ask for a better jeweler!

Melynda, Huntsville, AL

Our family has enjoyed buying our jewelry exclusively from Kenny Phillips for over 20 years. As a jewelry novice, it is comforting to know that when making such important and emotional purchases, you have someone who has the integrity and professionalism as Kenny does to guide you through the process. With Kenny’s help, we have purchased and created jewelry that will be enjoyed and cherished for generations.

Ralph, Beaver Creek, CO

My experience at KP Gems was wonderful from the moment that I met Kenny. He was kind and patient and took the time to understand exactly what I was looking for in a piece.
If you’re looking for exceptional service, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and affordable prices, I strongly encourage you to contact Kenny at KP Gems. I will certainly be referring all of my family and friends!

Erin, Austin , TX

Our family has been doing business with Kenny and KPGems for almost 40 years. We can’t say enough about his expertise and creativity. He really knows his clients likes and dislikes and we have bought many pieces from him as well as custom designs. He treats all of his clients, no matter how big or small, with respect and honesty. Everyone we’ve referred to him has been as happy as we are.

Debbie, Vail, CO

I was so excited to visit KP Gems’ new location. Beautiful jewelry and a welcoming atmosphere. Kenny is an expert in his field, incredibly knowledgeable, and extremely honest. If you are tired of mass-produced jewelry, look no further. You will definitely discover something truly special. I saw a stunning bracelet that I haven’t seen anywhere else. KP Gems is a treasure for jewelry enthusiasts.

Jill, New York City, NY

Kenny was absolutely amazing! He’s been doing this for 40+ years and you can tell! His super friendly demeanor and high energy really makes you feel welcome. He was super knowledgeable on the rings I wanted to sell and gave me more information on how to keep my current rings clean and make them last longer. I went to multiple stores trying to sell my rings and KP Gems was the ONLY store to take the time to examine, clean, and verify the diamonds before giving me an offer (which was at least $100 over everywhere else) and still have me enjoy the process. If you need a reliable, fun, and affordable jeweler KP gems is 100% the way to go! I even took a few cards just to be able to recommend my friends to him!

Kennedy, Austin TX

I have been working with Kenny for years and wouldn’t trust anyone else to buy from (or sell to)! Besides being great at what he does, he’s a true mensch.

Robin, Aventura, Florida

Kenny is a pleasure to deal with and provides honest advice and white glove service. I have purchased several jewelry items from him, and the process was very smooth from the beginning of the selection and design to the after-purchase process, like getting the correct paperwork to my insurance company! Strongly recommended.

Cherie, NYC, NY

To say that I am a fan of KP Gems is an understatement! Each time I have gone to them to get a new favorite ring, it felt like a collaboration. In between the undivided attention and fast turnaround, Kenny and Mike have become friends! They designed my wedding rings, and then I went back for more (which I’ll be doing again soon), and then again! I highly endorse and sing praises to KP Gems.

Andre, Los Angeles, CA

Best jeweler in town!

Tommy, Lakeway, Texas

My experience with Kenny, owner of KPGems, was excellent! Kenny has a lifetime of experience in the jewelry business. He was personable, professional, and compassionate as he determined the condition and value of my bags of old jewelry, some of which had belonged to my mother. Kenny made a very good offer that I accepted immediately. Clean out your jewelry box and see Kenny for a positive experience and a fair offer!

Donna, Austin TX

I can always find that special one-of-a-kind gift at KP Gems. Look no further.

Shari, Miami Beach, Florida

Kenny was amazing and so helpful, will always come to KP for all my needs!

Nico,

Kenny assisted me in purchasing a great deal of estate jewelry. He was so kind and a joy to work with. I received top dollar and encourage everyone to visit his store. I am completely satisfied!!

Susan, Austin TX

When it comes to quality of service, experience, and fair pricing, Kenny goes above and beyond! He was super professional and knowledgeable when it came to selling my gold and diamond bracelets. He gave me a more than fair price and the whole experience was very enjoyable. From now on, I will only go to KP Gems and I will recommend everyone I know to go to him!

