During a debilitating crisis like COVID-19, the mere act of getting out of bed in the morning can present a unique challenge. It’s an important time to be particularly mindful of the positive light we can each bring to the world in our own unique way. On March 6th, just before COVID-19 surfaced as a dangerous, deadly virus, I had the good fortune to be invited by the UD Biden School to participate in their annual Women’s History Month Luncheon. Along with a group of impressive women who had each made their marks in their various careers, I served as an alumna mentor for a table of UD students with a Fashion Merchandising focus. Hip, intelligent young women- reminded me of my own college years at University of Delaware!
FIRST LADY, UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE
The Women’s History Month Luncheon began with a brief video welcome from Eleni Assanis, First Lady of the University of Delaware.
VICE-CHAIR OF THE BIDEN INSTITUTE AND FELLOW UD ALUMNA
Valerie Biden Owens, sister of Joe Biden and fellow UD Alumna, followed and offered heartfelt words about the importance of women in business and the unique perspective they bring to the table. Alumnae mentors were then invited to share one, “take-away” piece of advice.
I offered a Calvin Coolidge quote that my now-deceased and much beloved father shared with me over 25 years ago when I started my own art-inspired, sterling silver jewelry company. The quote is pinned to my bulletin board and reminds me daily of the power of persistence:
I had the honor to present Valerie Biden Owens with a sterling silver, UD Legacy Ring (udlegacyring.com) which I designed exclusively for the University of Delaware. This special ring features a spinning component which is the catalyst for UD Legacy Traditions, whose sole purpose is to generate connectivity and collaboration between UD students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni and friends of the University. Being the fashionista that she is, Valerie was thrilled and I sensed that her enthusiasm was genuine. My instincts were correct when I received a lovely thank you note from her several days later. I have received many thank you notes in my day, but Valerie’s was truly authentic. She wrote, “Your jewelry accurately reflects your spirit, grace and pure force. I promise you I will wear my Legacy Ring with gratitude to both the University and to you.” How cool is that?!
CYNTHIA GALE & VALERIE BIDEN OWENS
Valerie Biden Owens wasn’t the only one I had planned to gift a UD Legacy Ring to. Eleni Assanis, who was originally scheduled to attend and co-host the Luncheon in person, was unexpectedly called into an important meeting- I was sorry to miss her. The good news is that she will have a special surprise waiting for her at her UD office upon her return- Enjoy, Mrs. A!
University of Delaware Legacy Ring
A One Ring Program to Strengthen The Blue Hen Nation
FIGHTING COVID-19
As I’m sure many of you have all felt, as March progressed and my beloved Big Apple teetered on the COVID-19 edge, I wondered how Cynthia Gale New York could contribute in our own special way. We decided to run a fundraising campaign from April 1-15 where 20% of all cynthiagale.com sales would be donated to the NYC Health and Hospitals COVID-19 Relief Fund. Click here to learn more about the work of this amazing organization: Learn More
DONATION TO NYC H + H
On April 17th, CGNY donated $400. To NYC H + H. A BIG shout-out to our cynthiagale.com customers who supported our efforts! When making our online donation, the fact that CGNY was added to over 7000 individual NYC H + H donations was not lost on me. I was reminded of my firm belief that:
If everyone gives a little bit, big things can happen.
Today we received a thank you note from New York City Health and Hospitals. It reconfirmed CGNY’s resolve that philanthropy is a critical part of our company’s DNA. Whether spending time mentoring UD students or coordinating a cynthiagale.com fundraising campaign in support of COVID-19, giving back to the communities that resonate with us is essential.
FIGHTING COVID-19
As I’m sure many of you have all felt, as March progressed and my beloved Big Apple teetered on the COVID-
As our country faces the effects of COVID-19 and everyone pitches in to help in their own, unique way, it is fascinating to examine how Rock-and-Roll has historically contributed to America’s philanthropic spirit through the work of Bill Graham.
Just before New York City shut down in mid-March, I had the pleasure of visiting the NY Historical Society’s most recent exhibit: Bill Graham and the Rock and Roll Revolution. When this is all over and we get our lives back, this is a “must-see” for anyone and everyone who can make the trip!
Throughout history, Bill Graham not only paved a visionary career path for himself, but launched and grew iconic jam bands like the Grateful Dead through his work as a promoter. An important part of Graham’s legacy was his creation and coordination of large scale benefit concerts. As a Holocaust survivor, Graham recognized the need to provide for both local and global families and placed rock and roll music at the epicenter as a philanthropic force of greatness.
To honor and showcase his incredible journey, an exhibition starting in Los Angeles, CA and moving across the country to the New York Historical Society, was created- it is epic. The exhibit explores the 20th century’s monumental transformation through the eyes of Rock and Roll. Showcasing memorabilia and images from some of rock’s most symbolic moments, this musical, audio packed tour takes you through decades of musical history. The exhibit highlights bands such as the Rolling Stones and The Grateful Dead who credit Graham for his essential role in the creation of their successful careers.
