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.