Our Story

Courtney Peterson’s journey began in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans in the 1960s, where she crafted and sold jewelry inspired by the natural world. In 1970, she was among the first artists to showcase her work at the inaugural New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in Congo Square—a true testament to her deep roots in the region’s rich culture.

By the 1980s, Courtney had dedicated herself full-time to jewelry making, presenting her creations at prestigious events like the Philadelphia Flower Show and the Devon Horse Show. As her business grew, she and her partner, Lee Peterson, found inspiration in the Pennsylvania countryside. They transformed a historic farm’s barn into a bustling studio, where up to 18 artisans brought nature-inspired designs to life.

Lee, a naturalist and author of the Peterson Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants, brought a unique perspective to their craft. His expertise introduced natural gemstones into Courtney’s collections, elevating their fine art and abstract pieces with elegant authenticity. Influenced by Lee’s father, Roger Tory Peterson—famed for his field guides—their work honors the precision and beauty of the natural world. Together, Courtney and Lee, both master gardeners, built lasting connections in the artisan community, celebrated for the inventive hand-shaping and intricate patterns that make each piece uniquely alive.

Today, the family legacy flourishes as Courtney’s daughter, Margaret Miller, carries the torch from her home in New Orleans’ Treme neighborhood. Alongside Margaret are Mary Hunt and Sarah Chesnutt, lifelong friends who have been lovingly embraced as part of the family. Sarah focuses on design, consumer education and marketing efforts expanding Courtney Design’s presence with pop-ups across the western United States. Mary serves as the lead benchworker as well as designer, expertly crafting each creation. Together, they continue to use natural gemstones, sterling silver, and 14k gold—along with the skills passed down by Courtney over the years.

Courtney remains the creative heart of the studio, crafting special pieces and guiding the next generation, while Lee offers his wisdom as artist and business consultant. Margaret, as CEO and director, is passionate about growing the brand’s Louisiana roots and sharing its story nationwide.

Margaret is enthusiastic to have the business back home., “Growing up alongside Courtney, I witnessed firsthand her extraordinary talent for transforming simple metals into living art. Our collection celebrates timeless designs inspired by South Louisiana’s wildlife—herons, crabs, dragonflies—and playful creations like the Big Shot Bunny sipping a martini or a Tea-Cup Chihuahua inspired by Bunny Matthews. Our jewelry is made for collectors who cherish handcrafted art, a love of nature, and a touch of whimsy. We’re committed to keeping the spirit of Courtney & Lee alive, creating unique, meaningful pieces that bring people together through a shared passion for art and the natural world.”



In order left to right...
Margaret, Mary, Courtney and Lee at New Orleans Jazz Fest's 50th anniversary.