The Grateful Dead, April 15, 1979 Publicity Photo Shoot.
The Grateful Dead, a band dear to CGNY and millions across the globe, worked closely with Graham on some of his most iconic, large scale benefit concerts. From Graham’s first-ever outdoor concert to benefit after-school funds canceled by a San Francisco school district, to his well-known benefit concert, Live Aid, on July 13, 1985 at the JFK Stadium, Philadelphia, PA, his philanthropic musical efforts were legendary. Although they missed Live Aid, the Grateful Dead was a band who was there to support many of Graham’s epic benefit concerts.
The Grateful Dead is honored and showcased throughout the Bill Graham Exhibit for their talented musical journey and all the good they’ve done for the world of rock. Be sure to stop into the N-YHS Museum Store where our official, Grateful Dead Sterling Silver Jewelry Collection is showcased with other exhibit memorabilia!
As we work to combat COVID-19, I am reminded of Graham’s monumental efforts to fight for and donate to both domestic and foreign causes. Here at Cynthia Gale New York, we will be donating 20% of online sales at www.cynthiagale.com for the first two weeks of April 2020 to NYC Health + Hospitals. NYC H+H is the largest public health care system in the nation, servicing more than one million New Yorkers annually in more than 70 patient care locations across the five boroughs, caring for all regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. Click here to learn more about what this amazing organization is doing: https://nychhc.networkforgood.com/
So if you’ve been holding back on purchasing that CGNY, Grateful Dead piece for yourself or someone special- buy now and help us to battle COVID-19 here at its epicenter in New York City! If everyone gives a little, great things can happen!!
]]>As consumers, we see hundreds of images everyday; but what makes a particular image stand out? This is a question I asked myself while planning the CGNY 2019 Summer Shoot. I narrowed it down to quality, creativity, and the creation of a new point of view.
Backstage at the shoot, we were fortunate to have talented contributors of all ages. Everyone came from different backgrounds and with distinctive skills while holding unique perspectives on what makes exceptional imagery. Both our photographer, Maciek Stepnik, and makeup artist, Agnes Barnat, are originally from Poland. Model Kat Murphy, was born in Russia and raised in Sweden. Our intern Jess Blanco, a senior at PACE University, has roots in Columbia coupled with a gift for taking flawless “behind the scenes” images. These diverse backgrounds and perspectives came together to enhance our interpretation of what makes jewelry come alive.
Hudson Yards, our chosen location, was also an integral piece of the “memorable photoshoot” puzzle. The distinct design of The Shed, The Vessel and the surrounding area meshed with fashion and jewelry to create a unique, memorable experience.
I’ve always maintained that it takes a village to raise a good jewelry design. In this case, it took a village to raise a memorable photo shoot. Enjoy our latest Cynthia Gale New York and Grateful Dead imagery everyone!
]]>Food… what better way to bring people together to bridge gaps, solve problems and really learn who people are? The Bread and Salt Between us is a story about food and love. For Holiday 2018, Glenn and I would like to share the gift of food and love with our CGNY Community. Read on…
For over 20 years, Glenn and I have been actively involved in Rutgers Church, our spiritual home on Manhattan’s Upper Westside. We were originally drawn to Rutgers through its unique, diverse community coupled with their desire to support the creation of a just, loving and peaceful world for all. The church has a long history of peace and social activism— something Glenn and I are extremely passionate about.
Our Pastor regularly discusses social issues and a few years ago, began to focus on the hardships of refugees fleeing from various regions of the world due to war and lack of resources. After some brain storming, the Rutgers Church Community formed the Refugee Task Force— a team of volunteers dedicated to plan and implement different strategies to can provide direct, hands-on aid to refugees and their families.
In 2016, the Refugee Task Force began sponsoring families that have been resettled by Church World Services in New Jersey. Church World Services is an organization that works with refugee families, helping them through immigration and helping them adapt to everyday life in the United States. The Church World Service invites different community and church organizations to take part in assisting refugee families. Part of their responsibility then becomes to arrange housing and support for displaced people.
Rutgers teamed up with the Church World Service and we were notified three weeks prior to our first family’s arrival. We scrambled to turn an unfurnished apartment in Jersey City, NJ into the Anjari’s cozy, new home. The task force sent out a list of supplies the family would need and together with the UWS community, Rutgers collected donations to make their new home really special. Church members cleaned and furnished the apartment, filling the refrigerator with fresh, Halal food. Rutgers members greeted the Anjari’s at the airport in winter 2016 with open arms, smiles and winter coats for their four children.
After six months of transitioning and settling into their new life, Mayada Anjari invited Rutgers Church staff and members to her home for dinner with her family. Growing up in the kitchen with her mother and sister, Mayada knew the culinary secrets necessary to create the perfect, delicious Syrian dishes! At the time, Mayada’s English was very limited, so food was her way of saying “thank you” to the community of friends who were helping her and her family to start a new life… as NEW AMERICANS!
