17 North Beach Street
Nantucket, MA 02554
(508) 228-1515
GIFTS FROM THE SEA
THE “SEAQUIN” COLLECTION by Susan Lister Locke.
Well known on Nantucket for her timeless, one-of-a-kind designs, Susan Lister Locke delights once again with the “Seaquin” Collection. With the holiday season upon us, it comes as no surprise that she’s gracing clients with stunning additions that are sure to dazzle. Here, N Magazine chats with the custom jewelry designer about the line, as well as what’s in store for 2024.
What inspired the “Seaquin” collection? Is there a story behind it?
Inspired by our precious oceans and the sea life and urchins that inhabit them, the “Seaquin” Collection has truly morphed from a custom ring, created several years ago for the designer that made my daughter’s wedding gown, into an expansive selection that includes bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings. Oftentimes the pieces are set with diamonds and high-quality semi-precious gems.
What is your favorite piece from the “Seaquin” Collection?
It’s akin to asking me which is my favorite child. I think the simplicity of a single “Seaquin” drop on a chain by itself is just dear. They also work wonderfully with gemstones and my “Sea Stars” in bracelets and earrings as well as in the elaborate Stella Marina Bib necklace.
What does this collection add to the Susan Lister Locke collective that the others don’t have?
I think there is something very unexpected about it; it’s not traditional or sculptural like my Signet rings, yet it’s not “artsy” either. My clients respond well to this collection. It is comfortable to wear and most of it can be layered with other necklaces, chains or bracelets. They can easily go from day to night, casual chic for daytime and subtle sparkle for evenings!
It is whimsical, organic and very versatile. The gold alloy that I use is very rich and enhances any stone that I set into it. Like the ocean—or a favorite song, it can hold a sentimental/special yet different meaning for each person that wears it.
What is your design process from paper to product?
I am a very visual person. As an artist, I love color and use my gemstones as one would use their paints. Sometimes I will sketch a design, but most often I begin with my gemstones and gold elements laid out. My designs can come together very quickly or be a year or more in the making. It just depends on what works together— what enhances the design for the greatest effect and also, and very, very importantly, originality and wearability.
What’s next for Susan Lister Locke?
I have a home and a studio in West Palm Beach, Florida, where I stay for the winter season. It is my “down time” when I can enjoy my friends and family, but it is also my creative time. I will be doing some trunk shows including my annual show at the marvelous Gasparilla Inn over Valentine’s weekend and also continue my WWOW (Wonderful Women on Wednesdays) events that I started this summer. I would like to continue to grow and expand my creative process and be open to new thoughts and ideas.
Anything to add?
Most jewelry, no matter what it is, has a story. So often a client will tell me about the pieces they have inherited but are not wearing. I say let’s recycle them and give them new life so they can be worn and enjoyed again … by them and their children. The sentiment will carry on but in an updated fashion!
I want my designs to stay unique, beautiful and to be worn. They are not trophies to be put on a shelf or in a vault—I want them to be enjoyed by the wearer and all who encounter them. It is an honor for me to create pieces that become part of my clients’ lives. I am very grateful for all of it.
Learn more about the collection at susanlisterlocke.com
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