The Tanta Story

There are a few different ways that one can become a Tanta. My personal route to “Tantahood” was through my dear sister Diane, whose two sons have always been as significant a part of my life as she was. 

You see, Tanta is a Yiddish term for “Auntie”. I became a Tanta at the ripe age of 11, and then again at 17. My only sibling, Diane, was 11 years older than I so her sons, in many respects, have always been more like brothers than nephews. But I never would have been inducted as a Tanta without her.

Diane was a strong force – full of wit, energy, wisdom and compassion – and it was those very strengths that armed her for a 7 year battle with breast cancer until it overcame her in 1998. 

Diane's ability to maintain optimism and hope while facing a threat on her life was inspirational. She was always there to be a big sister, a strong mom, and a cheerleader for others, even on her hardest days. Her willingness to support others – in spite of her own battle – actually gave her strength. Her convictions and desires to make others aware gave her momentum and purpose right up until she lost her own personal fight. I had always known that Diane had passion to help others, but it was never more evident to me than on the day of her funeral, when numerous women that I had never even met approached me to tell me how she had been there for them through their own struggles with the same disease.  They survived and reaffirmed to me what I already knew about my sister:  she wasn't just my hero, but she was a hero to many. 

It is for that reason that I dedicate this website to Diane. She was such a beautiful person, and I think that every piece of jewelry shines with a bit of her sparkle. And when a woman smiles and feels loved, well, that's how Diane must have made those frightened women feel.

Thanks, Sis. I’m going to try and carry the torch because it is such an honor to be a Tanta.

- Tanta

Tanta’s Treasures will donate a percentage of all sales to Breast Cancer Research and other charitable organizations.