Author Description

This carefully researched book traces the stories behind jewels designed and owned by these artists, often right back to the original drawings. Many entirely new discoveries are featured, including Rossetti's watch, a necklace designed by Sir Edward Poynter and worn by his model for 'Helen of Troy', and a cross by Sir Edward Burne-Jones commissioned by John Ruskin in memory of Rose La Touche. The book deals with intensely personal souvenirs of romantic and even blighted love. Amongst the illustrations are works of art from royal, aristocratic and artistic circles, and some of the finest collections in Europe. Artists featured include Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Sir Edwin Lutyens, William Holman-Hunt, William Morris, Charles Ricketts, William Burges, Henry Wilson and John Paul Cooper. The pieces were made by eminent jewellers such as Carlo Giuliano, Hancock's, Child & Child, and Barkentin & Krall, and some were presents for prominent society ladies such as Margot Asquith and Ellen Terry. Jewellery from this period is avidly sought for its famous romantic associations. As the artists had little respect for the intrinsic value of the materials used, undiscovered jewels may previously have been overlooked but today could be of great value and importance. As many as 30 designs appear for which no jewel has yet been traced.