Interview with Maria Kotsoni
Maria Kotsoni is a Cyprus-based, award-winning jeweller and micro sculptor, blending antiquity with contemporary design in 18K gold and natural diamonds.
Interview about Smiley Spiked Flexible Cuff Bracelet Design Interview
Designer Interview
28 June 2025
I was born into an artistic family and had a carefree childhood, close to nature, by the sea and amongst the antiquities in Paphos, Cyprus. I guess all that nursed my artistic nature. Since childhood, I was drawn into small three dimensional shapes like pebbles, fragments of ancient ruins and natural forms like shells and insects or plants. I became familiar with all these stimuli by collecting and studying them. By the age of seventeen, I was certain I wanted to become a jewellery designer.
My company was founded in 2005 when I decided to settle in Cyprus after my studies in London and after living and working as a free lance designer and an independent Artist in Athens, Greece.
My design studio and Showroom is situated in the historic center of the Cyprus capital, Nicosia.
My design studio and Showroom is situated in the historic center of the Cyprus capital, Nicosia.
Design for me is my form of expression.
I am a jewellery designe, so that would be jewellery
I cannot speak of a most favorite; all my designs are expressions of ideas and carry on messages, perceived by those who are sensitive enough to appreciate them. I guess I feel more connected to some pieces than others but the connection is unique with each different piece as it expresses a different idea.
My favorite media is gold which I love it’s authentic yellow color, reminiscent of the ancient masterpieces that inspired me.
Usually early in the morning or in the evening when I’m in a relaxed mood and in a quiet environment.
The aesthetics, the originality and the ergonomics.
Its appeal to the public and the positive effect it generates.
The aesthetics, the originality and the ergonomics or the way it harmonizes with its surroundings.
To have a positive impact on both. To generate positive feelings and actions.
Design is a form of expression for the designer and as long as people are sensitive in perceiving the positive effect it has on them it will always serve a higher purpose.
I have just showcased at the Couture 2025, Las Vegas, U.S.A.
Everything around us can become a source of inspiration, visually, emotionally and mentally. I am very much inspired by the great ancient Civilizations that have left their mark on my homeland, but I am always trying to communicate with people in my time and pass on a message that will be perceived as positive or empowering for generation.
I live in Cyprus and the cultural heritage of my country has inspired me to become a designer and continues to feed my creativity.
The pros are mostly the quality of life for me and my family, a safe environment to raise my children, close to nature and the Mediterranean Sea, small distances and the multicultural environment.
The con is the small population with limited exposure of my work to the public.
The pros are mostly the quality of life for me and my family, a safe environment to raise my children, close to nature and the Mediterranean Sea, small distances and the multicultural environment.
The con is the small population with limited exposure of my work to the public.
A designer can be the soul of your company’s product. A successful product is one people can relate to and for that the designers skill to communicate with the public through their work is key in its success.
The idea is captured on paper by a quick sketch and then development begins.
To be original and innovative as well as aesthetically appealing through time.
Being creative is a need that must be fulfilled often by making sacrifices.
Originality and innovation, a sense of identity or philosophy behind the idea, aesthetics and ergonomics.
Problem solving and originality
My little notebook and mechanical pencil, always in my bag to put down any idea that comes into my head where ever I may be.
With difficulty and by sleeping less.
That is relevant, depending on the complexity of the piece
Every experience is important because there is always something to learn
People who appreciate my work of course
To create something new by following my intuition and leave a positive impact to future generations,
I develop my designs myself but always seek technical advice from associates that I assign with specific tasks.
I would rather not talk about my new projects until they are ready to be presented to the public.
By email, a message or a call.