Publisher's Synopsis
William Jones takes on the difficult tasks of collecting and categorizing the many ways that precious gems have taken on value in different cultures. For example, he studies pearls and the appeal that they have had in different cultures, time periods, uses and across various religious rituals including Judaism, Christianity and the occult. His work tends to highlight lore and legend.Jones was deeply devoted to his research of all things jeweled and ornamental. He wrote several books on related topics, including Finger-Ring Lore: Historical, Legendary and Anecdotal; Crowns & Coronations: A History of Regalia and Credulities Past and Present.This new edition is dedicated to Kelvin Low, who takes a special interest in things gold and silver, both old and new, Asian and American.
