A History of Jewellery 1100-1870

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The history of jewelry mirrors the evolution of mankind, serving as amulets for protection and symbols of wealth, power, and status. This scholarly study by a renowned English antiquarian provides a captivating overview of jewelry styles spanning 700 years, from the early Middle Ages and Gothic period through the Renaissance and into the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. Utilizing vital sources such as museums, private collections, and evidence from portrait painters, the author chronicles not only the jewels themselves but also their connections to costume, fashion, and shifting social values. The narrative is richly illustrated with 400 photographs and illustrations, showcasing remarkable pieces like a fifteenth-century gold heart-shaped brooch inscribed with "You are my earthly joy," a gold brooch adorned with sapphires, emeralds, and pearls, a diamond and topaz necklace from around 1760, and a thirteenth-century reliquary pendant of the Holy Thorn. This detailed study serves as an exceptional resource for those intrigued by the intricate history of handcrafted jewelry, appealing to fashion and costume historians, collectors, and antique enthusiasts alike.