Collector's Encyclopedia of Hairwork Jewelry

Book excerpt: The early Victorians regarded hair as one's crowning glory and the most delicate and lasting part of a person. This sentimental, romantic temperament gave rise to the fashion for making and wearing jewelry made of hair. Whether you consider the idea of jewelry and memorials made from human hair repulsive or utterly fascinating, this book should answer any questions about this delicate art form. Jeanenne Bell, a certified appraiser and jewelry dealer, has written an exhaustive text devoted to hairwork jewelry. More than 500 gorgeous color photos together with vintage illustrations and images from our past fill this tender, informative guide. Insight is given on how this came into fashion, the basic techniques used, as well as information about what pieces are most collectible and valuable. A list of criteria for evaluating these unique pieces will aid the reader in identifying and pricing the items still being found at shops and estate sales today. 8.5 X 11. Current values.