Smyrneika - Mediterranean Jewellery

In the coastal regions of the Mediterranean, jewellery is often handwoven with beads by women of all ages who love to wear them both daily and on special occasions as well as gift them to their loved ones. Colourful floral motifs and evil eye charms reminiscent of the freshness of the sea, the warmth of the sun, and the lazy calmness of the spring and summer are hallmarks of traditional Mediterranean designs, which are made possible by labour intensive weaving techniques passed down through generations. I have learnt these beading techniques from my mother and adding some modern designs to the traditional ones, I wanted to bring a piece of the Mediterranean with me to the UK.