The Ring Design: Past and Present

Now on sale! Was $75, now only $25!

The Ring is possibly the single item of human adornment which holds universal symbolic value on many different levels. Rings mark an emotional or spiritual bond, or a symbol of worldly status and power, while the design of this ostensibly simple ornamental object has always reflected and subtly revealed its special meanings.

This definitive study places the ring within its historical and social context, follwing the development of ring design, manufacturing, and the materials used from its earliest appearance in the 5th Century BC to the experimental, abstract forms of the present day. In addition to offering a comprehensive historical study of ring design from a wide cross-section of civilizations and cultures, The Ring also provides a richly-illustrated survey of the work of contemporary craftsmen-jewelers—including sketches and preliminary designs which reveal the creative process leading to the finished piece.

Exquisitely written by Sylvie Lambert, the first half of this book is historical with a brief discussion concerning rings from 5th century BC, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and 13th-20th century. The later chapters discuss the modern ring and its many adaptations from outrageous to wild and sculptural, and from one-of-a-kind to production. A great source book for every library!

11 2/10 x 9 1/2 inches
272 pages
Hardcover
2000