Beyond Adornment: Jewelry and Identity in Art, by Yvonne J Markowitz and Susanne Gänsicke, is a fascinating look at the ways in which jewelry contributes to displaying and sometimes supporting identity.

While the title implies this is an art book it is much more than that. It is a bit of a history book, with historical figures and their use of jewelry examined. The primary way we have to visually examine the past, especially the distant past, is through artwork, so this combines a social/cultural history with art.

The book is well researched and written very well, both writers explain and show examples to make everything clear. The illustrations are wonderful and if you like to turn books into multimedia experiences you can find even more images online from the wealth of information in the book.

Highly recommended for both art lovers as well as those with an interest in social history. And of course those who simply love jewelry will enjoy it as well.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.

Beyond Adornment: Jewelry and Identity in Art by Yvonne J. Markowitz and Susanne Gänsicke

I love a coffee table books, jewellery and art, and no one does coffee table art books like Getty Publications. This is the second art book by Getty that I've reviewed and they've both made me wish they'd pop a hardcopy in the post for me.

Beyond Adornment explores the concept of why we wear jewellery, using art to showcase the impact jewelry has had over time. From Queen Nefertiti to Ruth Bader Ginsburgs powerfully iconic neck pieces, and how they reflect not just style but also the values and legacies of the people wearing them.

It's beautifully illustrated and honestly makes you appreciate jewelry in a more profound and more personal context. Think of the iconic neckpeices Ruth Bader Ginsburg wore and collected, or the Mexican jade jewellery that Frida Kahlo strung together and painted herself wearing.

This book will be available in hardcover on May 6th 2025. Thanks to NetGalley and Getty Publications for providing me with a copy for review.

👍 Thumbs up.

Go read a book!

Body count: 0.

Beyond Adornment is a masterfully written exploration of jewellery as more than just decoration — it captures the soul behind the craft. As a jeweller, I found it deeply inspiring; it challenges convention while celebrating the emotional and cultural weight our work can carry. Thought-provoking, beautifully presented, and full of heart — a must-read for anyone in the trade or with a love for meaningful design.

on storygraph - https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/a8bb2900-9a83-49b8-9d69-1325ffe9d6b4
on goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7479873611

Fascinating informative look at jewelry full of beautiful illustrations.Perfect look at the history of jewelry the way jewelry is used as adornments throughout history. An encyclopedia to dip in and out of ..#netgalley #getty