ATHENS – On the Greek island of Hydra, one boutique stands out as a destination for visitors seeking jewelry with a strong connection to Hellenic heritage: the Elena Votsi boutique. As recently highlighted by The New York Times, Votsi’s shop has become a favored stop for the rich and famous, blending traditional Greek motifs with contemporary design in its unique jewelry and objects.

Votsi, who was raised in Athens and spent her summers on Hydra, infuses her pieces with inspiration from her surroundings and heritage. Her designs, ranging from silver and 18-karat gold jewelry to homeware featuring local imagery like Hydra’s donkeys, are deeply rooted in Greek culture. The evil eye, a symbol prevalent in Greece, appears throughout her work in various forms, paying homage to the country’s traditions of warding off negative energy.

Her boutique, which began as a small room in 1991, has grown to include a larger store in Hydra’s port and another location in Athens. The original shop, however, remains her flagship, with its stone walls painted white to showcase her colorful creations. Votsi’s use of a variety of materials, including gemstones, enamel, shells, and even natural stones, further highlights her connection to the earth and Greece’s natural beauty.

In addition to her unique jewelry, Votsi’s work is also recognized by prestigious cultural institutions in Greece, including the Acropolis Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art. She has created exclusive pieces for these institutions, as well as for the city of Athens and the island of Hydra. Her most renowned design, however, is the Athens Olympic medal, introduced at the 2004 Games and still in use today for the Summer Olympics, including this year’s Paris Games.

Votsi’s work, though rooted in her love for Greek culture, is highly personal and constantly evolving. Her shop on Hydra continues to attract collectors, both for her original designs and her custom creations, which reflect her desire to innovate while staying connected to her roots.