During my childhood, I often enjoyed enhancing my style by wearing jewelry, particularly earrings. My wonderful great grandmother, Anne, would consistently praise my 'fashionable sense'.

My great uncle took care of my great-grandmother for many years. He bought a piece of jewelry in Honolulu, Hawaii for her on November 9th, 1979. The piece was a 14k Solid Gold Black Coral Necklace. The black coral was from the Pacific Ocean off the islands of Hawaii, a special find to say the least. The necklace was intended for Anne to wear, but he decided to give it to me after her passing. The necklace was a special gift and a way to remember her. Right around the time I received the piece, I started Kate Gates Jewelry.

Once I received Anne's necklace, it not only gave my confidence in beginning this journey, it helped me stay to my core values in what I believed I wanted in my own jewelry line which is affordability, durability, fashionable, versatile, and specially made for sensitive skin.