Local jewelry store celebrates 15 years

By Danyce Hill
Staff Writer
Oct. 1, 2009

Photo by Kayloni Wyatt

Cynas Jewelers, located on E. Third Street. in Pembroke, features Lumbee heritage jewelry. The jewelry store offers a 10 percent discount to students and faculty upon presenting proper identification.

The Pembroke jewelry store, Cynas, offers jewelry based on Lumbee heritage, and they are celebrating 15 years in business on Oct. 17.

Cynas Jewelers and also Luncidas Jewelry Booth, of Fairmont, represent the Lumbee culture with fine arts and jewelry created by representatives from each of their stores.

Cynas took advantage of Pembroke Day recently on Sept. 9 “to meet the students, faculty and staff of UNCP at Pembroke to let them know that we are here for them and that we offer a 10 percent discount to students and faculty with proper identification,” Timma Locklear, manager, said.

Cynas Jewelers designs “are created with intentions to preserve the heritage of the Lumbee by Tim (TPL 2) Locklear Jr.,” Locklear said.

Lumbee traditions
Locklear, aka TPL 2, unveiled the Lumbee ring in October 2000, which reveals the pinecone patchwork.

The Lumbee Indians are the only tribe to use the pinecone patchwork insignia.

The beautiful patchwork design was woven in quilts and rugs when the community would host a quilting bee.

Along with arrowheads and the two feathers representing freedom, the Lumbee tradition is carried on through the designs of Locklear.

Cynas carries other jewelry that is not created by TPL 2 but is selected to please the customers.

Cynas’ location is 103 E. Third St., Pembroke. The owner is Cynthia Locklear.

Lucindas Jewelry Booth creations are created by Lucinda Oxendine.

Lucindas displayed earrings, rings and necklaces made of fine silver and gold plated chain accented with diamond, turquoise and other natural minerals at Pembroke Day.

“In a small sitting in my store I create what I call my favorite and in demand pieces for my customers,” Oxendine said.

There are many other jewelry pieces that are purchased from wholesale representatives as well in the store for sale.

Ruth Hunt, a customer of Lucindas from Fayetteville, said Lucindas is her favorite jeweler. A native of Robeson County, she said she has been purchasing from Lucindas for years.

Lucindas Jewelry Booth is located at 412 N. Walnut St., Fairmont. The store is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.