Betty Cooke

Betty Cooke originally intended to be a sculptor and came upon jewelry almost accidentally. She apprenticed with a jeweler while in college because she wanted to be able to make a living during and after World War II. After receiving her degree, she taught classes in metalsmithing, jewelry-making, and welding at the Maryland Institute. In the 1950s, her jewelry was featured in the Good Design shows at the Museum of Modern Art and at other museums and galleries around the country. Since then, she has gained international fame for her jewelry.

Education: B.F.A., Maryland Institute College of Art, 1946