Object of Desire: Filomena Demarco Jewelry

Photograph by Toan Trinh

The roots of Ashley Vick’s Somerville-based jewelry line run deep—all the way down to her great-grandmother Filomena Demarco, the fearless businesswoman for whom the collection is named. “I wanted my brand to embody her courageous spirit,” Vick explains. But the ancestral inspiration hasn’t stopped the MassArt alum from embracing her own distinctive style in her handcrafted, Southwest-inspired pieces, many of which feature giant natural gemstones set in sterling silver or gold. “First and foremost I make jewelry for myself and what I like,” Vick says. “I feel like you can’t sell it if you don’t want to wear it yourself.” No doubt Nana would be proud.

Carnelian ring, $350, sterling silver bangle set, $425, turquoise-and-coral cuff, $750, and sterling silver cuff, $380, all Filomena Demarco.