The Largest Collection of Remarkable Necklaces,from Stunrdng Chokers to Spectacular Collars.

Chosen from more than 5,000 entries, the neck adornments in this breathtaking survey range in scale,materials, style, and conception.The contributors come from many parts of the world, and they bring their unique experiences, techniques, and trends to the work.

Among the most popular forms of jewelry, necklaces have been made over the years as demonstrations of power, love, status, religion, and wealth, to name just a few. They offer a creative canvas that allows significant room for experimentation and exploration of ideas.

This magnificent collection of the finest in contemporary, handmade neck ornaments was selected from more than 5,000 entries and confirms our continuing and powerful fascination with this form of adornment. Juried by Marjorie Schick, a distinguished presence in the field, this beautiful and provocative color gallery includes work from a global group of outstanding artists.

The range of the pieces is astonishing. The materials used include precious metals and gems as well as more unusual supplies, like brown paper grocery bags, feathers, carved corn cobs, and plastic swing tabs. The fabrication techniques are varied,from forging to weaving, while the surface embellishments run the gamut from granulation and inlay to enameling and patinas. The styles range from the classical to the avant-garde. Many of the color photographs are accompanied by quotes from the artists that further illuminate their work.

Veleta Vancza's delicate Neck Brace references Victorian collars and is a response to society's ideals of femininity. The units of Swing,by Eun Mi Kim, turn on ball bearings when the wearer moves.Venetia Moushey Dale wanted to call attention to the power,importance, and beauty of food with Untitled, a copper and beans composition.Cousin Claira depicts a character from a paper doll set.To create value in this dollar-store cutout, Tiana Roebuck played with repetition and scale.

Whether you're a jeweler, collector, student, or simply someone who loves artful objects, you'll be enticed by the amazing diversity displayed in this collection.

Celebration of the Neck by Marjorie K. Schick, Juror

The Necklaces

Contributing Artists

Acknowledgments