Macedonian sunburst earrings

It has been a privilege to work with the Vaphiadis family since 2007. They are one of the best manufacturers of sterling silver jewellery in Greece.

The collection is inspired by ancient Greek silver and gold coins, the art and jewellery of the Minoan civilisation, familiar symbolic motifs and images, and the animals that played a significant part in ancient Greek culture.

Known also as the Rays of Vergina and the Macedonian Sunburst, this sixteen rayed motif was the symbol of Philip of Macedon, of his son Alexander the Great, and of the ancient Macedonian Empire.

It appeared on coins and vases, in jewellery and mosaics, in all the different regions of the Greek world. Four rays represent the four elements of earth, water, fire, air, and the other twelve represent the gods of Olympus.

Due to the tragic, sudden death in early 2025 of Ioannis Vaphiadis, who made all this beautiful jewellery, the family's jewellery production has ceased.

This is all the remaining stock that I have. Ioannis was only in his late 50s, was such a lovely man and a dear friend.

I was so lucky to work closely with him for 19 years.If you already have a piece of his jewellery, cherish it.