Breathing new life into dying Cyprus craft

Nicosia’s old town is a place where the past and present intertwine in the narrow streets and ageing workshops, where tools worn from years of use tell stories of disappearing arts. But there are some artists making sure these traditional crafts stay alive, and Efthymia is one of them. Working in the heart of this city, she ensures these stories continue to be told – through silver, gold and personal resilience.

“It’s a dying art, but I’m determined to help change that,” she says.

Efthymia has made it her mission to breathe new life into the centuries-old tradition of jewellery making on the island. Her journey began far from Cyprus following top UK design programmes: a BA in 3D Design at Bath Spa University and a community learning course in jewellery making at Bath College. Each step shaped her unique approach to jewellery design, but it was the decision to return to Cyprus in 2020, amid the global pandemic, that became a pivotal moment in her career.

“I moved back to Cyprus not entirely sure where I fitted in in the world of jewellery. I had learned a lot, but I hadn’t yet found my voice,” she says. “What I did find, though, was a community of older artisans – most of them men – who had been practising for decades. Meeting them, hearing their stories, and buying second-hand tools from their workshops opened my eyes to the reality of the profession on the island.”

Her time walking the old centre of Nicosia introduced her to the silversmiths who had spent their lives perfecting their craft, only to watch the industry fade as fewer young people showed interest. This experience not only inspired her cemented her goal: to revitalise the jewellery-making profession on the island by infusing it with new energy and modern ideas, while still respecting its roots.

One of the most significant figures in her journey is Lakis Paphitis, an established goldsmith who became Efthymia’s mentor. “Lakis taught me the art of fine jewellery,” she says. “He didn’t just teach me technical skills – he taught me patience and precision. Working with someone so experienced was a humbling experience, but it also gave me the confidence to push my own boundaries.”

But it is not just Paphitis that impacted her, she’s built her entire practice on working with local artisans, creating a community around her craft. “Being part of this community has shaped my approach to jewellery making. Cyprus may have a small market, but it’s full of wisdom. You just have to find it.” Still, it hasn’t been an easy road.

As a young woman entering a traditionally male-dominated industry, Efthymia has faced her share of challenges. “I was rejected multiple times when trying to find partners in the field, and my decisions were often questioned. But I learned to stand my ground, to be firm and to push through.”

Her work is dedicated to storytelling. Her latest collection, for example, draws inspiration from a short story she wrote about a mermaid who dreams of having wings. “I researched mythical creatures like Sirens and hand-carved pieces inspired by them and the ocean,” she explains. “It’s not just about creating beautiful jewellery; it’s about creating pieces that carry a sense of intimacy and connection. Every piece I make is part of me.”

Efthymia’s design philosophy doesn’t just revolve around aesthetics. It is deeply rooted in sustainability. She runs her business on a made-to-order model, which minimises waste and allows her to work at a slower, more deliberate pace. “Sustainability is at the core of everything I do,” she says. “I want to create jewellery that lasts, both in terms of design and material.

“The younger generation is more aware and demanding of sustainable products, but there’s still a long way to go in Cyprus. There’s a lot of greenwashing happening, and as designers, we have a duty to educate our customers. I try to be as transparent as possible, showing the behind-the-scenes process of making my jewellery. It’s slow, it’s meticulous, and that’s what makes it valuable.”

As her business grows, Efthymia hopes to use more ethically produced materials, such as recycled silver and ethically sourced gemstones, with the goal of eventually creating a supply chain that benefits other local jewellers as well. “If I can find suppliers that meet these standards, it won’t just benefit me – it’ll benefit the entire community of jewellers here.”

“I’ve learned that nothing can be achieved without community. I’ve had the support of so many people, from mentors to other jewellers, and I want to pass that on. It’s why I’m so passionate about helping other young jewellers, especially women, find their footing,” she says. “The market may be small, but that means there’s room for innovation and growth. This past year has taught me to view Cyprus as a sandbox to play in rather than a desert.”