Hellen Kostamis

Lilika Fine Jewelry is a Montreal-based jewelry brand founded by Hellen Kostamis, whose path to jewelry has taken her from Mexico to Asia and, eventually, Canada.

Hellen first discovered jewelry making in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, before continuing to develop her craft while living in Asia. These different places and experiences have gradually shaped her approach to design and the distinctive visual language behind Lilika Fine Jewelry.

Her pieces are defined by organic forms, fluid curves, and an unmistakable sense of movement. There is often something slightly unexpected in their proportions and silhouettes — a detail we particularly love about her work.

Rather than relying on perfectly symmetrical or conventional forms, Hellen's designs have a softness and spontaneity to them. Curves shift, stones become part of the composition, and familiar jewelry forms are given a more playful, individual character.

Each piece is made in Montreal using recycled precious metals refined in Canada, alongside natural, conflict-free diamonds and coloured gemstones sourced responsibly from small, family-run businesses.

Lilika jewelry is playful, expressive, and never too conventional. Each piece has a sense of individuality and spontaneity, balancing refined craftsmanship with an unexpected, artistic spirit.

We asked Hellen our eight questions about her inspirations, her creative process, and the journey behind Lilika Fine Jewelry. Read on to discover more about her work.

Who are the artists you love the most, who inspire you or accompany you? Do they influence your work, and if so, in what way?

I think photography and fashion inspire my work. It started back in my teen years when I was obsessed with magazines of all sorts; fashion, design, travel you name it. I spent hours reading editorials and looking at pictures. This interest in photography has stayed with me. I particularly like the work of Ansel Adams, Fan Ho and Keith McGregor. I’m especially inspired by landscape photography. The jewelry I create are often microcosms of a picture I have seen or taken.

How do you deal with times when you feel stuck or frustrated in your work?

Do you have any strategies for overcoming these obstacles?

I have yet to experience a creative block. I do however feel that my hands do not keep up with my brain. I have piles of sketchbooks of ideas that I am eager to share.
I am still learning to take things one step at a time. I lean into yoga, exercise, TCM to keep myself balanced.

If you could be reincarnated as a flower, which one would you choose and why?

An orchid.
They always remind me of my time living in Asia and how revered orchids are for being elegant and auspicious.

How do you think art can have an impact on society or on people's lives?

How does your own work fit into this larger context?

I believe art has an impact on life in both quiet and obvious ways. Art reflects society but can also shape it.
It serves as a vehicle for something as big as societal change or as personal as individual shifts.
For me art is above all personal expression and freedom.

If you could meet one person from history, who would it be and why?

My maternal grandparents. They are the single biggest inspiration in my creative journey.
They were both very talented with their hands. My grandfather was a coppersmith. He created those huge church bells you see. My grandmother made the most beautiful handmade carpets and quits. Although I did know them, I would love to step back in time and watch them in situ.