Ellie Rocks NYC (formerly Diamond Dog New York), has just been re-launched, and TfS had the chance to chat with designer Suzanne Mates, whose own pet dachshund ‘Ellie’ inspired the collection. Mates’ collection is handcrafted in New York City, comes in both 18k white or 18k matte yellow gold, is hand-set with micro-pavé white, brown, and black diamonds, onyx, sparkling pink, blue, and yellow sapphires.
The multi-talented designer was a major taste-maker in the music world, ran some of the most legendary recording studios in New York City, and has worked with a number of world-famous artists including Joss Stone, Wyclef, Busta Rhymes, and 50 Cent. Read below to find out about the designer’s canine affinity, her dream client, and more…
Q: How do you go about choosing what materials you work with?
A: We only work with the best materials possible. Except for the chains which are made in Italy (they don’t make 18K White or Yellow Gold chains in the U.S.). Each piece is made of 18K Yellow or White Gold, and I design every piece, every clasp and every mold by hand. All of our diamonds are non conflict, and each stone is hand cut in NY.
Q: Do you think you’ll ever branch-out beyond jewelry?
A: Yes, I think so. If it could still help the dogs or animals in some way I would love to expand ELLIE ROCKS NYC. I don’t design the jewelry for the dogs – it’s to show the world what I stand behind.
