The best jewelry related books to give this holiday season.
Taffin: The Jewelry of James de Givenchy, by James de Givenchy, published by Rizzoli, 2016
“Taffin” is a gorgeous tome illustrating and explaining James de Givenchy’s imaginative oeuvre at his signature New York atelier and boutique, Taffin. The massive slip-jacketed book features de Givenchy’s highly original and whimsically creative jewelry designs which incorporate unusual combinations of precious and semi-precious stones with ceramic, wood and other non-traditional materials in bold and often contrasting colors. The jewels are photographed alongside the objects that cleverly inspire him, from nature, the animal kingdom and beyond. This magnificent volume is truly a feast for the eyes, and the imagination!
It is available for sale at Rizzoli.
Gem, by Dorling Kindersley Publishing Staff, 2016
A jewelry book unlike any other with an encyclopedic breadth of information. Minerals and metals, significant gems throughout history from Maharaja’s Patiala necklace to Queen Elizabeth’s pelican brooch, the jewels of ancient Egypt, and iconic pieces from the design houses of Verdura and Cartier are all illustrated with lush images. Whether you’re interested in the science of gems, the history of precious metals, or fantastic stories about significant pieces and the famous people who wore them, “Gem” is a must have reference volume for all jewelry lovers.
It is available for sale at Amazon.
The Queen’s Diamonds, by Hugh Roberts, published by Royal Collection Trust, 2012
Published in 2012 to coincide with Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee, which marked the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne, The Queen’s Diamonds is a jaw dropping compilation of some of the most historic and exquisite jewels belonging to the British royal family. In most cases these spectacular jewels have been gloriously photographed in actual size, making this book a magnificent reference volume for the ages.
Netflix viewers will enjoy their latest dramatic series entitled “The Crown”, documenting Queen Elizabeth’s reign beginning with her marriage to Prince Phillip in 1947.
It is available for sale at Amazon.
The Beatles A Hard Day’s Night, A Private Archive, text by Mark Lewisohn, edited by Martha Karsh, 2016
For Beatles fans everywhere, this newly published and very artfully designed gem of a coffee table book is a marvelous compilation of materials originally in the collection of Walter Shenson, the famed producer of the ground-breaking and cheeky film, “A Hard Day’s Night”. The material, rarely if ever before seen, comprises candid Beatles photographs, fan letters, out-takes and other ephemera which charmingly capture the exuberant spirit of the Beatles in the early years of their storied careers.
It is available for sale at Phaidon.
