Tiaras Past & Present

Any woman who has ever wanted to be queen for a day understands the appeal of that most magnificently impractical of accessories, the tiara. Once an aristocratic status symbol, more recently worn by brides as a symbol of love, the tiara today is enjoying a tongue-in-cheek style revival. In this gem of a book, Geoffrey Munn, jeweler by appointment to the British monarchy, presents both classic and contemporary interpretations of diadems and headdresses spanning two centuries. The featured designers include Fabergé, Cartier, Boucheron, Van Cleef, and Versace. From priceless pieces commissioned by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria to a punk-rock acrylic creation by Vivienne Westwood, the photos and accompanying histories are sure to thrill royal watchers and fashionistas alike.

Rings are perhaps the most common and yet the most evocative pieces of jewelry. Worn as a sign of love or as a fashion accessory, to mark weddings, remember the dead, or show religious faith, the unbroken circleand#8212;a plain band or one that is elegantly adornedand#8212;holds a multitude of meanings for every wearer. From simple medieval hoops worn to ward off disease, to the glamorous rocks worn on the red carpet by Hollywood stars, to stunning works of art created by contemporary artist-jewelers, this book draws from the collections of the VandA to offer a beautifully illustrated introduction to rings.

Geoffrey Munn is managing director of Wartski, Jewelers by Appointment to the British Royal Family. He is also a well-known British media personality who frequently appears on television and radio, in particular as the jewelry expert on the British version of Antiques Roadshow.