Ann Angeletti, a well-known jeweler from New Jersey’s Diamond District, has spent most of her life surrounded by the sparkle of gemstones and loyal customers who adore her. After more than a century of living, she’s learned plenty about hard work, discipline, and joy.
In an interview with ABC7 NY, Angeletti shared that her work ethic began early in life. She left school at a young age to help out in her family’s Brooklyn grocery store, where she learned the importance of responsibility and perseverance.
When her husband was drafted during World War II, Ann took on a waitressing job at the Navy Yard to support her family. That experience marked the start of her lifelong career as a hardworking businesswoman who never shied away from new challenges.
After years of working for others, she decided to follow her own dream and opened a small jewelry shop called Curiosity Jewelry in Cresskill, which has become a beloved local fixture ever since.
“If I retire, I would die,” she explained. “I was driving by, the store was for rent, and I called the owner and asked him, how much is the rent, and he said $85 a month in 1964.”
Though the store’s official hours are five days a week, Ann still works six days without fail. She insists that staying active and maintaining good habits are the keys to her long and happy life, emphasizing how important self-care has been throughout her journey.
She added that keeping busy and finding joy in what she does every day is what keeps her going strong. “Make the most of that day. I’m happy working every day.”
According to The Daily Mail, there are around 2,646 centenarians living in New Jersey today. Meanwhile, Newsweek reports that Hawaii has the highest rate of people over 100 in the U.S., with 44.4 centenarians per 100,000 residents.
Whether it’s luck, lifestyle, or a mix of both, Ann’s story reminds many that age doesn’t have to slow a person down. Interestingly, another woman who quite literally “won” in the genetics department made headlines for the same reason.
Maria Branyas Morera, who was officially recognized as the world’s oldest person, lived to be 117 years old before passing away in August 2024.
Researchers later revealed that her extraordinary lifespan was largely attributed to her genes — though many believe her attitude toward life also played a big part, much like Ann’s.
