Delve into the dazzling history of costume jewelry through the extraordinary collection of Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo. In the early 20th century, New York became the epicenter of costume jewelry design, as artisans fleeing a war-torn Europe rebuilt their craft in the United States. Their expertise placed the city at the forefront of fashion and marked the beginning of an era of bold, beautiful, and accessible costume jewelry.
This magnificent book, with texts by Carol Woolton and Maria Luisa Frisa (who offers a personal reflection on Patrizia and her collection), showcases nearly 600 of the finest pieces from the 1930s to the new millennium.
With stunning photographs by Luciano Romano, it traces the history of jewelry democratization, as women embraced striking accessories and celebrated a new freedom in dressing. Beyond their beauty, these jewels embodied rebellion and transformation: they adorned Hollywood’s most iconic figures and became symbols of identity and creativity.
We will explore visionary designers and the cultural movements of each era, reflecting the artistic, economic, and social changes that shaped them. We will discover how innovative materials like lucite and bakelite, along with the introduction of vibrant tropical colors, inspired new design trends. We will learn about the extraordinary craftsmanship of designers who incorporated intricate details and bold motifs into their creations, often avant-garde, blurring the line between fine jewelry and costume jewelry, and transforming accessories into wearable art. A source of inspiration for collectors, designers, and jewelry lovers.
