Greek mythology jewelry borrows from a short list of gods, places and symbols that the ancient Greeks themselves wore, carved and offered at temples. Each one carried a meaning: protection, light, fidelity, peace. The Ancient Greek Edit is named for them, and this is the story behind each name.
The guardians: Medusa and the aegis
Medusa was a Gorgon whose gaze turned onlookers to stone. After Perseus beheaded her, Athena set her face on the aegis, her shield. The Greeks then painted the Gorgon's face on shields, doorways and amulets to turn harm away. In jewelry she is a protector, not a villain. See the Medusa Ring with Onyx and the Aegis Ring with Ruby.
The light: Helios and Phoebus
Helios drove the sun across the sky in a chariot each day. Phoebus, meaning "bright," was the name the Greeks gave Apollo as god of light. The Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, was a statue of Helios. The Helios Earrings, Phoebus Earrings and Rhodes Necklace take their names from this line of myth.
The goddesses: Hera, Leda and Iris
Hera was queen of the gods and protector of marriage. Leda, queen of Sparta, was the mother of Helen of Troy. Iris was the messenger goddess, the rainbow linking sky and earth. See the Hera Earrings, Leda Earrings and Iris Necklace.
The sacred places and plants: Delphi, the olive and the cypress
Delphi was the seat of Apollo's oracle and, to the Greeks, the center of the world. The olive was Athena's gift to Athens, and olive wreaths crowned victors at Olympia. The cypress was sacred to the underworld and to remembrance. See the Delphi Necklace, Olea Earrings and Cypress Earrings.
How to wear mythology jewelry now
Choose the story you want to carry, and let one piece hold it. Pair it with plain chains or small hoops so the symbol stays legible. Every piece in The Ancient Greek Edit is cross-brushed 18k gold vermeil, from $40.
FAQ
What does Medusa jewelry mean? Protection. Her face was used on Greek shields and amulets to ward off harm.
Which Greek god represents the sun? Helios, the sun itself; Apollo, also called Phoebus, as god of light.
What is a good Greek mythology gift? A piece named for a figure the person connects with, given with a line about the story.