Ruby: The King of Gems

Description

This is the most ambitious book ever published on the ruby, the king of gems. From Emperors and Empresses, Kings and Queens, Maharanis to Hollywood royalty, a stunning array of style icons are shown wearing their favourite ruby jewelry, alongside classic images of rubies from art, advertising and fashion. The book also showcases sixty of the world's most significant and renowned pieces of ruby jewelry, including many previously unseen designs from royal and private collections. Historic creations are represented alongside pieces from major modern jewelry houses, among them Cartier, Boucheron, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chaumet, Harry Winston and Graff. Additionally, Ruby offers practical guidance on what to look for in a quality ruby.

Joanna Hardy is an independent gemologist and jewelry specialist, formerly of Debeers and Sothebys. She lectures widely and writes for many international journals, and also features on the popular BBC programme Antiques Roadshow.

'Filled with spectacular hand-drawn illustrations from prestigious jewelry houses ... essential reading for anyone interested in exploring the world of high jewelry' - .Cent 'About as sumptuous as a book can get ... a feast for the eyes' - Country & Town House 'Wonderful' - Cheshire Magazine 'The extensive research in this outsize format along with the number and quality of photographs make these books collector's items in their own right and one that no gem library will be without. No doubt Hardy's trio of volumes will be on every gem-hound's wish list - along with shelves strong enough to support these weighty tomes. A fail-proof gift for jewellery and gem fans just in time for Christmas' - The Jewellery Editor, of 'Ruby', 'Emerald' and 'Sapphire'