European Designer Jewelry/a Schiffer Book for Collectors

Flat color printing unfortunately diminishes this otherwise impressive compendium of text and photos (over 700) documenting the trends and sources of jewelry design in 13 countries of Europe and Scandinavia during the last 100 years. Arranged by country, coverage includes discussion of national characteristics and interaction among designers and artisans over time and across borders; biographical sketches for artists, artisans, and courturiers; and documentation and description of hallmarks and makers' marks, as well as jewelers' techniques and materials. The focus is on semi-precious gems, glass beads, rhinestones, and plastics set in silver, silver-gilt or brass (occasionally gold). Includes a value guide. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.