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Elena Syraka created her first pieces of jewellery while at school, without realising this would ultimately be her calling. After studying at the Veloudakis Fashion School in Athens, she went on to ESMOD in Paris, where she decided to focus on jewellery design. Her official debut into the field was in 1995 and about a decade later, she decided to focus exclusively on fine jewellery. Her designs balance between opposite elements, such as the masculine and the feminine, the strict and the fluid.
‘Wing of Hermes’ an 18K gold ring with diamonds | Elena Syraka Jewellery
With a passion for ancient civilisations and a deep interest in Greek history and heritage, Elena offers a contemporary interpretation of classical symbols, which is apparent in her Idols collection, that references the ancient Cycladic civilisation. Her most recent Nour creations are inspired by exhibits from the Islamic branch of the Benaki Museum in Athens. Elena’s iconic pieces echo her belief that a jewel can add a distinct sense of style to even the most simple of outfits.
‘Horn of Artemis’ an 18K gold pendant with black agate | Elena Syraka Jewellery
Elena’s jewellery is handcrafted in Athens and various collections come in limited edition numbered pieces. She has now reached her 20th anniversary as a jewellery designer and is proud to see her Nour collection being exhibited in major museums around the world. She is currently working on a new collection inspired by Minoan and Mycenaean antiquities.
You can find Elena Syraka creations at selected retailers and stores around the world, including Hellenis Jewellery in New York’s Olympic Tower or at Ileana Makri’s eponymous shop in Kolonaki, Athens.
Ileana Makri: 13-15, Patriarchou Ioakim, Kolonaki, Athens.
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This video forms part of a series developed by LoveGreece.com that is inspired by the dynamism and creativity of the Greek entrepreneurial spirit. Founded in 2013, the initiative aims to boost and promote Greece’s image abroad by profiling talented and successful entrepreneurs and professionals. With their ethos and vision, these pioneering Greeks are an important part of Greece worth sharing with the world. Powered by Gina Mamidaki, founder of the G & A Mamidakis Foundation.
Credits: Direction & Post Production: Alexis Skoulidis, Camera/Director of Photography: George Georgoulakis, Production Sound Mixer: Aris Mystridis, Make-up artist: Roula Lymperopoulou, Interview & Texts: Paris Kormaris, Project Manager: Agapi Tsakpinoglou.
