Meet the Team - Christopher Fine Diamonds

Chris and Kelly Uptain are the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind Christopher Fine Diamonds, a family-owned jewelry house that has become a driving force in the Arizona jewelry industry. Together, they blend artistry, innovation, and business expertise to create a brand known for exquisite craftsmanship, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional client experiences.

Chris Uptain, president and namesake of Christopher Fine Diamonds, is a master jeweler with over 35 years of experience. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and contemporary creative style, Chris has earned the trust of clients across the country for more than two decades. His skills span from traditional bench work to advanced CAD design, allowing him to bring both digital renderings and hand-crafted masterpieces to life. Every custom creation that leaves CFD carries Chris’s personal stamp of approval.

Kelly Uptain is the visionary driving the systems and growth of the company. With a Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Oklahoma, Kelly has owned her own insurance brokerage since 1999 and brings a wealth of business acumen to CFD. She spearheads the implementation of new systems, the development of the in-house CAD design department, the launch of AI-driven jewelry design technology, and oversees the brand’s website and SEO strategy. Her leadership ensures that the creative artistry at CFD is matched with efficiency, innovation, and scalability.

Outside the showroom, Chris and Kelly share a passion for real estate investing and love traveling with their blended family. Chris enjoys spending time with his son, Bo, as well as tinkering with computers and building projects, while Kelly treasures raising her three daughters. Together, they are not only shaping the future of Christopher Fine Diamonds but also building a legacy rooted in family, creativity, and innovation.

Introducing Derek, our Graduate Gemologist and General Manager. A 12th-generation jeweler on his Father’s Side of the family, and a 4th-generation on his mother’s side. Derek brings a lifelong dedication to the art and business of fine jewelry. Raised in the esteemed Molina Fine Jewelers family under the guidance of his parents, Al and Lisa Molina, Derek developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, quality, and service from an early age. He went on to earn the prestigious Graduate Gemologist designation from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), One of the highest professional credentials in the field.
As General Manager, Derek is recognized for his exceptional expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. He is equally known for his warm demeanor, genuine character, and signature charm--- qualities that continue to endear him to clients and colleagues alike.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Derek enjoys spending time with his wife, Jazmine, and their son, affectionately referred to as “Little Derek.” A frequent presence in the store on Saturdays, Little Derek is already showing signs of following in the proud Molina family tradition.

Meet Danielle, our Sr Sales Associate and Lead Jewelry Designer. With over 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and precision to everything she does.

"Danie", as she is affectionately referred to by her clients, is known for her exceptional attention to detail, meticulously inspecting every piece, from the most intricate designs to the smallest repairs, ensuring perfection before it leaves our store.

When she's not wowing customers with her expertise, you'll find her embracing the great outdoors, whether its hiking, yoga, or any adventure in nature. Danie's passion for excellence shines in every aspect of her work, every single day.

Meet Joseph, our newest Jr. Sales Associate. He is the newest member of Christopher Fine Diamonds and has been learning the craft from the great jewelers that we have. He is our on-site CAD Designer, sitting down with clients and building the 3D models with them.
Joe is currently serving as a Sergeant in the United States Army Reserves and has learned many technical and communicative skills through his time in the military, and college to help his clients find the best piece of jewelry for them.

When he is not assisting clients, Joe can be seen attending sports games (Go Rams and Angels!), camping in the forest, or at his favorite scuba diving shop planning his next dive.