Elizabeth Locke Sterling Silver Gilt Acanthus Leaf Charm
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant) · Elizabeth Locke. Known for 19k gold and sterling silver jewelry, Locke founded her brand in 1988, specializing in Neo-Classical revivals and high-end artisanal craftsmanship inspired by Roman and Greek antiquities.
Pattern: Acanthus/Scallop Leaf pattern from the sterling silver collection, typically gold-plated (vermeil). Introduced in the late 1990s or early 2000s.
Type
Jewelry (Charm/Pendant)
Maker
Elizabeth Locke. Known for 19k gold and sterling silver jewelry, Locke founded her brand in 1988, specializing in Neo-Classical revivals and high-end artisanal craftsmanship inspired by Roman and Greek antiquities.
Material
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with heavy 18k-24k gold plating). The visual evidence shows the warm luster of gold over the solid density of a silver base.
Dimensions
Estimated 25mm height (excluding jump ring) by 22mm width. Weight is approximately 8-12 grams of solid sterling silver.
Description
A heavy and luxurious sterling silver gilt charm by celebrated designer Elizabeth Locke. This piece features a beautifully sculpted fan-like acanthus leaf with organic, rounded lobes that catch the light through deep undulations. The warm gold-over-silver finish gives it the appearance of ancient Roman gold, while the distinct '25' engraving may signify a limited edition, a silver anniversary piece, or a specific collection number. It is a substantial, tactile piece of jewelry that exemplifies Locke’s signature 'chunky' yet refined aesthetic.
Key Features
Hand-engraved '25' numeral; heavy-gauge precious metal weight; classical fluted leaf design; signature high-karat gold plating signature color.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Sterling Silver .925 base with heavy 18k-24k gold plating). The visual evidence shows the warm luster of gold over the solid density of a silver base.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish gold-plated finish with deep fluting and repoussé-style ribbing. The design is a stylized acanthus or shell motif. Features an engraved '25' on the lower right lobe.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The front displays an engraved numeral '25'. Expected marks on the reverse or bale include 'EL' (maker's mark), '925' or 'STERLING' for purity, and sometimes a 'THAILAND' mark where many larger Locke silver pieces were hand-finished.
Construction Details
Lost-wax cast followed by extensive hand-finishing. The piece is solid (not hollow), featuring a jump ring attachment for a charm bracelet or necklace chain.
Functional Features
Single suspension point via a circular jump ring; designed to be worn as a decorative charm on a modular jewelry system.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a jewelry item; the suspension loop is securely soldered but the jump ring is open-ended for attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional casting quality with no visible mold lines; the hand-finishing is evident in the smoothness of the curves and the crispness of the engraved numbers.
Authentication Indicators
The font of the '25' is consistent with Locke's hand-engraving style. The weight and depth of the casting are hallmarks of authentic Elizabeth Locke production, which avoids 'thin' or flimsy constructions.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in the USA (Virginia/New York); manufactured in Thailand. Locke’s workshops in Bangkok are renowned for maintaining high-quality hand-hammered and hand-engraved traditions.
Era & Period
Modern / Neo-Classical Revival (Late 20th to Early 21st Century). It reflects the 'Grand Tour' aesthetic of the 19th century updated for modern luxury wear.
Age Estimate
Circa 2000-2015. The style and hallmark font (specifically the engraved '25') suggest a production within the last 20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the elevation of 'charms' from simple trinkets to high-end luxury collectibles. It demonstrates the enduring appeal of Classical Greek and Roman architectural motifs in American fashion.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface micro-scratches consistent with light wear. The gold plating (vermeil) appears thick and intact without significant 'bleed-through' of the silver base metal.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD. Value is driven by brand prestige and the substantial weight of the silver base, rather than just the gold plating.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical dips which will strip the gold plating. Use a soft sunshine cloth or microfiber. Store in a tarnish-resistant pouch. Do not wear in chlorinated water.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger charms (usually 18k and more expensive); Verdura shell motifs; David Yurman vermeil pendants (usually thinner/lighter in construction).
Interesting Facts
The numeral '25' frequently appears on Locke items celebrating 25 years of the brand (founded 1988), putting this specific production around 2013. Locke's jewelry is often worn by celebrities and high-profile collectors of 'architectural' jewelry.