My Life: David Iler

David Iler

Alchemy, Portland, OR

David Iler, a custom jeweler, goldsmith and stone-setter known for platinum casting, spends part of his days leaning over a counter with paper and pencil, sketching clients’ dreams into possibilities. But the heart of his store —named America’s Coolest Small Store in 2014 — is in the back, where Iler and company render those visions in precious metal. He takes pride in the fact he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.