Meet the founder, Niki!
Niki hails from Thessaloniki, Greece, with roots tracing...
Step back in time and embrace your inner Greek hero, crafting your unique ring. Learn the ancient art of ring-making, guided by Despina, a Cretan craftswoman with over 12 years of hands-on experience and understand the history of Greek jewelry. You will experience hands-on techniques at this workshop like cutting, forming, soldering and polishing. Moreover, you will browse Despina’s unique collection of handmade Stéfana at her atelier, which are wedding wreaths used in Greek (and not only) Orthodox ceremonies. Become the Greek Lord of the Rings and create your own ring, a tangible connection to the Greek artisan legacy!
The jewelry designer, a local craftswoman from Crete island, welcomes you to her atelier and workshop space in Athens, the capital of Greece. Experience true Greek hospitality as you get to know your fellow participants while enjoying a welcome spread of refreshing beverages, including juice and coffee, alongside homemade biscuits and traditional Greek sweets.
Your experience starts with a brief workspace tour, locating all necessary materials and equipment to ensure a seamless hands-on experience. You will be introduced to the machines and processes involved in the workshop, and then, under the expert guidance of the skilled artisan, you will start your own ring-making journey.
The experience begins with a theoretical introduction to ancient Greek jewelry, providing fundamental insights into the rich historical background. You will be introduced to the world of raw materials, learning about the natural state of metals and how they are transformed into exquisite jewelry. Furthermore, you will explore the contrast between traditional jewelry-making methods, passed down through generations and the mass production methods employed in modern jewelry manufacturing. A part of the introduction will be dedicated to exploring Greek Orthodox Wedding Wreaths (Stéfana). You will uncover their origins and symbolism within the context of Greek Orthodox weddings, understand the evolution of Stéfana-making throughout the ages and discover the unique characteristics of the wedding wreaths crafted at our workspace, setting them apart from others. The practical session is where the magic truly happens! You will begin by choosing your preferred materials, such as metal wire or plate, to craft your unique ring. Under the guidance of Despoina, you will engage yourself in a series of techniques, including cutting and forming the metal. Then you will experience the art of soldering and polishing, carefully shaping and refining your creation until you have a one-of-a-kind ring to wear with pride!
When the ring-making process ends, you will have the opportunity to explore the atelier and the curated handmade selection of jewelry, stéfana and porcelain jewelry trays. Enjoy exclusive discounts on souvenirs and own a piece of Greek heritage!
Step back in time and embrace your inner Greek hero, crafting your unique ring. Learn the ancient art of ring-making, guided by Despina ...