CYCLADES is an extended collection of our former SHALES collection, where our iconic signature necklace evolved into new artifacts. Created while having the history, the geomorphology, and the culture of the islands in mind, all 5 items feature a different characteristic of profound symbolism and interpretation. For instance, the necklace - forming a perfect circle around the neck - depicts most of the islands belonging to the Cyclades, surrounding us in the way summer memories do. The organic forms of the land are meticulously captured via digital microsculpting, linked together in one polymorphic 18k gold piece, of seemingly random scattered golden shales, all excellently mismatching with one another, like they actually do in reality. The 4 rings are carefully hand-sculpted, meant to imitate the fossils left on the shales, as if revived imprints of nature are kept in time. First and foremost, the octopus is a symbol of the sea, the Mediterranean lifestyle and alimentation. It is also a powerful decorative symbol often seen in artistic products such as vases, murals, etc and a basic element of commercial activity in the vaster area. Golden octopus jewels were usually found in the tombs of princesses or royals of ancient times. Then, the scarab - especially the green kind - is known for signaling longevity and rebirth, coming all the way from the Middle East to affect the Greeks in the most peculiar ways, like centrifugal observations. It was also worshiped as a live jewel, since used from gem engravers as a study of forms. Stones were also sculpted in the shape of scarabs meant to be gifted to pregnant women for protection. Next, the bee, that brings the key ingredient of sweetness from the gods to all humans. Known for its hard-working performance, the bee produces honey, which is protective and therapeutic amongst its other empowering properties. The bee (Mélissa) was the nurturer of Zeus and the bees that came from goddess Demitra’s body were worshiped as nymphs, priestesses, etc. Last but not least, the wild olive branch used to make the “kotinos”/wreath of the most honourable distinction offered to athletes in the Olympic Games. For this rewarding tribute of respect, the olive branches came from the trees outside of Zeus’s temple, cut only with a golden pair of scissors. All items of the collection are made in 18k gold, as they are meant to be passed onto future generations, just like narratives should.

by Méri Charitonidi