Izzy, Austin TX

When considering estate pieces or diamonds, we have to trust someone. Kenny is the only one we truly trust, and he always finds just the right piece at the right price. His exquisite taste, professionalism, and positive energy take the fear out of every investment we make. We treasure our heirlooms and look forward to passing them down to our family.

Michael, Parkland, FL

You won’t be disappointed trusting Kenny with your jewelry needs!

Ben, Chicago, Illinois

I’ve been dealing with Kenny for years and have been extremely happy with every experience. I look forward to using him as my jeweler for as long as I am in the market for anything new.

Tracey, North Miami, Florida

We love KP Gems and our entire family goes to them for all our family occasions. We have known Kenny for years and he is always helpful and knowledgeable. 5 Stars all the way!

Amy, Westlake Village, CA

Kenny Phillips is a consummate professional who is straightforward and knowledgeable. He was my first choice when I decided to sell my jewelry and downsize my lifestyle. When I tell my friends about selling my jewelry, they are shocked and then intrigued. No one I know knows anyone to help them do this. I have confidence in Kenny in all matters pertaining to the buying and selling of jewelry.

Naomi, Houston, TX

Kenny, from the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank you for your time and dedication to creating our rings and also my engagement ring! Words truly cannot express how thankful we are for your creation of the most sentimental jewelry for us that we will forever have and hold!

Jared & Jackie, Long Beach, NY

I was recommended to contact Kenny of KP Gems when I was looking to buy an engagement ring. Kenny provided me with many options. He is very knowledgeable and helped me find the perfect ring. I was very pleased with the process and outcome. I would recommend KP Gems to my family and friends.

Steve, Newton MA

They have the most extraordinary pieces. Kenny is so knowledgeable and such a pleasure to work with. I purchase all my jewelry from them.

Nina - Ft. Lauderdale

How did I get so lucky?! My ring is a stunner. And Kenny was a gem.

Robin - Miami Beach

Kenny has been my jeweler for 40 years. The reason boils down to one thing: trust. As with any professional, trust is integral for a successful relationship. Kenny not only found the perfect pear-shaped diamond ring for my first trip to the altar but also found the perfect diamond for my second wedding band. The amazing thing is that during all these years, we have never lived in the same city. I trust Kenny not only to choose the perfect diamonds based on my specifications but also to transact business safely and securely. Needless to say, Kenny is my jeweler for life.

Eileen, Fernandino Beach, FL

My wife purchased the most beautiful diamond solitaire ring from Kenny. The experience was easy from head to toe, and I appreciate Kenny’s professionalism and expertise. Thank you Kenny! Looking forward to my next purchase.

Andrew, Weston, FL

Kenny is most professional and attentive to your jewelry needs! He is wonderful to work with!

John, Edwards, Colorado

Kenny’s knowledge, professionalism and jewelry are absolutely the highest quality. His prices are amazing and he is truly a pleasure to work with. For many years now, my husband and I have relied on Kenny for all our jewelry needs. We feel confident in referring all our friends and family to him!

Virginia, Pensacola FL

Kenny is a very stylish jeweler. He has beautiful jewelry to sell in antique and modern styles. He’s very easy to work with and always guides me in the right direction so I can enjoy the pieces I choose from him!

Judi

I have done business with KP Gems for many years, and the transactions have always been smooth. He is a very kind and courteous person to deal with, regardless of the amount.

Jeff - Aventura, FL

I recently had the pleasure of selling gold jewelry to Kenny of KP Gems and it was such a great experience from start to finish. Kenny was so knowledgeable and patient to answer all my questions. He was fair and honest every step of the way and gave me a great price. I look forward to working with Kenny, of KP Gems again.

Douglas, Austin TX

I highly recommend Kenny and the team for honesty, integrity, and transparency for all your jewelry transactions. I have purchased numerous unique pieces for the special people in my life, and he also helped me sell items I wanted to upgrade. I have been working with KP for over 15 years. I’m confident you will have a great experience also.

Marshall, South Miami, FL