Process + Materials
Athena uses traditional metalsmithing tools and techniques to handcraft each piece of jewelry. With a jeweler’s saw, she meticulously hand-cuts intricate botanical shapes from sterling silver, often layering the metal to create depth and dimension. Her work explores the contrast of positive and negative space, highlighted through the use of a black patina to accentuate the details.
Materials
Sterling silver is Athena’s primary metal, though some pieces incorporate jeweler’s brass, gold-filled elements, or 23-karat gold foil for added richness. She frequently uses a black patina on her silver creations to emphasize intricate details, bringing her botanical designs to life.
Ethically Sourced
Committed to ethical craftsmanship, Athena ensures that her materials are responsibly sourced. Whenever possible, she works with recycled sterling silver and carefully selects gemstones and metals to minimize the environmental impact of her work. Additionally, she uses a minimal amount of chemicals in her studio, further reducing any negative environmental impact in her creative process.
Craftsmanship Guarantee + Repairs
My craftsmanship is guaranteed. If you have any issues with your piece due to craftsmanship, I am happy to repair it free of charge. I am also happy to repair a piece that is not due to craftsmanship or make lost earring duplicates. Just get in touch and we can work it out.
Jewelry Care
Avoid damage: Take off your jewelry before doing any activity that could damage it, like cleaning, exercising, or bathing. Also, avoid sleeping in your jewelry. 
Keep away from chemicals: Avoid exposing your jewelry to chemicals like chlorine, bleach, hairspray, lotion, and perfume. If your jewelry does come into contact with chemicals, rinse it with water immediately. 
Store safely: Store your jewelry in a soft-lined box or case to prevent scratching. You can also store each piece individually in an airtight box or zip lock. 
Cleaning: Wipe your jewelry with a clean, soft, slightly damp cloth after each wear to remove dirt and lotions. For a deeper clean, you can soak your jewelry in warm soapy water and gently dry it. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a mild dish soap to clean small crevices. 
Protect from light and heat: Avoid exposing your jewelry to too much light and heat, which can damage the color and durability of gemstones. 
Tarnish: Metal will tarnish over time due to a variety of factors like humidity, body oils, etc. Some
people like the antiquity look and some don’t. You can remove tarnish by using a jewelry polishing cloth. I recommend Sunshine polishing cloths.