Please note: In order to keep Hive up to date and provide users with the best features, we are no longer able to fully support Internet Explorer. The site is still available to you, however some sections of the site may appear broken. We would encourage you to move to a more modern browser like Firefox, Edge or Chrome in order to experience the site fully.

Supporting your high street Find out how »
Diamond Jewelry : 700 Years of Glory and Glamour, Hardback Book

Diamond Jewelry : 700 Years of Glory and Glamour Hardback

Hardback

Less than 10 available - usually despatched within 24 hours

Description

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.

Information

Save 31%

£50.00

£34.45

Less than 10 available - usually despatched within 24 hours
Add to Basket
Sign in to add to wishlist
 
Free Home Delivery

on all orders

 
Pick up orders

from local bookshops

Information