Precious: The History and Mystery of Gems Across Time

Discover the fascinating history of precious gems through stunning photography and engaging storytelling in "Precious: A History of Gems." From ancient civilizations to famous owners, this book explores the symbolism, geology, and cultural significance of these beautiful objects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

Discover a mesmerizing journey into the world's history, presented through a fresh and captivating lens by the V&A Senior Jewellery Curator. This captivating book features 16 pages of stunning color photography, showcasing some of the most breathtaking jewelry from across the globe.

A magnificent compendium of everything one could ever want to know about jewels: their symbolism, physical construction, worth, and history.

Spectator

Engaging and illuminating, Precious is a masterclass in the history of gems. It's also a delight to read, one of those books where the learning is effortless.

"This is - fittingly - a gem of a book. Rich descriptions, fascinating histories, and, at times, just pure, dazzling bling. A joy to read."

- Tracy Borman, author of Elizabeth's Women, Thomas Cromwell, and The Private Lives of the Tudors

Travelling through moments in history and layers of soil and sediment, this is world history as you have never seen it before.

This is the story of precious gems, from emeralds and rubies, to sapphires and pearls. Explore their history and geology, as well as their famous owners, from Elizabeth 1 to Elizabeth Taylor, Marie Antoinette to Marilyn Monroe, Coco Chanel to Beyonce.

Discover the fragile emerald watch that survived cross-continental journeys and centuries under the floorboards of a London house.

Journey back through the generations of women who wore pearls as a signifier of femininity and marvel at the role these glistening objects have played in changing depictions of feminism.

Learn of the Burmese warriors who believed so strongly in the connection between rubies and lifeblood that they embedded them into their skin before battle to protect them from harm.

In this sumptuous and sweeping history of human adornment, you will delve into the rich tapestry of jewelry, from ancient civilizations to modern times.

From the intricate designs of ancient Egypt to the dazzling gemstones of Renaissance Europe, each chapter offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of jewels.

Discover the stories behind the most famous pieces of jewelry, from the Hope Diamond to the Taj Mahal, and learn about the craftsmanship and techniques that went into creating them.

Precious also explores the social and cultural significance of jewelry throughout history, from its use as a status symbol to its role in religious and cultural rituals.

With its stunning photography, engaging writing, and comprehensive coverage, Precious is a must-read for anyone who loves jewelry, history, or just wants to be captivated by the beauty and mystique of these precious objects.

So, grab your copy of Precious and embark on a journey through time, discovering the fascinating stories behind the world's most precious jewels.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 240 x 165 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857529091