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Spotlight on Lina Zhang – Jewelry Designer and Entrepreneur

Stepping into Ridgefield’s newest shop, CY Collective, is like exploring a global bazaar filled with artistically crafted delights. The Collective is the brainchild of Lina Zhang, a successful jewelry designer whose passion for art, design, and her cultural heritage inspired her to open this unique emporium. Lina’s journey is an inspiration to anyone who seeks to turn their passions into a successful business.

What was your vision for creating CY Collective?

I wanted to create a community of artists, artisans, and designers where they could display and sell their handcrafted products all under one roof. It really is a community of like-minded entrepreneurs where we can celebrate artistic creation and connect with the Ridgefield community.

From Changchun, China to Ridgefield – tell us about your journey!

After spending my childhood in the Changchun countryside, we then moved to the larger cities of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Fast forward to 1999 when I moved to New York City and fell head over heels for the city’s fashion and style. I became a jeweler designer to follow my passion for art, nature and explore my heritage. I launched successful retail and wholesale businesses in the city. The decision to move to Ridgefield three years ago was one of the best we’ve made for our young family. We love this community and want to invest in our lives here, as well as in our exciting new business venture.

And since Mother’s Day is on the horizon – what are some of your favorite jewelry pieces?

My collection of handmade jewelry is made from 14k gold fill wire, and features a range of semi-precious stones. I also create pieces in precious stones like rubies and sapphires. Many of my pieces feature baroque pearls from South China, and I am always happy to create custom pieces. Here are some of my favorites!

Drop Earrings with Semiprecious Stones
Tree Necklace with Gemstone Pendant
Carnelian and Topaz Branch Earrings
Drop Earrings with Carnelian, Peridot, Iolite & Pearl

Tell us about the artisans who are part of the collective.

A large part of our new shop is dedicated to local artisans who display their products for sale, ranging from soaps, clothing, home décor, dishware, gemstones, spiritual gifts, and more. All are lovingly crafted by hand with a focus on natural ingredients and elements. I’m excited to partner with so many talented local artisans and give them a platform (both in the shop and on our e-commerce website) to get discovered by the community. Our artisans were present for our recent open house party, and it was great to connect with the community. There are so many gift ideas – too many to show here. So, we invite your readers to come and explore!

Amethyst Crystals
PURE Body Care Gift Box
SALT Global Artisan Fashion

What else makes your new venture unique?

I envision CY Collective to be not just a store, but a hub for the community to connect, learn and appreciate local talent and craftsmanship. We also have a beautiful event room available for rent for art-themed birthday parties or other celebrations. We’ve already hosted arts and craft parties for kids and it’s so inspiring to see a new generation of creativity!

The CY Collective Party Room
Lina with Husband Dylan at the Launch Party

CY Collective

Learn more

Visit CY Collective:

1 Bailey Ave, Ridgefield, CT 06877

Shop online: cycollective.net

Follow on Instagram: @cycollective

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