Full of helpful ideas and tips as well as stunning photographs, A Passion for Jewelry is the complete illustrated guide on how to appreciate, collect, and care for all types of beautiful jewelry. Beginning with detailed exploration and history of different materials, including classics such as gold, silver, and amber and more unusual ones such as glass and cloth, the book covers everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry. The text explains how to recognize different stones and estimate their worth, where to purchase the most extraordinary jewelry, and the simple steps involved in starting your own collection. Also included is practical advice on how to clean, preserve, and store your jewelry and even a chapter on how to display your jewelry around your home. Completing this dazzling book are Yves Duronsoy’s atmospheric photographs that perfectly capture the essence of each piece of necklace, bracelet, and ring featured.

Preface

Introducion

Precious Metals

The Splendor of Gold

The Purity of Silver

Gemstones

The Sparkle of Stones

The Heart of Stones

Precious Materials

Treasures from the Sea

Pearls, Daughters of the Sea

Coral, the Tree of the Ocean

Mother-of-Pearl and Shells

Art and Materials

Collectors' Materials

Jewelry from Around the World

Glossary

Acknowledgements