Diamond Jewelry

700 Years of Glory and Glamour

Diana Scarisbrick

$100

Hardback

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English

Thames & Hudson
19 September 2019

Precious metal & precious stones: artworks & design; Industrial: Commercial Art & Design; Social & cultural history; Antiques & collectables: jewellery

Diamond jewelry has long been symbolic of political power and authority in Europe. This book focuses on the individuals who commissioned and wore extraordinarily precious diamond ornaments from the mid-14th century until the 'democratization' of diamonds that followed the opening of mines in South Africa in 1867.

This enthralling story covers seven centuries of history, showing the way in which rulers such as Charles V of France, Queen Elizabeth I of Great Britain, Louis XIV of France and Catherine II of Russia used diamond jewelry to reinforce their power and authority. As works of art, these precious creations mirror the successive styles of each period - late Gothic naturalism, the culture of the Renaissance, Baroque splendour, Rococo elegance and the Imperial grandeur of the First and Second Napoleonic Empires. The recurring themes - religion, sentiment, heraldry, military glory, miniatures and cameo portraiture - are reinterpreted by each generation of jewelers. Like royal dress, diamond jewelry was worn to dazzle and impress - at weddings, coronations, christenings and state visits - and was presented as gifts reflecting princely generosity. Over the centuries, these displays proved remarkably successful as instruments of government, symbolizing the pride and glory of a nation.

Arranged chronologically, Diamond Jewelry includes some legendary masterpieces of diamond jewelry. Written by an acknowledged expert, it offers an intriguing overview of one of the world's most precious gems.

By: Diana Scarisbrick
Imprint: Thames & Hudson
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 305mm, Width: 225mm,
Weight: 1.760kg
ISBN: 9780500021507
ISBN 10: 0500021503
Pages: 256
Publication Date: 19 September 2019
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active

Diana Scarisbrick is an art historian specializing in the history of engraved gems and jewelry. Her publications include Rings: Jewelry of Power, Love and Loyalty and Portrait Jewels: Opulence and Intimacy from the Medici to the Romanovs.

Reviews for Diamond Jewelry: 700 Years of Glory and Glamour

'Like cloves in a pomander, nuggets of splendid excess stud this handsome overview ... a densely illustrated survey, written with authority - as well as a peppering of wit to add an appropriate degree of sparkle' - Country Life '[A] richly illustrated social history of diamond jewelry' - JCK Online