"Wow, I love your necklace…!" I was 18 years old, traveling alone in New York, and getting compliments on my necklace from complete strangers on the street. It was handmade with beads I'd bought at Walmart. Looking back, this marks the moment my dream of starting my own jewelry brand began.

New York was the last stop on my solo journey through the United States. I started in Los Angeles and, via the Grand Canyon and New Orleans, arrived in "The Big Apple ." The city captivated me from the moment I stepped out of the subway on 42nd Street. What a vibrant energy.

After enjoying everything New York has to offer for a few days, I wanted to end my last day on a memorable note. I just didn't have much money left. My guidebook offered a solution. The Chart House restaurant supposedly had a magnificent view of Manhattan and wasn't too expensive. I took the ferry to New Jersey, but I didn't have a coat and—as often happens to me—wasn't prepared for the pouring rain. I arrived at the rather chic restaurant feeling like a drowned cat. However, they were extremely friendly and gave me a "table for one" by the window. A magnificent view indeed! I also remember exactly what I ate: potatoes with salmon. But the ferry trip back is what I remember most. Night had fallen, and the New York skyline was all lit up. The weather was still stormy, but the rolling waves made the city look even more magical from the ferry.

So you understand that New York had to be a must-have in the Riverstones' City collection. This collection also includes my most personal piece of jewelry to date: the " Skate in the Park" necklace . I saw a figure skating competition while skiing, and I was instantly hooked. I wanted to be one too. As a little girl, I went to the local ice rink every weekend to practice. I had found my passion! That little girl eventually made it to a real ice revue in Mexico. Skating means freedom to me. When I'm on the ice and turning pirouettes, I forget everything around me. This necklace symbolizes my first love. Of course, I'd also love to skate in Central Park someday.

Writing this now makes me realize how much travel has given me. The jewelry in the City collection is designed to rekindle these memories. Hopefully, by sharing my story, I can inspire you to find your own passion and embrace your creative journey.