Art & Design S.: Gems

More about the book

This informative and visually stunning volume examines jewels and gemstones throughout history. It presents outstanding works of art from Europe, Egypt, the Middle East, India, China and the Americas through full-colour illustrations and expert commentaries outlining the cultural background and individual qualities of the pieces. The works of art have been selected both for their exquisite craftsmanship and for their symbolic importance in history. Amongst the many masterpieces included here are the cameos of the Emperor Augustus, the crown of the Holy Roman Emperor, the lost Amber Room from St Petersburg, Fabergé's eggs for the Tsar, the Koh-i-Noor and the Star of India diamonds, and the crystal skulls of the Toltecs. This lavishly illustrated book is a fascinating exploration of the world's greatest treasures.