Everyone LOVED Mayada’s cooking! As a way for Mayada to support her family with extra income, one of the dinner attendees suggested that Rutgers begin hosting fundraiser dinners featuring Mayada’s Syrian specialties. The Mayada and Friends Benefit Dinner Series was born!
Mayada would prepare the meals and members and friends of the Rutgers community purchased tickets. All proceeds earned were donated directly to the Anjari family. Glenn and I volunteered to serve at the dinners, meeting so many fantastic people and enjoying the various dishes Mayada created! It was fascinating to observe how food created a bridge, bringing the many dinner guests of different nationalities and cultures together. Mayada was giving us a piece of her Syrian home…in essence, a piece of herself. It was really special.
Several attendees at the Benefit Dinners worked in the fine food industry. They were so impressed with Mayada’s cooking that they formed a team and volunteered their time and talent to help produce a cookbook. The Bread and Salt Between Us started as a dream but slowly became a reality. Mayada worked closely with writer Jennifer Sit to create this beautiful cookbook filled with 40 mouth-watering Syrian recipes.
Each recipe is extremely special because there are short stories about why Mayada loves to create the dishes and why they are important to her. You can feel how much pride and love she puts into each and every step of the cooking process. The Bread and Salt Between Us was named as one of the Fall 2018 top picks by Food and Wine Magazine!
With the Holiday Season fast approaching, CGNY encourages you to gather around the table and celebrate the simple things in life. Invite your friends and family over and prepare a delicious Syrian meal for everyone- we’re offering COMPLIMENTARY, SIGNED COPIES of The Bread and Salt Between Us to customers spending $300. or more, plus a 20% Discount on your order of Cynthia Gale New York, Art Inspired Jewelry!! (*Note- Grateful Dead Jewelry items not included in this offer.)
Several years and many jewelry development projects later, Diana contacted me to inform me that she was leaving CMA. I was devastated but as the saying goes, when one door closes, another door opens. I soon learned that Diana was to be the new Product Developer at the renowned Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in downtown Cleveland- exciting!
With that single change, I entered into yet another cool phase of jewelry creation and Licensing. Diana charged me with the creation of several collections focused on the history and edgy adornment of Rock and Roll stars. What a trip it has been!
For the next several weeks, CGNY will be highlighting our Rock and Roll inspired collections through the celebration of a key group of female Rock and Roll icons via this Blog as well as our CGNY Social Media. These are some of the Rockstar Women whom I admire for their pioneering Rock and Roll music which has paved the way for more women to explore this exciting music genre: Joan Jett; Aretha Franklin; Grace Slick; Debbie Harry and Stevie Nicks.
In today’s society, women everywhere are rising up in an effort to do things differently— marching, protesting and organizing— much like these early Rockstar Women. So celebrate with us and enjoy our CGNY Rock and Roll Hall of Fame jewelry collections, inspired by the style and passion of early Rockstar Women and the music that brought them close to our hearts.
Joan Jett, the lead singer of The Runaways, is our first Rockstar Woman.
Jett epitomizes the edgy, look of the CGNY Rebel Punk Collection. At age 15, Jett’s raw vocals and tough adornments lead the band to fame through her rebellious, gritty determination.
Jett once said: “Other people will call me a rebel, but I just feel like I’m living my life and doing what I want to do. Sometimes people call that rebellion, especially when you’re a woman.”
Long live the REBEL in Joan Jett!!
The world lost an amazing singer and human being in the recent passing of Aretha Franklin. She was the first African American woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame.
Franklin had a close relationship with Dr. Martin Luther King and was an activist during the Civil Rights Movement, advocating for peaceful, civil disobedience. The CGNY Imagine Peace Collection expresses the call for peace through sterling silver jewelry design.
Winning 18 Grammy Awards over the span of her career, Franklin is the quintessential Rockstar Woman.
Grace Slick was a fixture in the 1960’s San Francisco Rock and Roll scene. As one of the lead singers for Jefferson Airplane, Slick was instrumental in the group’s image as the first psychedelic rock band.
Slick lived in the spirit of the mid-60’s and 70’s and was considered a pioneer of the hippy movement. Our Revolution Dove, Rock Hall collection featuring a women’s symbol created out of twisted vines accented with a peace dove motif, captures the mood of this iconic American period.
In 1996, Jefferson Airplane was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. CGNY celebrates Grace Slick as one of our Rock Star Women for her vital role in the history of Rock and Roll.
I adore Debbie Harry, the quintessential Rockstar Woman Punk! As lead singer for the New Wave band, Blondie, Harry was known for her fierce attitude and iconic punk style.
Harry once said, “The only place left for rock to go is toward more girl stars. There’s nothing left for men to do.” Known for her black leather jackets, distressed denim and berets, Harry is an inspiration for CGNY’s Punk Explosion Collection which was created for the Rock Hall.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, Blondie’s Debbie Harry is a Rockstar Woman, for sure!
