Eleni Preston

Goldsmith Eleni Prieston fashions 22k gold jewelry with precious and semi-precious stones in the Classical tradition. Eleni Priestons' signature style can best be described as Neo-Byzantine in that she does not replicate historically correct pieces of wearable jewelry, but infuses her own organic influence in her classical work through the techniques she has worked in and developed over the past 25 years. Choosing to alloy her own gold, and roll and draw out the sheet and wire before fabricating a piece, Eleni ensures that each piece has its' own distinct voice. Another dimension of this classical work is the labor intensive application of tiny gold spheres, a surface embellishment known as granulation. This technique dates back to the Etruscan and Byzantine Empires. An ancient essence permeates the jewelry which is alloyed in the studio, gold sheet is rolled out and formed and fabricated, chains are woven by hand....just as it was 2000 years ago, wearable work comes alive from raw material. Opals, pearls, apatite, uvarovite garnets, watermelon rhodochrosite are just some of the stones Eleni uses. Eleni Prieston is turned on by color and it is represented in a lively way in all her work.

In addition to focusing on natural and freshwater pearls, which each have a unique shape thereby dictating a unique finished piece, Eleni Prieston is a Gemological Institute graduate specializing in Diamonds and Opals. Collaborating with clients on a commission basis is a relationship which works for both sides.....Eleni enjoys the input of the client and has satisfied many. Whether resetting their own diamond or stones or executing a design that evolves through collaboration, Eleni guides the process as the possibilities are endless.

Locally, her collection is represented by PRITAM & EAMES Gallery, 27-29 Race Lane, East Hampton, New York. Studio: 631-725-3828 in Sag Harbor, New York.