Inspired by timeless fine jewelry and high-relief coin masterpieces of the ancient world, Elizabeth Locke is a Virginia-based jeweler and former editor of Town-and-Country who creates beautiful glass and gemstone intalgio pieces set in 19k gold.

Though most modern gemstones are facet- or cabochon-cut to enhance their brilliance, ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan gem cutters would often polish a flat working surface into a gemstone and then etch a portrait, figure, or motif into the surface. The light-scattering qualities in the specific gemstone give the image dimensionality, bringing the figures to life in the heart of the gemstone.

Inspired by this, and the organic hammered finish of ancient jewelry, Elizabeth Locke has left an indelible mark on the modern jewelry scene with her Venetian glass intaglio pieces. Using ancient molds, she recreates these beautiful masterpieces and sets them in hand-made 19k gold settings with diamond and gemstone accents.