Paperback, colour and b&w illustrations. Many people have at least one piece of old jewellery, often handed on within the family. Such brooches, earrings, bracelets and so on may be good of their type, but because they are unfashionable or damaged in some way they are neglected and remain at the bottom of the jewellery box. Thi book aims to encourage readers to take them understand the fine craftsmanship many of these pieces represent. All types of jewellery are described and illustrated, from rings to cufflinks and tiepins, and their characteristics are explained. The traditional methods, decorative techniques and tools used by the jewellers and goldsmiths are detailed through easily understood drawings. Gold, silver and platinum are discussed, as well as the properties of the principal gemstones and the ways in wich they are cut and set. A chapter on hallmarks gives a guide to marks as they are used on gold and silver jewellery.
