By Ray Rogers
Ray Rogers: In the ’80s and ’90s, Reinstein Ross on Prince Street in Soho was the place where everyone went for their engagement and wedding rings—myself included. How did it attract such a core following from the start?
Judith Hoetker, Head of Goldsmiths and Production: I believe that it was the combination of the personalized shopping experience, the possibility of customization of the piece, and the unusual techniques, golds and stones used.
RR: One of the things that makes Reinstein Ross so special is that everything in the store is handmade. How has craftsmanship played a pivotal role?
JH: From the beginning, the hand fabrication of every single piece has been an essential component of the brand, along with the high-karat gold colors and unusual gems. These three things, combined with the vision of our founders, Susan Reinstein and Brian Ross, are the DNA of the brand.
RR: Sara, you’ve had some very high-profile collaborations recently. What was it like to work with Venus Williams and Victor Cruz?
Sara Pilot, President of Reinstein Ross: Both Venus and Victor are driven and passionate perfectionists who admire the art and precision of goldsmithing. As intense athletes, their focus on the field mirrors their dedication to designing jewelry. Collaborating with them felt perfectly aligned with our DNA. We are always interested in partnering with like-minded individuals or brands because our story is about originality, creativity and uniqueness. Few goldsmith-based jewelry companies can offer customers the chance to say, “I’m wearing a one-of-a-kind piece,” and to me, that is our magic.
RR: What are the hottest items for summer/fall of 2024?
SP: These are the trends we are seeing for 2024: Stacking remains a defining style, whether it’s earrings, rings, necklaces or bracelets, with artful layering creating a refined, personalized look. The use of colored stones in unusual shapes adds a sophisticated vibrancy, while high-karat gold, particularly 22-karat, imparts a sumptuous quality to modern jewelry.
RR: How does wellness factor into what you do at the brand?
SP: Jewelry in modern times serves multiple roles beyond adornment. Objects created by Reinstein Ross Goldsmiths, for example, can evoke a sense of beauty and craftsmanship that encourages reflection. People always recognize our jewelry for its distinctive craftsmanship and handmade feel, which adds to its allure and makes it a cherished piece in anyone’s collection. Moreover, our jewelry often sparks interesting conversations because each piece has a unique story behind it. Whether it’s the inspiration drawn from nature, the meticulous process of creation or the symbolic meaning imbued into the design, there’s always a narrative waiting to be shared. In this way, jewelry becomes not just an adornment, but a vehicle for storytelling and connection, enriching the wearer’s experience and fostering meaningful interactions. reinsteinross.com