About Us
CRASH Jewelry began with a simple question: What if the story of a car didn't end when the car did?
Founded in Los Angeles by designer Christi Schimpke, CRASH transforms authentic metal from modern luxury vehicles into collectible jewelry — preserving the original factory paint and honoring each car's history through craftsmanship.
Every piece starts with real automotive material sourced from late-model Ferrari, Porsche, Aston Martin, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and more. The metal is then hand-formed in our Los Angeles studio using a proprietary process that protects the original finish — allowing each piece to retain the color, texture, and soul of the car it came from.
To complete the story, every design arrives with a CRASH Registration Card — a certificate of provenance documenting the original vehicle and serving as proof of authenticity, like a VIN for your jewelry.
CRASH pieces are not accessories. They are conversation starters. They are collectibles. They are a way to wear craftsmanship, history, and design in a form that is both modern and timeless.
Today, CRASH is worn by collectors, automotive enthusiasts, and design-conscious individuals around the world — and trusted by corporate partners who seek gifts with meaning, rarity, and impact.
What we create is not just jewelry. It is a story you carry with you.
Our Process
Every piece of CRASH Jewelry begins with metal sourced from the doors, hoods, fenders, or quarter panels of luxury cars that are being replaced, including brands such as Rolls-Royce, Maserati, Audi, Mercedes, and Porsche. We carefully cut the metal into various shapes and styles, which we then rigorously sand, polish, and rivet.
To enhance our original designs, we often incorporate stainless steel from the wheel surround of a Mercedes G Wagon, giving it a distinctive hammered texture. Some designs may also include semi-precious gemstones or vintage components. Additionally, we've developed a technique using a laser engraver that vaporizes the original paint, leaving behind bare metal in certain areas. This process creates precise details that contrast the factory paint with the silver steel or aluminum.
CRASH is the sole source for this innovative jewelry—each piece is truly original. The final step in our process is to perform a last polish with detail spray before the pieces are sent to customers. All of our jewelry is completely handcrafted by artisans in our studio, located in a Los Angeles body shop.
100% Made in the USA
Our products are handcrafted by artisans in Los Angeles, CA, USA, who have a passion for nice cars. Each CRASH Jewelry order is delivered in quality recycled gift boxes featuring our signature CRASH logo. Inside the box, you will find your jewelry carefully wrapped in a soft satin or muslin bag, accompanied by a CRASH Jewelry Registration Card. Our jewelry is made from either aluminum or steel alloy, depending on the car and the specific part it originated from, such as a door or a hood.
All paint used is original factory paint.
"I love that Christi Schimpke can see beauty in a slab of wrecked metal. Her imagination and craftsmanship are extraordinary. I have several CRASH cuffs, a pair of crash hoop earrings, and even got a his and hers pair of CRASH rings. And out of all the things I have given him over the years, my man wears his crash cuff and crash ring the most! Her pieces are unique and make a statement: be prepared to chat if you wear them. People always inquire, introverts be forewarned!"
— Kelly Colbert

