Jewelry + Gems

Evelyn Hofer, New York

Anjelica Huston wearing "The Jealous Husband" (c. 1940), by Alexander Calder, in a 1976 photograph by Evelyn Hofer. Calder's jewlery is currently featured in a major museum show.

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Just ask anyone who acquires it, wears it or works with it: Jewelry inspires a zeal quite unlike anything else. From the fabulous facets that light up auction salesrooms to the unique creations forged in a goldsmith’s studio, these pieces are more than just shiny baubles or mere craft. Even museums are taking notice—and collectors can’t take their eyes off the stuff. Prepare to be dazzled.

Diamond Minded
Global demand for gems and jewelry—especially precious stones—is strong, fueled by newly wealthy buyers looking for spectacular luxury objects.

Rock Stars
Other cities may be cutting in on its territory, but as a new exhibition shows, Antwerp remains the center of the diamond trade. 

Jewel in Its Crown
Finally, London's V&A Museum has a gem gallery that is worthy of the sparklers it contains.

Piece by Piece
Figurative or abstract, wearable or not, studio jewelry is inspiring a small but passionate following.

Set in Memory
Is it possible for jewelry experts to choose just one all-time favorite piece? Seven professionals in the field pick the most memorable gems they have seen.

"Jewelry + Gems" originally appeared in the May 2008 issue of Art+Auction. For a complete list of articles from this issue available on ARTINFO, see Art+Auction's May 2008 Table of Contents.