When it comes to books for jewellery and inspiration we still prefer leafing through a physical book rather than a digital one. Here are a few of our favourites, old and new, and some ideas for your christmas list…
1. For pure inspiration:
The fabulous jewels sold by Christies and the stories behind them:
Christies: the jewellery archives revealed by Vincent Meyland published by ACC Art books
A lavish look at precious metals and gemstones alongside beautiful photos of how they have been used to make jewellery:
Jewel: a celebration of earth’s treasures, foreword by Judith Miller. Published by Dorling Kindersley
We love the ‘500’ series which also includes books on earrings, art necklaces, bracelets. We’d love a set of them all! Full of inspiring photos of pieces made by artists using traditional and nontraditional materials:
500 earrings: new directions in contemporary jewelry. Published by Lark books
2. For how to guides
Written by our founder Jessica Rose, this book of bead and wire projects also looks at how to get inspired using mood boards and collages:
Bead and wire fashion jewelry by Jessica Rose. Published by GMC
A classic must have book for all silversmiths:
The complete metalsmith by Tim McCreight. Published by Davis Publications.
From using bought mounts to making your own, this book covers a large range of stone setting techniques:
Stonesetting for contemporary jewellery makers by Melissa Hunt. Published by Search Press Ltd
A practical guide to what to do when things go wrong!
Successful jewellery maker: problems, solutions and best practice by Frieda Munro
30 metal clay projects collated by Making Jewellery magazine editor Sian Hamilton:
Metal clay jewellery workshop: handcrafted designs and techniques by Sian Hamilton. Published by GMC
3. For jewellery business
This book, written by a successful jewellery business owner based in London, discusses all aspects of setting up your business:
Setting up a successful jewellery business by Angie Boothroyd. Published by A & C Black Publishers Ltd.
Looking at the business side of being a jewellery artist:
How to create your own jewelry line by Emilie Shapiro. Published by Lark Books.
What jewellery book have you got on your Christmas list? Let us know in the comments below.
Author: Anna Campbell