“Don’t be a lady. Be a legend." This was the goal of Rockstar, Stevie Nicks. Best known for her work as a songwriter and vocalist with Fleetwood Mac and her chart-topping solo career, Nicks is our final Rockstar Woman.
Nicks was named one of the Greatest Singers of All Time by Rolling Stone Magazine because of her distinctive voice, mystical stage persona and poetic, symbolic lyrics. The CGNY Rockstar Collection celebrates Nicks rise to stardom!
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, Stevie Nicks symbolizes our 5th and final Rockstar Woman- Rock On!
]]>One faith tradition which particularly resonated with me was Buddhism. One of the oldest and most valued Buddhist motifs is the Dharmachakra “Wheel of Transformation”. The Dharma Wheel is used to represent Buddhism in the same way that a cross represents Christianity or a Star of David represents Judaism. This symbol is significant for the path to enlightenment and a meditative life.
The spinning motion of the Dharma Wheel is a metaphor for renewal and change. The overall circular shape, the chakra represents the perfection of the dharma. The hub stands for discipline and the essential core of meditation practice. The rim refers to mindfulness and is connected to the spokes. Each of the spokes represents various Buddhist values and meanings.
The Cynthia Gale New York, Dharmachakra Collection is a Western interpretation of the Wheel of Transformation. When designing this collection, I wanted to incorporate all of these factors into a modern, wearable, often MOVEABLE collection of memorable sterling silver jewelry.
Recently, I met up with Keith Pollick, an old friend from my days on 7th Avenue. Keith and I met each other at one of my first jobs after college when I worked for fashion designers, Rebecca Moses and Andrea Jovine. He is a talented NYC fashion stylist, so when we get together it is nothing but good fun, laughs, and creative inspiration! I am a huge fan of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but hadn’t had a chance to see the Anna Wintour Costume Exhibit’s new collection- Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination. Sooo, Keith and I played hooky one Monday went on a fashion adventure together!!
The Heavenly Bodies exhibit explores the relationship between fashion and the Catholic religion. The exhibit consists of ecclesiastical garments shown in conjunction with clothing and accessories created by leading couturiers and designers. These designers translate different symbols, narratives and costumes of Catholicism and turned them into real life. The exhibition is a visual representation of how catholic imagery and storytelling tradition have shaped the creative minds of the designers.
Keith and I were in awe while strolling through the galleries- the ambiance and feeling of each ensemble is incredibly inspiring. You can actually FEEL the fabric falling from the mannequins! The designer’s imaginations came to life with this exhibit. There are pieces made from designers all over the world- talk about global influences!
It was truly rewarding to see these incredible clothing designs inspired by Catholicism successfully brought to life. I was reminded of how exciting it was when the Dharmachakra Collection samples first arrived in all their splendor and beauty- from drawing to sterling silver… an exciting transition to behold!
The Heavenly Bodies Exhibit at The Met Fifth Ave and the Met Cloisters will be closing on October 8th, 2018 so if you haven’t gone yet, definitely do! Be sure to check in on our CGNY Social Media this week to get a closer look at our Heavenly Bodies experience and thanks for reading!!
Upon reading one of his interviews, the image above is of the wealthy enjoying champagne on top while the workers are at the bottom, tipping the penny over. He did not explain his interpretation of it which allows for varied speculation by the public.
I started applying this to my own personal art- jewelry design. Like Otterness, I want to convey a specific message while delivering imaginative craftsmanship that everyone can enjoy! Take my Self-Reflection Collection for instance— it was inspired by tattoos which can serve as amulets, status symbols, declarations of love or even signs of religious beliefs. I utilized inspiring sayings often used for tattoos that the wearer can live by. My pieces are created to influence, inspire and allow others to feel happy, empowered and confident.
In 2009, Cynthia was invited to design a bespoke, licensed collection of iconic Dead jewelry via Grateful Dead Productions (GDP) to feature in the museum store for an upcoming Grateful Dead exhibition and beyond. As a lover of all music, from Rock and Roll to Jazz to Classical to Bluegrass to World, Gale accepted the challenge and created her first Grateful Dead, sterling silver jewelry collection featuring the band’s iconic artwork.
For the 40th Anniversary of Cornell ’77, Cynthia designed two, limited edition sterling silver pieces to commemorate this unique Grateful Dead concert. Each limited edition design arrives with an authentic, Cornell ’77 curatorial card.
The sterling silver Steal Your Face Belt Buckle features the 13-Point Lightning Bolt, embellished with an endless Celtic knot design, representing the infinite influence of the Dead’s distinctive music.
The sterling silver Steal Your Face Charm Catcher is on a 24”-26” adjustable S/S Chain and holds three iconic Dead charms: the Dancing Bear; 13-Point Lightning Bolt backed with mother-of-pearl; and the Terrapin.
