Ancient Greek jewellery has had a substantial and meaningful influence on my creative design journey. researching and discovering more about ancient civilisations has captured my heart.

Much of the jewellery made in the Hellenistic Period (c.323 BCE-31 BCE) was made from Gold, gemstones, semi-precious stones, pearls. The ornamental designs included motifs involving Greek Gods, plants and animals. Animal motifs were as common as those of the gods. 

Through trade, travel and conquest the Greeks of the Bronze Age were influenced by other cultures of the Mediterranean, mythos, science, medicine, cultural practises and costumes. Style and technique was formed in Egypt and Syria, and the designs invented by Phoenicians and made popular by Etruscans. The middle East, North Africa and Asia were popular countries to seek and source gemstones. The most popular gemstones were Amethyst, Pearls, Chalcedony, Cornelian, Garnet and Emeralds.

Artists and craftsmen amalgamated popular motifs and symbols to meet the demand for pendants and pins, rings and earrings in the Persian fashion empire. Jewellery was a reflection of wealth and power of nobility of rulers. Complex designs were worn as a symbol of status and protection. 

Heritage pieces are a lasting cross cultural tradition. Some buried as the gods passed on, but most choosing to give the treasures to loved ones so the pieces could have ever lasting life. A tradition of sustainability and give new life and meaning to future generations in the bloodline.