I found this book very well thought out, easy to use and especially interesting! Jacqueline showcases pieces of her collection in relationship to the time period it is from. This book has a striking presentation of amazing color photos along with specific information about each piece. Besides a lavish description is a dollar amount approximating the value of each piece. I’ve already used it in the field on my last excursion thrift shopping on Cape Cod MA. It is a useful tool and a lovely collection to refer to.

I adore her use of vintage advertisements commingled with outstanding photos and patent examples. There is an extensive section on brooches broken into subsections by color, flowers, birds, the sea, dangling, diamante, butterflies, retro modern, fruit, armor, faces, animals, people, pearls, and bugs and critters. When collecting, I am so drawn to brooches and the memories of both my Grandmothers and Great-grandmother who wore them especially on the holidays.

The “About the Author” section of the book allows you to meet Jacqueline Rehmann, her husband and a very special young collector. Here you will find a bit about how this author / collector got started on her jewelry journey. I can relate to her story with one of my own about a church yard sale and the 25 cent purchases of days gone by! Another common theme is the continuity of special treasures being handed down through the generations. I do love the few pieces I have from my great-grandmother and both grandmothers and the notion of being able to keep this link to the past by connecting it to the future is indeed, special.



Other topics in this book include Demi Parures and Parures. One of my absolute favorites can be found on pg 118. This is a huge swirling snowflake design brooch and matching earrings all done in clear rhinestones and a gold setting. Simply stunning!! Additional sections are dedicated to Necklaces, Bracelets and Earrings respectively. Personal favorites include pg 141 a Schiaparelli necklace, pg 148 DeLizza and Elster (Juliana) bracelet with turquoise and gold flecked stones and pale blue rhinestones and outstanding HAR earrings featuring a lovely green stone set in japanned setting encircled with faceted clear rhinestones.

“Children as Collectors” section has a wonderful compilation of pieces from Jacqueline’s daughter’s collection. Interesting items such as: ballerinas, kittens, turtles, walrus, dogs and owl brooches. She is off to an early start!

Finishing off the book is an indispensable section devoted to “Costume Jewelry Designers and Manufactures”. Here, Jacqueline gives credit to various sources she has referenced to put this section of her book together. Listed are: Manufacturer/ Designer, dates of operation, signature / marks, and description / characteristics of many of the industries finest. The alphabetical listing makes it very easy to search for vital information.

Adding this book to your collection is highly recommended and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Don't forget to sign up for Bella Gems newsletter~ don't miss a single issue!



MyGemStoneBox Vintage!