While already successful as a self-taught designer, Lito wanted to deepen her foundation of knowledge so in 2004 she took a break from running her studio to move to Paris to study sculpture and life drawing at Ecole Nationale des Baux-Arts, and then lost wax technique and technical drawing at the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Bijouterie, Joaillerie et Orfevrerie. It was during this time that Lito created pieces for the storied runways of Kenzo and Jean Paul Gaultier while also designing handbag charms for Zadig & Voltaire. Upon her return to Athens in 2007, Lito re-opened her shop under the new moniker, “Cabinets of Curiosities.”

Each piece in Lito’s extensive collection is imbued with a sense of wonder and reflects nature’s spontaneity and freedom. Working closely with a team of carefully selected master craftswomen and craftsmen, from inception to final production, her jewelry is completely handcrafted with each collection assigned a master craftsperson to ensure meticulous attention to detail and exceptional quality control. In her work, classic themes and traditional fabrication techniques are interpreted through a contemporary lens. Symbolism is prominent throughout her body of work, showcasing Lito’s belief in the power of fine jewelry to offer comfort, instill a sense of confidence or act as a reminder of many of life’s most poignant events.

One of Lito’s most recent collection, Il Paradiso, pays homage to Art Deco design. Transforming the energy of sacred ancient symbols and creatures into companions, the collection features rose cut sapphires, tourmalines, opals, diamonds, chrysoprase, moonstones, coral and chalcedony in 14k and 18k gold. Lito’s signature Tu es Partout collection is a reimagination of the iconic evil eye intended to ward off the jealousy of others. In her version of this classic amulet, the eyes are hand-painted by a Russian iconographer working from a small village outside of Moscow, and then enameled, encased in gold and adorned with precious gemstones. The hyperreal quality of the eye seems to consistently follow you and helps the wearer achieve inner balance and a sense of protection.