The eclectic choice of jewels and objets makes this a book unlike any other, with myriad entry points to larger discussions on broader themes and trends that the pieces figure into. This publication features beautiful full-colour photographs of jewellery from various historical eras up to the present day, with a wide range of materials and styles. Each piece offers a different entry point for discussing the history of jewellery and various design elements, techniques, materials and societal implications.

Each chapter is centred around a particular piece of jewellery and the way in which it is emblematic: a previous owner, an exemplary design ordominant material. From an array of historic pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels, to a discussion of Indian royalty and its relationship with jewellery, to pages filled with exquisite pearl jewellery, this book satisfies both the casual fan and the devotee with full-colour photographs and informative themed chapters.