Retirement didn’t suit Kaye Rosenthal. She’s unique. She’s traveled the world, walked beaches on Polynesian isles, tracked through dusty New Mexican hamlets searching for rare art works, driven down dark back roads packing heat, carrying precious jewelry and wads of cash. Asked why she chose to live a life of adventure and risk, she simply replies it’s her nature; she’s only following the dictates of her soul.
“Some people are gold, some silver,” explained Rosenthal. “I am silver, not gold or diamond. That’s why I was drawn to Southwestern Indian jewelry and art. It’s who I am and I can’t leave it. It’s my passion.”
After a four-year absence, Sonoma’s expert in Southwestern Indian jewelry, pottery and art works has returned to the Plaza.
“Shortly after I sold Santa Fe Trading, I discovered I was too young to retire,” said Rosenthal. “So a few weeks ago I opened the Santa Fe Connection and now I am back offering one-of-a-kind pottery, jewelry, fetish pieces and Western art.”
The Santa Fe Connection has unique Southwestern jewelry, contemporary silver pieces, gemstones, western paintings, exotic sculptures and Indian pottery.
“My husband is a leading expert in Indian pottery and fetishes,” said Rosenthal. “This not only gives us a unique distinction, but Paul has a strong back and is good at lifting large boxes,” she said with a warm laugh.
While she loves working in the store, every six weeks Rosenthal plans a buying trip to New Mexico. Dealing directly with local artisans, she searches for pieces that represent the finest in Southwestern art.
“I always look forward to our buying trips, finding original, quality Indian jewelry, pottery and fetish sculptures. Bargaining with the artisans is a fun challenge, and everything I buy we sell at half the price others would offer. You couldn’t get our prices if you traveled to New Mexico,” she said.
An admitted workaholic, Rosenthal has no plans to coast along on the sterling reputation she established with the Santa Fe Trading Company.
“My new store will offer a wonderful collection of fetish pieces. They are made out of stone, of different animals; each has a different meaning. They are truly unique.”
Just like the gal behind the counter of Santa Fe Connection.
The Santa Fe Connection is at 481-A First St. West. The store is open five days a week 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Call 707.938.8703 for information.
