Precious : Doubleday : 9780857529091 : 0857529099 : 23 May 2024 : Discover a dazzling deep-dive into the history of the world through a totally new lens, as told by the V&A's Senior Jewellery Curator. Includes 16 pages of colour photography showcasing some of the world's most spectacular jewellery. 'A magnificent compendium of everything one could ever want to know about jewels: their symbolism, physical construction, worth and history.' Spectator 'Engaging and illuminating, Precious is a masterclass in the history of gems. It's also great fun to read - one of those books where the learning is effortless' - Francesca Cartier Brickell, author of The Cartiers 'This is - fittingly - a gem of a book. Rich descriptions, fascinating histories and, at times, just pure, dazzling bling. A joy to read.' - Tracy Borman, author of Elizabeth's Women, Thomas Cromwell and The Private Lives of the Tudors' ------- Travelling through moments in history and layers of soil and sediment, this is world