Like many of his generation, an upbringing rooted in poverty could have meant a dismal life for Nelson, but, with a strong character and desire for success, Nelson turned disadvantage into motivation, taking odd jobs to help support his family. Unable to afford traditional schooling, he began an apprenticeship at an established jewelry store under a Shanghainese master goldsmith at the tender age of 11.

During that era, Shanghai master goldsmiths were some of most revered craftsmen in all of Asia. European settlement in Shanghai during the mid 1800's introduced new forms of jewelry and jewelry-making techniques to Asian craftsmen. With skills already sharp from China's rich history in jewelry, ...