Family-owned fine jewelry brand Carelle has become amongst the first fashion companies to be recognized under the City of New York’s “Made in NY” distinction.
Made in NY is an initiative of the New York City Economic Development Corporation that recognizes and celebrates New York City’s fashion sector by supporting the influential designers and brands that are based here. Carelle’s certification under this initiative means its jewelry meets the highest standards of quality, design, craftsmanship and that its operations are fully based in New York, helping artisan careers thrive in America.
Carelle previously has been recognized for its practices by the Responsible Jewelry Council, the American Gem Society, the Women’s Jewelry Association and the Council of Fashion Designers of America. The Made in NY certification is the final puzzle piece in validating Carelle’s commitment to its product, its craftsmen and its city.
The company’s high standards and values stem directly from those set by Chana Regev. Since founding Carelle in 1977 as a freelance designer and private label manufacturer, she has been devoted to creating fine jewelry that is comfortable to wear and expertly crafted to withstand the test of time and be passed down to the next generation.
It was in 2007 that Chana’s designs and the Carelle brand as a whole were taken to the next level, thanks to the vision and dedication of Marketing Director Brooke Tivol McGrath. Tragically, Brooke passed away on Jan. 11, 2011 at the age of 28 of a rare blood infection. Though she is gone, she never is forgotten, and in her memory every piece of Carelle jewelry carries the signature leaf motif that she created for the brand.
As a woman who self-started in the industry, Chana now honors Brooke with the WJA-Carelle Grant. Awarded annually by the Women’s Jewelry Association, the grant is meant to empower women starting on their own in the jewelry industry and aid them in reaching their goals and aspirations. The grant is a tribute both to Brooke’s character and Chana’s support of designers looking to make a name for themselves.
Today, Carelle is run by Chana, her husband Eyal and their three sons, all committed to expanding the reach of their brand nationwide through independent, family-operated jewelry stores as well as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s flagship location in New York.
From start to finish, the details that go into creating Carelle jewelry—from the early stage of selecting stones to the final touch of laser engraving every piece of jewelry—happens in New York. Carelle’s home-based operations and commitment to its employees are symbolic of the American dream, with the Made in NY certification a final touch on this vision.
