Chapter 1: The Dawn of Adornment
* Summary: Explores the earliest forms of jewelry, dating back to the Neolithic period (c. 10,000-4,000 BC).
* Real Example: Shell beads from the Skara Brae Neolithic village in Scotland, used for decoration and ritual purposes.
Chapter 2: The Age of Metals
* Summary: Discusses the introduction of metals in jewelry-making, from gold and silver to copper and bronze.
* Real Example: Gold earrings from the royal tombs of Ur (c. 2600-2400 BC), showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Sumerian goldsmiths.
Chapter 3: The Egyptians: Masters of Gold
* Summary: Highlights the pivotal role of jewelry in ancient Egyptian society, particularly the use of gold as a symbol of power and prestige.
* Real Example: The death mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun (c. 1323-1319 BC), adorned with intricate gold ornaments and precious stones.
Chapter 4: The Greeks and Romans: Jewels of Empire
* Summary: Examines the influence of classical Greece and Rome on jewelry design, characterized by stylized motifs and a focus on gemstones.
* Real Example: A Roman cameo ring depicting Emperor Augustus (c. 27 BC-14 AD), showcasing the fine detail and artistry of Roman gem-carvers.
Chapter 5: The Middle Ages: Spiritual Adornment
* Summary: Explores the role of jewelry in medieval times, both as a form of personal ornamentation and as a symbol of religious devotion.
* Real Example: The Stavelot Triptych (c. 1150 AD), decorated with gold and enamel, depicting scenes from the life of Christ.
Chapter 6: The Renaissance: Rebirth of Beauty
* Summary: Discusses the resurgence of classical influences in Renaissance jewelry, characterized by intricate designs and a focus on naturalism.
* Real Example: The Cellini Salt Cellar (c. 1540-1543), crafted by the renowned Italian goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini, showcasing the mastery of Renaissance craftsmanship.
Chapter 7: The Baroque Era: Opulence and Excess
* Summary: Examines the lavish and theatrical style of Baroque jewelry, characterized by oversized gemstones, enamelwork, and ornate designs.
* Real Example: The Cullinan Diamond brooch (c. 1907), featuring the world's largest diamond, set in platinum and gold, embodying the extravagance of Baroque aesthetics.
Chapter 8: The 18th Century: Elegance and Refinement
* Summary: Highlights the transition to a more delicate and refined style in the 18th century, characterized by pastel colors, naturalistic motifs, and intricate lacework.
* Real Example: A Fabergé egg (c. 1900), created by the renowned Russian jeweler Carl Fabergé, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail of the period.
Chapter 9: The Victorian Era: Industrialization and Symbolism
* Summary: Explores the influence of the Industrial Revolution on jewelry production and the rise of Victorian sentimentality, reflected in intricate designs and symbolic motifs.
* Real Example: A mourning locket (c. 1860), containing a lock of hair from a deceased loved one, exemplifying the Victorian fascination with death and remembrance.
Chapter 10: The 20th Century: Modernism and Beyond
* Summary: Discusses the transformative impact of Modernism on jewelry design, characterized by abstract forms, industrial materials, and a rejection of ornamentation.
* Real Example: A neckpiece by Alexander Calder (c. 1942), consisting of geometric shapes and suspended elements, representing the modernist emphasis on movement and abstraction.
