Define Yourself with Maria Diakos Maria Diakos. Not just another designer name. Maria believes in surrounding yourself with beautiful pieces… pieces that define who you are. Born and raised in Brisbane, Australia, by hard working, passionate parents, it seems no surprise that we find Maria not only designing, but hand making, each piece of her collection. Maria strives for perfection in each item she creates. This attention detail gives a rare and unique quality to all of her pieces, which is precisely how she wants it. Her passion for her jewels began in early 2006 when she discovered original and hand-crafted pieces were hard to find. So, she set about making them herself. Today, Maria sources her materials from around the world. A favourite is the “Karen Tribes”  in Thailand where locals create hand-beaten pure silver components. “It’s a very special feeling to know that my love for their hard work  keeps their tribes supported and educated. I also receive regular  updates and photos of how their culture is growing and surviving  from our support.” Maria spends most of her time in a beautifully appointed home studio in the  hub of Fortitude Valley. Her strongest support and inspiration comes from husband Billy and ‘Moussouri’ her Japanese Shiba puppy. ‘My family unit is my lucky charm we work together on everything.’ Maria continues to supply specialist stores with unique pieces and is already attracting a lot of attention and demand.