Understanding Jewellery

By David Bennett & Daniela Mascetti
Antique Collector’s Club
1989/2003 ISBN 1-85149-430-8

Antique Collector’s Club writes:

Now revised and fully updated, this classic book brings together the identification and dating of all types of jewellery, from the late 18th century until the end of the millennium.

The first section of the book provides a detailed study of gemstones, where they come from and the testing methods which are used to identify precious and semi-precious stones, assess quality and detect fakes. Understanding Jewellery is unique in explaining why values vary, setting out the information in a straightforward and uncomplicated manner, linking the text to specific illustrations.

The authors, Sotheby’s experts, evaluate many millions of pounds worth of jewellery annually and thus handle a complete cross-section of what is available on the market. They have specially selected the 919 superb color plates to show what to look for when purchasing antique jewellery and, equally importantly, what to avoid. Great care has been taken to illustrate each piece of jewellery at its actual size.

This book is already firmly established as a reference work for dealers and collectors of jewellery, and for those interested in the history and development of fashion and style. This new revised and expanded edition adds even further depth to the understanding of the subject.

About the authors
Daniela Mascetti is the author of two books on 18th and 19 century jewellery, and is co-author with Amanda Triossi of Earrings from Antiquity to the Present; Necklaces from Antiquity to the Present and Bulgari.

David Bennet has been involved in all Sotheby’s jewellery collections and sales held during the past 30 years. He gives counseling in hermetic astrology and designs unique jewels, each tailored exactly to the owner’s psyche and personal path.