The Edition Limit is 577, representing the memorable May concert date of Cornell ’77. Each piece is stamped on the back with Cornell ’77 and will be individually numbered 1/577, 2/577, 3/577, up to the 577 piece Edition Limit!
Cynthia Gale New York is now accepting orders on both Grateful Dead, Cornell ’77 Limited Edition designs. Exquisite handwork and finishing in sterling silver takes time. Limited Edition pieces will be produced steadily until the 577 piece Edition Limit is reached with the first shipments.
Cynthia Gale developed the CGNY Spinner Ring Collection concept in 1992 while she was exploring silver workshops in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. She was drawn by the meditative quality that the ring held as the wearer turned the outer ring. The ring’s calming quality coupled with Cynthia’s interest in Tibetan Prayer Wheels inspired her to establish a bespoke CGNY Spinner Ring Collection, adding individual artistic embellishments and metalwork techniques unique to Indonesia.
CGNY Spinner Rings are used to combat the fidgeting that occurs when one experiences high levels of anxiety. They provide a more subtle way to control the urge to fidget by connecting the wearer with an alternative- spinning the ring while taking deep breaths.
The power behind CGNY Spinner Rings is not found in the form of magical Tibetan powers, but rather through a practice which allows the wearer to refocus on the present. By spinning the ring, you are acknowledging your anxiety instead of letting it take control, holding you back from experiencing the present moment. Sometimes when we have anxiety we tend to fight or ignore it, making the anxiety our only focus. Cynthia Gale New York Spinner Rings acknowledge these anxious thoughts that we try so hard to ignore, making it easier to move past the anxiety and place yourself into the present by simply spinning a ring and breathing~
]]>
Sterling silver jewelry is a reflection of who we are - capturing a memory, passion or relationship. We gravitate to jewelry that has meaning- and birthstone jewelry is often the first connection we have with the world of gems.
Birthstones have a rich history dating back to ancient times. Some of the first birthstone references appear in the book of Exodus where Aaron’s breastplate is described. The breastplate featured twelve gemstones that represented the tribes of Israel. The twelve stones were introduced as the twelve signs of the zodiac which carried special powers. Wearing these stones was believed to have therapeutic benefits and later on, it became custom to wear the birthstones of each month.
Origins aside, it is delightful to think that each of us is assigned a special stone to represent the month we are born- digging into the legends and stories of the past only adds to the intrigue…
January - Garnet
The Garnet is known to enhance spiritual healing, symbolizing perseverance, strength, commitment and tenacity.
February - Amethyst
Amethyst features a lovely deep purple coloration and is considered one of the most striking gemstones worldwide for its distinctive beauty. Amethyst is prized for the associated qualities of peace, courage, stability and sincerity that it is thought to bestow on the wearer.
March - Blue Topaz
The Blue Topaz evokes images of the wind, sky, and water. Blue is the color of calm and quiet. This popular gemstone channels relaxing energy and fights chaos and negative emotion.
April - White Topaz
White Topaz is used for meditation. The gemstone’s soothing energy cleanses the emotions of the wearer and replaces negativity with love, joy and peace.
May - Green Quartz
Green Quartz is a stone of clarity used to purify the mind. Known for its magnificent green tone, this stunning stone clarifies thought processes and emotions. It is also known to foster inspiration and boost creativity.
June - White Pearl
Simply donning White Pearls reminds the wearer to be honest, pure, wise and to maintain the utmost dignity. White Pearls symbolize innocence, faith and honesty.
July - Carnelian
Carnelian is a power stone known for its qualities of ambition and drive. Helpful in making choices and decisions, Carnelian is the most powerful action stone for focusing, realization and self-actualization.
August - Peridot
Peridot is known as the stone of emotional healing and has been used as a power stone for centuries. Peridot fosters emotional balance and helps with healing past emotional wounds
September – Iolite
Lolite is an excellent stone for meditation and travelling, helping the wearer grow spiritually in a gentle fashion. It is considered a very strong "Shaman" stone and can stimulate clear psychic visions.
October- Tourmaline
Pink Tourmaline brings comforting energy and transforms negative behavior in a positive direction. Admired for its lovely translucent coloration, Pink Tourmaline stands for love, spirituality and understanding.
November - Citrine
Citrine brings happiness, joy and optimism into your life. One of only two minerals on the planet which does not hold or accumulate negative energy, but rather dispels and transforms it. Citrine energizes, and promotes warmth, comfort, and energy.
December - Turquoise
A truth stone, turquoise symbolizes a time to be honest with yourself. This gemstone is a one of self-realization, helping you to better understand your ideas and emotions.
