This is a beautiful book with many lovely and well photographed vintage figurals. As such, this would make a great coffee table book--especially if purchased in hardback (if such an animal exists). The author, Kathy Flood, did her homework well and offered several resources for further research as well as tips and sources for the avid collector. For neophytes such as myself, her chapters concerning reproductions, design details (that help date and value a piece)and signature styles were of great interest. My decision to buy this book was due to my long time love of figural pins and to see if I had anything of "interest" in my small collection. Also, Warman's reputation for credibility along with a great price guaranteed very little monetary loss if disappointing. Unfortunately, like many of it's contemporaries, this collector's guide is not of the stuff for the common man. Little attention if any at all, is given to more commonly known and prolific (i.e. more affordable) designers such as JJ, AJC, Sarah Coventry, Gerry's, Monet, etc., whose pieces comprise the heart of most collections. On a more positive note, photographer Tom Holzhauer also deserves kudos for his fine work; the pictures are beautifully detailed and will have you trolling the "Bay" even if you have never owned a piece of figural jewelry in your life. All in all, I think I did well with this purchase because there is so much valuable information on trends past, present, and future found within this guide. I would not pay full price for this book but will recommend it if you are a collector and can get it at a good price.Read full review
If you love collecting vintage jewelry or are curious and would like to learn this book is a must have!!! This book as with most of the Warman's collector series books is filled with color photographs of a wide variety of American costume jewelry figural pieces and identifies the manufacturers as well. It concentrates on a specific type of collectible costume jewelry; the figural(In the shape of a person, place, thing,ect.). It does include unsigned pieces and gives book value. Unlike many books on the market, this book is closer to reality (ie. 50% above market) than most with their book prices. For the beginner collector it will be useful in determining if you have something special as well as giving you an idea of design and quality as it pertains to each maker. This book is easily obtained through Amazon and if you do not mind a pre-owned copy it is quite reasonable!Read full review
This book is filled with 250 pages of clear, detailed, color photos showing examples of figural jewelry in many different categories. The book is well organized and highly readable. I have used it to increase my knowledge of figural jewelry and I continue to use it as a reference. I would recommend this book to anyone who collects, buys or sells figural jewelry. Prices are listed with the photos. I do not take these prices literally, as I have found that actual selling prices fluctuate quite a bit with economic factors as well as fashion trends.
Fine informative book and excellent detailed photographs in a wide selection of designs. Kathy Flood has done the necessary research to guide a collector when considering the purchase of fine vintage. Warman's has a history of selecting exceptional experts in their specific fields and offering informative as well as interesting recollections from the past. I have already gone through this book 4 or 5 times and have been able to solve some perplexing questions thanks to the author. I give the author Kathy Flood very high marks for her extensive research and can recommend this book without hesitation. Sincerely Susan Singh
Reading and perusing this book, takes you on a trip to a wondrous universe of art and creativity....vintage brooches from a bygone era. A must have for anyone who collects or simply loves jewelry! Warning: this book will be tough to finish because you become enthralled with each page of delicious photos.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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