Our Founder
Hi, I am Cindy, founder of Rare Matters Jewelry.
My journey began in 1987 when my family moved to New York City, where we had a small jewelry business. Over the years, that business evolved into a jewelry manufacturing company in China, established in the early '90s. Growing up in this environment, I was immersed in the world of jewelry, and my inherent artistic inclinations led me to pursuits like painting, sketching, and various creative endeavors.
I pursued a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts at NYU and continued to expand my horizons by completing a master's in Art Administration at FIT. During my studies, I gained experience working in the jewelry industry, art galleries, and volunteering at NYC museums, which deepened my passion for jewelry design.
New York City, a vibrant source of artistic inspiration, played a pivotal role in shaping my unique design philosophy. Following a career as a graphic designer from 1996 to 2000, I embarked on a transition from digital to crafting jewelry.
In 2019, I decided to launch my own collection, driven by the desire to create jewelry that resonated with my personal journey. I view the human form as a canvas for wearable art, and over the past few years, I've dedicated myself to sustainability, experimenting with recycled and upcycled materials.
My initial design style was described as "industrial yet ultra-feminine, clean, organic, minimalist, and understated." However, my evolution over time has led to the creation of larger, more striking pieces, incorporating added ornamentation, color, and texture. This transformation is evident in my latest collection, Wabi-Sabi.
My journey is a testament to my artistic growth and my unwavering commitment to crafting distinctive, sustainable, and beautiful jewelry. I invite you to join me on this remarkable journey, where we celebrate and adorn imperfection through our unique Wabi-Sabi Collection.
Explore Our "Wabi-Sabi Collection": Celebrating Imperfection
Our first collection finds inspiration in the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, embracing life's imperfections and the beauty of change. These pieces blend skilled craftsmanship with sculptural design, featuring elements like sea shell pebbles for a touch of femininity and airy statements. Adorned with natural gemstones and cubic zirconia, our jewelry captures the essence of organic forms and expert hands at work.
This collection encourages you to value your unique journey and find beauty in imperfections. Each piece is a tribute to life's fleeting moments and imperfections. Discover the allure of impermanence through our Wabi-Sabi Collection.