]]>
Wanderlust comes in various forms and people have found different ways of expressing them. Designer Cynthia Gale expresses her travel itch in sterling silver, leather and enamel! The Cynthia Gale New York Wanderlust Unisex Leather Bracelet Collection is created for the traveler buried deep within all of us. The bracelet designs feature compass, ocean, mountain and sun motifs in sterling silver. Each design motif is complimented with a unique corresponding travel proverb etched artfully into sterling silver including;
In addition to sterling silver, the bracelets are constructed using rich, woven black leather and some styles are embellished with colorful enamel. The collection consists of 4 motifs and features a unique, sliding closure mechanism. Available in two sizes, wear one as a statement piece or stack them – let your sense of adventure inspire you!
Ernest Hemingway once said, “It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” The Wanderlust Bracelet Collection has been on a journey already- from skilled Indonesian artisans working in fair and safe conditions to the vertical landscape of NYC - a journey longer than most people have travelled in their entire lifetime. NYC isn’t the final destination of these bracelets – it’s the journey you decide to take them on- Carpe Diem!
For this shoot, we went to Manhattan’s Lower East Side and explored the funky scenery around the outer edge of Chinatown. We had two dazzling models, several clothing changes, a cluster of cameras and a bag full of gorgeous jewelry. The weather was on our side with bright, warm sunlight on an otherwise chilly spring day.
As flashes flew, we didn’t forget to have fun. Big smiles surfaced as we all worked towards composing the most captivating frames possible. While the photographers focused on capturing the right angles, Cynthia was constantly checking in on the styling. Jewelry went on and off the models at high speed, with Cynthia sharing meaningful feedback to both sides of the camera.
Following approximately 500 raw images, 4 outfit changes (on the street, behind a towel!) and several warm cups of java, we wrapped up a successful day. The final photo pics from the shoot can be seen on cynthiagale.com as well as on our social media pages, including Instagram and Facebook.
]]>With 25 years behind us, you’d think that we would have found a magical photographic formula that works every time. However, that’s far from reality. To stay relevant, one always has to adapt and find new ways of being innovative and displaying a sense of onus – both as an individual and as a company.
We are fortunate to have maintained a partnership with John Curry, our amazing still-life photographer, for the past 15 years. Together, we strive to create the most visually striking images of our artistic, sterling silver jewelry designs that have been created with the utmost care.
Given that customer satisfaction is one of our key objectives, we want to ensure that each new CGNY piece is delivered in the perfect packaging- it’s especially important to us because we know you have excellent taste!
Therefore, we proudly present our new Cynthia Gale New York jewelry pouches! The exterior of the pouch doubles as a cleaning cloth, so that you can keep your CGNY jewelry clean and shiny for all the years of compliments which lie ahead. The pouches are also great for gifting- it not only looks lovely and upscale, but shows that you value the gift’s recipient because you’ve thought of everything (we promise we won’t tell that it’s included with most purchases).
Speaking of gifts, when was the last time you bought yourself one?
]]>
Sterling silver jewelry is timeless- outlasting the endless parade of fads and fashions. Invest in a piece you love and we guarantee that you'll never tire of it or feel as though you’re behind the times.
Sterling silver offers so many options in size and look. Silver is such an easy material to work with and easy to style. It’s the perfect precious metal to go from day to evening.
Sterling silver jewelry makes a wonderful gift and we love the reactions of family, friends and colleagues when it is given as a present. It is equally suitable for young and old. Additionally, there are an endless supply of options to suit every budget and occasion. All Cynthia Gale New York jewelry arrives with a curatorial card which details the inspiration for the design making it the perfect conversation piece for any party or just the right gift to create that special memory.
Sterling silver jewelry is easy to care for. Simply wipe your silver jewelry clean with a sterling silver cleaning cloth (all CGNY jewelry comes with a cleaning cloth) to return your piece to its original luster. Storing sterling silver jewelry in a plastic bag or box will both keep it safe from scratches and limit tarnish.
Sterling silver jewelry is reasonably priced in comparison to other precious metals such as platinum and gold. You can acquire many pieces for your money. Rather than deciding between a pair of earrings and a cuff- just get both! Sterling silver jewelry provides that artistic, upscale styling edge that makes it the perfect accessory value for that special occasion.
Discover the five reasons to choose men's sterling silver jewelry when you shop for the man in your life.
Men's Cobra Sterling Silver Spin Ring - $90
Sterling silver is strong enough to be worn daily and men's silver jewelry can last for years with proper care. Sterling silver jewelry is a great choice for gifting- it can be worn for a lifetime. He will love to wear his Cynthia Gale New York men's jewelry every day.
Men's sterling silver jewelry is a handsome gift for many occasions. Sterling silver is reasonably priced and perceived as a luxury item- a welcome gift for the men in your life! Choose from Cynthia Gale New York men's silver rings, necklaces, cufflinks and bracelets.
3. Silver is Neutral
Sterling silver accessories can be worn with any clothing color. Grey is a well established neutral color in clothing and sterling silver is the jewelry world's grey! Men's silver jewelry will go well with his leather steel watch and his French Cuff shirt. Consider the gift of silver jewelry to work back with everything in his wardrobe.
