For a world-traveling archaeologist with a love for jewelry art and a passion for shopping locally, exploring the vibrant city of Athens, Greece is a must. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Athens offers a unique shopping experience for those seeking to add a touch of Greek elegance to their jewelry collection.
Here are a few pics from our recent trip to Athens. This is my second favorite city in the World. I will share a similar blog soon on my favorite and share it here.
The History of Greek Jewelry
Greek jewelry has a long and storied history dating back to ancient times. From intricate gold pieces worn by royalty to simple silver adornments worn by commoners, Greek jewelry reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks. Today, modern Greek jewelry designers draw inspiration from these ancient traditions to create stunning pieces that blend the old with the new.
Themes in Traditional Greek Jewelry Making
Traditional Greek jewelry often features motifs inspired by Greek mythology, nature, and geometric patterns. Symbols such as the evil eye, the Greek key, and the olive branch are commonly found in Greek jewelry, each carrying its own unique meaning and significance.
Best Types of Jewelry to Buy in Athens
When shopping for jewelry in Athens, look for pieces that showcase the beauty of Greek craftsmanship. Opt for handcrafted gold or silver jewelry adorned with semi-precious stones like turquoise, amethyst, or coral. Statement pieces such as intricate cuffs, bold rings, and delicate earrings are popular choices among visitors looking to bring a piece of Greece home with them.
Local Markets in Athens
Images of Monastiraki Market where many amazing treasures await:
For a truly authentic shopping experience, head to the local markets in Athens where you can find a wide selection of handmade jewelry from local artisans. Monastiraki Flea Market and Plaka are popular destinations for jewelry shopping, offering a variety of styles and designs to suit every taste. On our last visit to Athens, my son and I were struck by the diversity of antiquities and art at Monastiraki Market, some of which you can see in our YouTube Vlog below:
Top 5 Local Jewelry Artists in Athens
A detailed search of the internet in preparation for our upcoming buying trip to Greece produced the following list of unique Artist for us to check out for inspiration and possible collaboration with Victoria:
- Maria Mastori - Known for her contemporary designs inspired by Greek mythology.
- Lito - Specializes in unique, handcrafted pieces featuring precious stones.
- Ileana Makri - Renowned for her intricate designs incorporating symbols and talismans.
- Elena Votsi - Celebrated for her sculptural jewelry inspired by ancient Greek architecture.
- Nikos Koulis - Famed for his modern interpretations of classic Greek motifs.
Discover Greek Jewelry at Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry
After returning from our current buying trip in Europe, Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry is excited to introduce our customers to a stunning collection of Greek jewelry and ancient coins. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Greek craftsmanship by exploring our curated selection of handpicked pieces that capture the essence of Athens.