How long have you been Director of Quadrum Gallery?
I just celebrated 10 years this May, and I have been with Quadrum for 16 amazing years!
How would you sum up the mission of Quadrum Gallery?
For over 36 years, the owner of Quadrum, Cynthia Kagan, has been setting the pace for excellence, representing exceptional collections of only the finest craftsmanship and innovative design in Artist jewelry. We are on a never-ending hunt to seek out distinctive, timeless, and modern artist made jewelry.
Our staff has been with us for many, many years and I have never met a more creative, inspiring and vibrant group of people completely devoted to our mission. I have seen them work with our clients with great passion, energy, and devotion to make sure each and every one of our clients walked out of Quadrum satisfied and with a big smile on their face.
What makes your store experience so exceptional?
Our customers mean so much to us, and it is an absolute privilege on a daily basis to have the opportunity to share with them what we are so passionate about, and that they trust us to bring them the very best of the best.
I think that what sets us apart is how we go the extra mile and truly love the challenge of any jewelry request. As much as I love the thrill of an online sale… I relish the opportunity to assist anyone who walks through our door. The human connection is what I crave and live for. I love the fact that I get to enter into people’s lives and get to play such an important role in so many of life’s memorable celebrations. It is always so sweet when a client shows their appreciation.
Not long ago I received an email from a client who had taken the time to very kindly thank me:
“It occurred to me that I didn't sufficiently convey my total delight with my ring. I LOVE it and wear it every day. Thank you so much for your incredible good taste, hunting down the perfect ring for me, and just generally being who you are -- an intelligent, thoughtful, artful, lovely woman. I'm so appreciative of everything you do.”
It means the world to me when someone takes the time to go out of their way to thank me. I always save these notes and cherish them.
Finding homes for the work that I love, made by artists whom I greatly admire and respect- this to me is the ultimate reward!
How do you define when a jewelry designer has that “certain something” that makes you want to show it to the world?
This is always the sign: when we personally want to own it! We are so in tune with our clients. They are so supportive, and have great confidence, and trust us to seek out the very best in artistry, originality and craftsmanship.
How do you relax/unwind?
Lots of Bikram yoga! And escaping to Provincetown where I can be close to the sea. Both are Heaven to me!
What directions or trends in jewelry are you excited about right now?
I am not so much into trends, and I really try to encourage and inspire our clients to wear what they love, and help them to create their own unique sense of personal style. The jewelry we wear becomes a part of our wardrobe and really our identity. I love to mix and match metals, and I am all about layering. Our style is an evolution, a work in progress as we collect and combine. I suppose if I were to talk about “directions” that I am excited about, it would be to collect and support as many artists and designers that you can!
Planner or impulsive?
Very possibly a little bit of both. We are always thinking ahead and planning for the future, but we like to keep things exciting in the gallery for both our customers and ourselves. Each day is a new day, and with that brings endless possibilities.
What’s the most valuable asset you have that can’t be locked in the vault?
This is a really great, challenging question. I would have to say my charm. And, by that I don’t mean all the charms I have collected over so many years by all the artists I love!
My mother always told me; “to greet each person you meet with a great big smile, like they were your best friend… it goes a long way”
So I would say that I feel like I have this special ability to make people feel welcome and comfortable the second they walk into our gallery. I really take the time to get to know my clients and understand their life style, and they really trust me to be honest with them. I really want them to feel like they are shopping with a best friend. It is really thrilling for me to see someone’s eyes light up when I help them find that perfect piece.
If someone were to meet you at the door with a drink, what would it be?
It depends on the door!… Kettle One, with a splash of soda water garnished with a lemon and a lime (date night); Veuve (celebration); Caipirinha (vacation)…
What would you like to see more of in the jewelry business?
I really think that what I would like to see more of, I am actually seeing: connection and collaboration! Between being a Cornerstone Retailer at the Couture Show and feeling the genuine good energy from both the designers and so many other great retailers, to being a member and Co-President of the Boston Chapter’s (WJA) Women’s Jewelry Association has created this feeling of overall connection within the community across the board. There is a whole world out there, and there are so many jewelry designers and so many retailers and so many consumers that there is enough for all of us to share. I really think that we all have something to learn from each other.
Thank you, Sia! What a pleasure to get to know you better! You can read more about Sia and Quadrum Gallery here, and follow Quadrum on Instagram and Facebook.