Retro Metro Large NYC Token Sterling Silver Cufflinks - $185
4. A Wide Range of Styles
Don't feel limited when you shop for sterling silver men’s jewelry. Sterling silver jewelry for men can be found in a wide range of styles, from spin rings and simple necklaces to stylish rock star bracelets. Choose the sterling silver jewelry that will reflect his personality.
Retro Metro NYC Token Urban Sterling Silver Bracelet - $72
5. Silver Jewelry is a Great Value
Sterling silver is made with 92.5 percent pure silver, the balance being an alloy to ensure metal strength. This is a high precious metal content when compared to many other types of jewelry. Sterling silver is considered a Noble Metal, along with gold and platinum. These metals resist corrosion and tarnish- they have longevity. Of the three, sterling silver is the most affordable.
]]>Cynthia Gale & Dana Cowin
Fine cuisine and wines weren't all that celebs were talking about at this year's Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Food & Wine (NYCWFF). Known for their luxurious art-inspired and urban eclectic designs, Cynthia Gale New York's handmade silver jewelry was a hot topic of discussion. CGNY hosted a Celebrity Gifting Suite at the event, courtesy of GBK Productions, where the biggest culinary stars and celebs adorned themselves in Cynthia Gale's signature necklaces, bracelets and rings.
Among the legendary culinary icons and beloved TV chefs to rock CGNY's timeless and sophisticated silver jewelry at the Celebrity Gifting Suite were The Chew Co-Host Carla Hall, Singer Patti Labelle, Food & Wine Magazine Editor-in-Chief Dana Cowin, Man V. Food and Food Fighters Host Adam Richman, Actress and Host of Dinner at Tiffani's Tiffani Theissen, Bobby and Jamie Deen, co-owners of The Lady & Sons, and Michael Symon, Food Network personality and co-host of The Chew.
Along with gifting celebs the season's most elegant and refined jewelry, 20% of the table fee profits from the GBK Celebrity Gifting Suite were donated to various charities. Through allowing luxury brands like CGNY to sponsor a gifting suite at special events, GBK has been able to donate more than $2 million to over 20 different charities.
About the New York City Wine & Food Festival
The New York City Wine & Food Festival aims to pay homage to New York City as one of the leading dining cities in the world, while fighting to end hunger. Founded in 2007, the event has raised $8.5 million to help fight hunger, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Food Bank for New York and the No Kid Hungry Campaign.
The Food Bank of New York has served as NYC's major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger for over 30 years, and nearly 1 in 5 New Yorkers relies on the organization for food and other resources. Launched by Share Our Strength in 2006, the No Kid Hungry Campaign connects children in need to nutritious foods and teaches their families how to cook healthy, affordable meals, while also engaging the public to make ending child hunger a national priority. CGNY was proud to be a part of this event and support these amazing charities.
Check out our photos below from our Celebrity Gifting Suite at NYCWFF:
Carla Hall & Cynthia Gale
Amanda Freitag
Andrew Zimmern
Cynthia Gale & Patti Labelle
Robert Irvine
Bobby & Jamie Deen
Elizabeth Karmel
]]>
Congratulations Shoe4Africa! Kenya’s first Children’s Hospital is finally complete… so exciting!! After seven long years of tireless work, my good friend Toby Tanser has completed what he started out to do and I am so proud of him and what Shoe4Africa has given to the children of this beautiful, yet impoverished country.
The Shoe4Africa Children's Hospital is the first dedicated public children's hospital of its kind in East & Central Africa. Groundbreaking took place on December 31st, 2012, construction began on July 7th, 2013, and the foundation stone was set on August 21st, 2013. The hospital is a project of Shoe4Africa, a New York charity focused on creating better health and education outcomes focused in Eastern Africa. Donors have included notable names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Natalie Portman, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Mark Webber, and Anthony Edwards… and of course, Cynthia Gale New York!
We are so pleased to have supported Toby and the Shoe4Africa team. As Margaret Mead once said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Cynthia Gale & Toby Tanser
]]>
The Big Apple is known for many things like the impressive skyline, fast lifestyle and of course, the fashion. New York may be considered the fashion capital of the world and it's always at the center of attention when new styles and trendy designs emerge. With that said, unless you've been living out of the loop since 1943, September always marks one of the biggest events in the fashion industry and that's New York Fashion Week. The huge event always draws in big crowds of celebrities, fashion icons, designers and others that are there to see the future of fashion, and this event was no different.
This year at the branded event, the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week featured something a little extra that got people talking and that was the handmade silver jewelry from the Cynthia Gale New York design studio. Cynthia Gale New York (CGNY) hosted a Celebrity Gifting Suite at the event, courtesy of GBK Productions, where A-List celebs were able to adorn themselves in the hottest silver jewelry on the market. Celebs like Whoopi Goldberg, Alan Cumming, Carla Hall and others were more than pleased to be accessorized with the unique and distinct silver jewelry. Some of the stunning jewelry included gorgeous silver necklaces, rings, men's bracelets and more.
