A hidden gem in New Jersey is hoping to spread color around the world.
The husband-and-wife duo behind Angara Jewelry Company specializes in precious gemstones. While their families have been in business in India for generations, they are hoping to leave their mark in New Jersey.
“My dad came to the U.S. in the early ‘70s and he used to make custom jewelry for high-end clients,” says Aditi Daga. “What really struck me was the amount of care that they took for each custom piece and how personal each piece was.”
The family was invited by the Maharajas of Jaipur over 400 years ago and they used to make custom jewelry for royalty and nobility.
Daga and her husband decided to branch out on their own 18 years ago. The goal was to make colorful gemstones synonymous with Angara.
“We are to become the De Beers of the color gemstone industry. What they did for diamonds, we want to do for color gemstones,” Daga says.
The custom online jewelry company employs more than 400 people – with 10 offices around the world. It allows customers to create and receive their unique pieces within days.
“The shipping happens from one office, the manufacturing happens elsewhere,” Daga says. “Both of us are the only two based in Jersey just because we love the community feel of New Jersey.”
The couple have put roots down in New Jersey and say they are excited to see many more do the same.
“People have postponed so many life events because of COVID,” Daga says. “We’re happy to see that people can celebrate again. And we always want them to celebrate with color. That’s our goal.”
Industry experts are predicting that there will be about 2.25 million engagements this year, primarily in November and December, according to Daga.