Collector's Guide to Costume Jewelry: From Strass to Van Der Straeten

I am a lover of costume jewelry and have dozens of books on jewelry. This is the most visual and detailed book I have found to understand the periods, materials and designs of costume jewelry. It is simple to read and very well organized and illustrated. A most for the jewelry collector or jewelry lover. I have purchased a few to give to friends.

Lovely book that describes the history of costume jewelry, from the late 18th century to the present, with beautiful photos throughout. I began collecting vintage findings and glass to use in my own jewelry designs, and have been fascinated by the variety and inventiveness of what is available. It was wonderful to get a context for some of these items from this book, and I liked learning about the history, terminology, and major influences on the trade. So far, it seems to be hard to find information on costume jewelry, other than valuation for dealers and collectors. The pieces chosen to illustrate this volume were great, inspiring designs.

I love this book and have found it a great resource for my costume jewellery business.It helps to train your eye to recognise the different eras and designers and provides interesting historical detail that I now pass on to my customers. Price guides are notoriously hit and miss (the prices are either way too cheap or totally unrealistic) but this book actually teaches you things that anyone can apply to buying, selling or collecting costume jewellery. Pretty pictures too! Read and enjoy!

This is a really fun book to read if you're into costume jewelry. Has some good practical advice too.

This is one of the few books I have seen that includes both stunning color photos and informative text about early "paste" jewelry -- the "costume" jewelry of the pre-1910 Edwardian and Victorian eras, made to look like real gems. There is also a wonderful section on art nouveau, again in great color. About half the book focuses on more modern costume jewelry, but anyone who loves older pieces shouldn't overlook it!