Cynthia Gale welcomed numerous guests at the Celebrity Gifting Suite to check out the trend-setting sterling silver jewelry at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Some included Emma Myles and Emily Althaus from the hit drama Orange Is The New Black, actors Chris McDonald and Fredric Lehne, recording artist Bridget Kelly, actress and singer Demetria McKinney, fashion designers June Ambrose and Helen Castillo, singer Stafani Vara, actresses Sarah Wynter and Selenis Leyva, Stef Dawson from The Hunger Games and Real Housewives of New York City star Kristen Taekman.
Gifting With Purpose
Everyone embraced the CGNY collection of silver jewelry and rocked their new accessories in full stride. But, the Celebrity Gifting Suite wasn't just a freebie giveaway because it serves another purpose that ends up being a win-win situation for all. In fact, 20 percent of the table fee profits from the Celebrity Gifting Suites go various charities. Since CGNY was a participating sponsor of a Gifting Suite, a portion of the costs were given to support the different charities that were on site, which was managed through GBK Productions.
The purpose of hosting a Gifting Suite for CGNY was to gain wide spread exposure through one of the biggest events of the year that was also supporting a great cause. According to an interview with the owner of GBK Productions, GBK donated over $2 million in produces, services and cash to over 20 different charities by providing businesses like CGNY with the opportunity to sponsor a beneficial suite. In return, businesses can showcase their best products, like the trendy sterling silver jewelry found at CGNY, for everyone to see and for it to be at MB Fashion Week, it couldn't get any better besides the celebs loving the product.
However, not every vendor or business who wants to sponsor a gift lounge gets to participate. GBK turns down an average of 500 vendors at any given event because they aren't of the caliber they seek. And that means CGNY has what it takes to make an impression that's worth checking out because the collection of silver jewelry is not one to be missed.
The whole team behind Cynthia Gale New York was proud to be a part of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and sponsor a Celebrity Gifting Suite because our handmade silver jewelry is unlike anything else. Are you ready to accessorize and standout with CGNY sterling silver jewelry?
Check out some of the photos below from our Celebrity Gifting Suite at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week event!
Carla Hall
Alan Cumming
Bridget Kelly
Demetria McKinney
Stefani Vara
Cynthia Gale, Emma Myles & Emily Althaus
Stef Dawson
Follow my blog with Bloglovin]]>Earlier this year, what did you do for Mother’s Day? Did you play the sweet and loving son or daughter? Did you shower your mother with roses, take her out for a wonderful dinner or better still, surprise her with a pair of sterling silver earrings that she has been eyeing for weeks?
Well, Father’s Day is fast approaching. For many people, finding meaningful gifts for the dads in our lives can be a daunting task. There will come a point where socks and tie options have run their dreary course! Even though dads may gruffly state that they don’t want anything for Father’s Day, it doesn’t mean that this important holiday should be celebrated gift-free. Here are some Father’s Day gift ideas just for you.
MTA Retro Metro Subway Token Collection
If you dad is always on the move… worldly… and LOVES New York City, this collection is made just for him. Constructed using authentic NYC subway tokens from as far back as 1953, the collectible, urban feel of the Retro Metro Collection is just what he needs.
Grateful Dead Collection
If your dad is all about rock-and-roll, the Dead were one of his “go to” bands in his youth. If your dad loves to ride his Harley, then he will love this Grateful Dead Collection. Any Steal Your Face, Thirteen Point Lightening Bolt or Dancing Bear designs from this collection are the perfect addition to his accessory collection.
45 RPM Collection
If you need a more classic approach to the rock-and-roll inspired pieces for your dad, this collection would probably be the one! This dad truly loves classic rock. For his upscale, classy taste, this sleek and chic collection will hit the mark for sure.
New York City Collection
If your dad goes for modern, architectural shapes, whether it’s the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State or the Chrysler, he wants to show that he is a city-boy. The City That Never Sleeps Collection which celebrates life in the “Big Apple” will definitely clinch the deal.
Now that you are all set with the gift, how do you make the celebration more meaningful? How a gift is presented is almost as important as the gift itself! Try writing a series of simple Father’s Day Clue Poems, leading your dad from one place to the next- a poetic Father’s Day Journey, so-to-speak!
Hand dad a note as he arrives home that reads:
It’s Father’s Day…
and time to think.
What’s in it for me?
check the sink!
Cheers to your classy dad, day in and day out! It’s time to return the favor to the dad who taught you a thing or two about style. So instead of yet another pair of socks or a tie, Father’s Day sterling silver jewelry is a classic, lasting way to show him how much he is loved and appreciated. Give your dad a sterling gift that sparks cherished memories and offers the possibly of being handed down to future generations as a timeless keepsake. Truly a gift that keeps on giving!
]]>