Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Angiel.
Hi Catherine, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Since childhood, I’ve always been an artist and musician. I started playing drums at five years old and was naturally drawn to creativity. I also loved playing with my mom’s costume jewelry, constantly redesigning it, so it’s no surprise that jewelry design became my calling later in life. I truly believe we are born with a passion for what we are meant to do.
I grew up in a one-bedroom apartment in Queens, NY, with my parents and two brothers. Times were tough, and when I turned 16, my mom told me that if I wanted new drum equipment, I needed to get a job. By coincidence or fate, I ended up working in my friend’s family jewelry store. That is where I fell in love with the craft and begged to learn. But at the time, my boss told me, “Women aren’t strong enough. Stick to being a salesgirl.” That was all the motivation I needed to prove him wrong.
I took any job I could in the jewelry world, from working in factories for minimum wage to sweeping floors. Then one day, a female jewelry designer finally gave me a chance. From there, I learned to create fine jewelry by hand. Several years later, I wanted to expand my knowledge and took a position in production, mastering everything from fabrication to gemstones. I started designing my own small collection at home after work, selling to boutiques, friends, and family until I saved enough to start my own business.
At the same time, I was still drumming and gigging. I played in underground clubs throughout the ‘80s, balancing my two passions. In the early ‘90s, I took a leap and opened my boutique in Greenwich Village, where my shop still stands today.
It has been an incredible journey built on persistence, passion, and the belief that no matter the obstacles, I could turn my dream into reality.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There were many struggles along the way. My family did not have the money to send me to jewelry school or pay for music lessons. Instead, I went to the school of hard knocks, which taught me more than I could have ever imagined. Looking back, I am proud of my journey and hope to inspire others to never give up on their dreams, no matter how far-fetched they may seem.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My choice of materials is fine jewelry. From the wax carving to the final creation, there is something powerful about seeing people enjoy my work and making it part of their most special moments. From engagement rings to wedding bands, I have the privilege of contributing to magical milestones in people’s lives.
What sets my work apart from others in the industry is that I am a self-made, true artist. I did not inherit a business, and my parents were hardworking blue-collar workers. I was never inspired by the idea of simply being a merchant, buying and selling. That would never fulfill me. What truly inspires me are my experiences—growing up in New York, surrounded by its stunning architecture, and the fascinating people I have met along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://catherineangiel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherineangiel/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineAngielJewelry
