Here goes with the first of what I hope might become regular reviews of craft and vintage books I come across.
The book in question is Carole Tanenbaum's 'Vintage Costume Jewellery' - and it's a ripper. (The edition I saw is the British one, doubtless the American version spells it 'Jewelry'.)
The photos are gorgeous and the text informative without being overwhelming in its depth. There is an overview of each of the major eras of costume jewellery from Victorian onwards through Art Nouveau and Deco, the 50s, 60s and right up to the end of the 20th century... covering some of the societal influences and 'big names'.
Published in 2006, it's a recent book which I happened to come across in my suburban local library of all places!
I picked it up because when I sell vintage jewellery I want to be able to date the pieces accurately, which can be difficult.
Also, because when I buy large lots of vintage costume jewellery or go thrift shopping, I want to be able to find the 'needle in a haystack'... the single piece I can sell via Sotheby's and retire on forever ;-)
And finally, because of the inspiration I find in old jewellery when creating my own pieces... which often contain vintage components salvaged from otherwise-broken costume jewellery.
My only criticism would be that there is no guidance given on what the pieces featured are worth in dollar, rather than 'beauty', terms.
The author, Tanenbaum, clearly knows her stuff as a collector - and has (gasp) a personal collection of more than 3500 pieces. Egads!