Philosophy All I ever wanted was to create jewelry that could successfully blend a unique reality out of my inspirations and life experiences. I still have the privilege of doing so, loving every moment of it. The pieces I create are a peek-a-boo treat, between nouveau vintage and modernity, reflecting both my dedication to traditional craft of jewelry and a flair for the unexpected, a voyage into antique opulence with a twist. Each collection speaks volumes without saying too much – a lingering tale that is energized by the women who wear these pieces. Intriguing combinations and a driving passion for old-school jewelry techniques give rise to unique, one-off pieces characterized by movement, originality, fluidity and light. Inspiration is bountiful as are materials – my aim was and always will be, to fuse those elements together through delicate design, excellent craft finesse and technical virtuosity. I work with gold, precious and semi-precious stones, corals, shells, traditional and not-so traditional materials combining them in order to create a bespoke, unexpected message every time.
ScarabĂŠes de BeautĂŠ This collection, designed for Galerie BSL in Paris, revolves around the mythical properties of the sacred scarab and its innate beauty. The pieces are centred on a collection of preserved scarab specimens from the Philippines, Peru, Costa Rica, Thailand and Madagascar set in gold and diamonds. This series of one-off art pieces combines this unique source of inspiration with an ultra-modern perspective.
Hive The Hive collection is a precious interpretation of those dazzling moments when light caresses the stones. Threads of light help showcase the intricate setting and the round sculptured forms. A lace-like gold lattice boldly embraces the translucent precious stones. The pieces include pink-gold based rings, bracelets and earrings, set with rose cut white brilliants, topaz, amethyst and pearls, comprising an almost-provocative series.
Tu es partout Lito’s latest collection with hand-painted enamels by a Russian iconographer crafted in silver and pink gold results in a unique piece each time, as it playfully winks at the world!
Peacock The peacock’s symbolism of good fortune transcends this collection; a starting point in Lito’s jewelry-making journey. Inspiration was drawn from the feathers of this magnificent creature for a collection of contemporary classics. The pieces resonate passion with clear Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences combined with lively enamel-based colours, sensuous curves and bold designs. A collection in silver and gold intertwined with semi-precious stones that celebrate the libertine in you every season.
Candy This collection fuses the delicacy of a sweet-shop with the virtuosity of fine jewelry. A series of candy-like explosions rich in colour and brilliance – a precious feast for the eyes. Voluminous and colourful, the overall sensation is vibrant, upbeat and refreshing.
I do Hand-carved coral roses replace diamonds in this collection of engagement rings with a twist.
Bio Lito Karakostanoglou opened her first “Open Studio” in 1999 showcasing primarily one-off pieces with a variety of materials and styles. In spite of her instant success, in 2004 Lito moves to Paris to complete her training and for two years she studied sculpture at the Ecole Nationale des Beaux-Arts de Paris, and technical drawing at the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie et Orfèvrerie. She went on to create unique pieces of jewelry for the fashion shows of Kenzo (2005) and those of Jean Paul Gaultier for the couture and “prêt-à-porter” collections (2006). From India to Mexico, Japan or Africa, Lito travels the world in search of magnificent stones and original materials. With the persistence of an artist and the inspired touch of a talented craftsman, Lito has succeeded in creating enchanted pieces that communicate with nature while at the same time seducing those who wear them, turning them into instant collectables. Her work reflects her fusion of the old-school feel of traditional jewellery - making with contemporary influences, ushering a new era into the craft.
Since 2007, she has been living in Athens once again, where she has re-opened her atelier-boutique under the name “Cabinet des Curiosities” in the centre of the city. In 2011, Lito launched her own wholesale distribution company catering to clients in Greece, France, UK, Cyprus and Japan. In recent years, Lito’s work is reaching global markets through carefully planned steps and collaborations. Her pieces have been included in the portfolio of galleries and stores around Europe including the influential Galerie BSL and White Bird Fine Jewellery both in Paris, France as well as H.P. France in Tokyo, Japan and Cube in Nicosia, Cyprus. As of fall/winter 2012, Lito is collaborating with Liberty in London, UK, Boutique 1 in Dubai, UAE, La Grande Boutique in Aix En Provence and Gas by Marie in Paris and St. Tropez, France. Her work is also being showcased in Olivier Dupon’s new book by Thames & Hudson Ltd entitled ‘The new Jewellers’. The book is an anthology of rising talent in the field of jewellery creation across the globe, introducing the most emblematic new designers.
Art Direction U&I lalagas@youandi.gr Photography Costas Satlanis, Apostolis Koukousis
Lito Boutique 25, Irodotou Street, 10674 Athens - Greece +30 210 7295 177 Golden Nine Wholesale 1, Karori Street, 10551 Athens - Greece info@lito-jewelry.com +30 210 3219 749