Customer Reviews

Unsigned Beauties of Costume Jewlery: Identification & Values

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a decent book for prices and examples but didn't give much description on identifying. For instance it explains the different metals used to make the jewelry, but not how to identify which metal you have in your piece. Good for pics but not too good for identifying/dating pieces.

Most of "Unsigned Beauties of Costume Jewelry: Identification & Values," by Marcia "Sparkles" Brown, consists of labeled, full-color photographs of pieces of jewelry: brooches, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, etc. The book also contains an introduction and sections discussing such topics as rhinestone history and tips for starting a collection. A glossary, bibliography, and index further add to the book's usefulness.

But it's the stunningly beautiful photographs that really give this book its punch. Brown has assembled an eye-popping collection of pieces that employ many different motifs: butterflies, floral designs, fish, birds, mythological/fantasy figures, whimsical characters, fruit, patriotic motifs, abstract geometric forms, pieces reminiscent of military medals or heraldic insignia, etc. Pictured are rhinestones of a rich variety of shapes and colors. Every page brings new and marvelous treasures.

In her author's notes at the start of the book, Brown notes that she considers rhinestone jewelry to be "the true 'American art form.'" Her passion for the subject really shines through in this visually pleasing compendium.

This is a great book with beautiful pictures and helpful information! Well worth my money.

I think the book is worthy of it's name. It recognizes the beauty of unsigned pieces and their value. Each page includes colored photos of unsigned costume vintage pins, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The pictures are bright, clear, and vibrant. The only set back to this book is that the author has listed the value of the pieces a little to high. This is relative across the board though, so I wouldn't skip on purchasing this book. If you by vintage because you admire it's beauty and not it's maker, than this book is for you. Enjoy!

SAVE YOUR MONEY! The book title is deceiving if you are looking to "IDENTIFY" an unsigned Miriam Haskell, a Weiss bracelet, or a Trifari parure. Marcia "Sparkles" Brown provides pages upon pages of "sparkling" costume jewelry. However, there is no piece of jewelry in the book which is "identified" by designer or manufacturer. She describes;" SHE DOES NOT IDENTIFY - those are two very different things. Of course, if you do not know the difference between earrings, necklaces, bracelets and pins - or you just like pretty pictures, the book is a bargain. The book is also helpful if you want to learn the lingo, i.e. "cabachon, "parure." Her descriptions are excellently and accurately phrased. She also provides suggested prices per item or set. BUY ONLY if you want a suggested value or help in describing your own pieces. AGAIN, NO INDIVIDUAL ITEM IN THE BOOK IS IDENTIFIED BY DESIGNER OR MANUFACTURER.

A Sensational book on the topic of "unsigned" that is way over do. With hundreds of pieces featured and color pictures. I love the way the author formatted the book by categories ... makes looking up pieces easier. A very welcomed addition to my personal library books on Costume Jewelry!