The history of jewelry: Joseph Saidian and Sons

Abstract

Every piece of jewellery tells a story, and none more so than the exquisite pieces in this book, which have passed through several notable owners before arriving at Joseph Saidian and Sons, an antique jeweller's shop nestled in the Manhattan Art and Antiques Centre. Each chapter is centred around a particular piece of jewellery and the way in which it is emblematic: a previous owner, an exemplary design or dominant material. From an array of historic pieces from Van Cleef and Arpels to a discussion of Indian royalty and its relationship with jewellery to pages filled with exquisite pearl jewellery, this book satisfies both the casual fan and the devotee with full-colour photographs and informative themed chapters. The eclectic choice of jewels and objects makes this a book unlike any other, with myriad entry points to larger discussions on broader themes and trends that the pieces figure into. This publication features beautiful full-colour photographs of jewellery from various historical eras up to the present day, with a wide range of materials and styles. Each piece offers a different entry point for discussing the history of jewellery and various design elements, techniques, materials, and societal implications.

Contents

Introduction: The Saidian legacy -- 1. La Rusa tiara -- 2. Van Cleef & Arpels -- 3. Bold colors -- 4. Objets d'art -- 5. Indian jewelry -- 6. Pearls -- 7. Enamel -- 8. French jewelry -- Cartier -- 10. Modern jewelry.