Can you tell the history of the world – its highs and lows, its breakthroughs and breakups, its triumphs and tragedies – in jewellery? From ancient treasures to royal weddings, great heists to the red carpet, this book by renowned jewellery expert and author Stellene Volandes is a stunning, surprising, and glittering tour of historic turning points and gem-driven drama, delving into the passions and predilections of some of the world’s most interesting and extraordinary people.

Starting in the era of Cleopatra and continuing through to recent jewellery statements by Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, and Meaghan Markle, Volandes tells the stories of how shiny stones and metals have determined empires, inspired expeditions and great crime, and have been the communicator of status and ruin since the dawn of time. Each moment is placed in historic and relevant context, with Volandes drawing engaging parallels between Napoleon’s gift to Marie Louise at the birth of their son and the modern push present or the insouciant story behind the broach Jackie Kennedy famously wore to a 1962 State Dinner with the Shah of Iran.

Illustrated with a mix of archival images and gorgeous photograph of the jewels, this book is a beautiful, informative, and essential read for history lovers, fashion, celebrity and pop culture followers, as well as passionate jewel hounds.