The phrase “imitation is the highest form of flattery” never rang so true as in the case of costume jewellery. Expressive, playful and, at times, downright fantastical, the craft utilises imitation gems to create pieces that democratise drip. But just because the stones used are less precious, doesn’t mean the pieces are any less awe-inspiring. Showcasing that is the intention of Taschen’s new tome Costume Jewelry, out November 3.

Spanning over 500 pages, the book traces the dazzling story of costume jewellery through the 600-piece-strong collection of contemporary art collector and lover of a statement necklace, Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo.

As war tore through Europe in the early 20th century, jewellery craftsmen fled to the US, taking their skilled hands and desire to create wondrous pieces with them. What emerged was a cultural movement driven by women who wanted to express themselves through jewellery without breaking the bank. The more avant-garde the designs became, the more fans they accrued, shifting jewellery from an exclusive asset gatekept by society’s elite into wearable art accessible to all.

With texts from author, broadcaster and British Vogue editor Carol Woolton, as well as fashion critic and curator Maria Luisa Frisa, Costume Jewelry is an intricate map that traces the rise and rise of how this brilliant bling came to be.

taschen.com