Lois Sasson
American jewelry designer (1940–2020)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lois Sasson (April 28, 1940 – December 30, 2020) was an American jewelry designer, gay rights activist, and longtime partner of singer-songwriter Lesley Gore.[1]
April 28, 1940
Lois Sasson | |
|---|---|
| Born | Lois Diane Kahaner April 28, 1940 New York City, U.S. |
| Died | December 30, 2020 (aged 80) New York City, U.S. |
| Spouse |
Raymond Sasson (divorced) |
| Partner | |
Early life and education
Lois Sasson was born Lois Diane Kahaner on April 28, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York City.[1] Sol, her father, imported fine lace, and Helen (Seiden) Kahaner, her mother, was a homemaker. Lois grew up in Jamaica Estates in Queens, New York City. She went to Mount Ida Junior College in Newton, Massachusetts, and then New York University.[1]
Career
Her career in jewelry design began to grow in the 1970s.[2] Her work was featured in New York magazine.[3] Sasson created high-end jewelry, sometimes designed in partnership with Geoffrey Thomas, sold in stores such as Bergdorf Goodman.[1] She also had some of her work on display in art galleries.[1] By 2015, Sasson became well known for her work with precious stones, encrusted cufflinks, and tuxedo button covers. On Valentine's Day that year a set of men's jewelry called "The Ambassador Set" went on sale for $16,000.[2]
Philanthropy
Sasson designed and donated "Compassion" cufflinks in support of the Center for the Advancement of Women. She also donated 35% of jewelry sales received at a benefit for a woman with aplastic anemia in 2013.[4]
Personal life
Her early marriage to Raymond Sasson ended in divorce.[1] Lois lived with her partner, singer Lesley Gore ("It's My Party"), whom she started dating in the mid-1980s, for 33 years,[2] until Gore's death in 2015.[1]
Sasson died from the effects of COVID-19 in New York City on December 30, 2020.[1] She was 80, and her only surviving family member was her sister Susan Kahaner.[1]
