A Gemstone in Houston

By Fatima Ramos

Christina McAllen is the owner of Christina Greene jewelry store in Houston. Before opening her store, she designed jewelry as a hobby during college. McAllen began her college career studying interior design at TCU. However, she transferred to public relations and marketing. During this time, she began to design bracelets and necklaces with wire wrap and stones. Realizing this was her passion, McAllen returned to school in New York to study design and fashion. Once she graduated with her master’s degree, she moved to Houston, where she started her jewelry business and opened a jewelry store.

McAllen has various collections in her store. Two years ago, during her personal wedding planning, she created an exclusive Bridal collection. McAllen personally crafted the “Elli earrings,” after one of her bridesmaids, a beautiful teardrop crystal flower with three cascading crystals shaped like a teardrop. A few items in the Bridal collection were later changed, like the “Christina earrings,” where she added blue sapphire.

All the pieces in the Bridal collection are a nod to family and friends in attendance on her big day. For example, McAllen named the “McAllen bracelet” after her new last name. Other collection items have a story from a person or trip. The Gingko collection, for example, was inspired by her trip to Thailand. Different people and travels influence McAllen’s creations.

McAllen also believes in giving back. As a Houston Rodeo volunteer and exhibitor, she loves the mission to support Houston’s youth. Her first booth was the smallest size available and as her business has grown, so has her presence at the Houston tradition. To raise funds after Hurricane Harvey, McAllen sketched a Texas necklace as a tribute. She designed a gold Texas plate with a small turquoise stone representing Houston and its strength as a city.

When Inside Houston Magazine asked her about her favorite designs, Christina found it hard to choose a favorite as she has many. Nonetheless, she picked the squash blossom as one of her favorites.

In addition to jewelry, McAllen also sells clothing, purses, and other fashionwear. Located at Rice Village, near Rice University, McAllen has a few expectations when a visitor comes to her store, a great shopping experience. Follow her on her website www. christina-greene.com