A World of Necklaces: Africa, Asia, Oceania, America from the Ghysels Collection

Milan: Skira, 2003. Hardcover. Very Good/Very Good. A World of Necklaces-the fourth book in a series that also features rings, bracelets and earrings-demonstrates the importance and variety of the remarkable Ghysels collection of ethnic jewelry.

The forms, colors and materials of these necklaces are astonishing, while the modernity of some pieces in the collection has not escaped the notice of contemporary jewelry designers.
It is rare for jewelry to have a solely aesthetic purpose, for above all it is anchored in the social, religious and political contexts that lend it meaning. Throughout this book, the author sets out to untangle the intricacies of the way necklaces are used and what they signify. She describes the materials and draws attention to the originality of the craftsmen, who have contributed to the enrichment of a cultural heritage that has long been under threat and which this collection is helping to preserve. The book includes over 300 superb photographs, a glossary, an index, maps and a general bibliography.