Antique Jewelry from 1800 to 1939

Appreciating the Dreams

By Ioannis Alexandris

Book Review by Rayan Innue

Since time immemorial, jewelry has played a major role in human society. From religious amulets to showcasing wealth and status, no other wearable art form has been as versatile and desirable as fine gems and jewels. Their history has fillled volumes, and increasing numbers of people are rediscovering the authenticity, charm, beauty, and indeed value of these historic pieces.
     Over nearly 300 pages, Antique Jewelry from 1800 to 1939 – Appreciating the Dreams by antique jewelry expert Ioannis Alexandris, is intended to not only enlighten the reader about the different artistic styles of this period, but also to explain the influences that shaped them, as well as the materials and processes used to craft these beautiful creations. In this way, readers can better appreciate the charm and passion that these jewels evoke so that buyers can make educated purchasing decisions.
     No one is more passionate about jewelry, especially antique pieces, than Ioannis Alexandris who grew up fascinated by the early Disney characters who went into the mines to find precious gems or who collected vast amounts of gold and jewels. When was 12 years old, he had the opportunity to visit his first jewelry exhibition in London, followed by visits to the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. The young man was definitely hooked.
     Later, during his more than three decades of experience traveling the world to find and trade a wide variety of gems and jewels, while specializing in antique pieces, author Ioannis Alexandris has come across some amazing pieces. Many of these are brought to light in this book, which describes in a concise and very colorful fashion the evolution of jewelry over these 140 years.
     When asked why such a busy person would take the time to write a detailed book like this, Alexandris was quick to answer. “I want to share the knowledge that I have acquired over the years so that people can understand if a piece really is an antique and, if so, what period it belongs to and how the dream it engendered so many years ago is alive and well today,” he says.  
     Over the years, Ioannis has dealt with many pieces with record-breaking prices that climb to millions of dollars for his clients. So, what are his favored types of antique jewels? “Art Nouveau is my favorite era,” he smiles, with his preferred artists being Georges Fouquet and Lalique.  While Art Nouveau may be his favorite, he certainly gives the other eras their just due, beginning with an introduction to the 19th century and the influences that ultimately found their way into the artistic expression of jewelry. He divides this section into two parts, from 1800 to 1850 and then 1850 to 1900 with examples of the most popular types of jewelry and their creators.
     From there, the author covers his cherished Art Nouveau period, explaining how this style was articulated in different countries by different artists, and the influences that helped shape it. He delves into the many characteristics of Art Nouveau that are not only seen in jewelry, but in architecture, art, drama, fashion, and more.
     The author takes the same approach with the Belle Époque, showcasing not only jewelry, but glimpses into the fashion, architecture, and art of the period. One of the longer sections is about the prolific Art Deco period, where he illustrates the creativity and skill of a variety of jewelers, along with what influenced them and the prominent personalities that made the jewels famous. But the book doesn't just describe the antique pieces themselves.   Chapter 5 goes into The Art of Enamel, explaining the different types and how they were used during the various periods.
     Alexandris also includes a chapter listing the major artists and a bit about their story as well as images of their marks and signatures, which can be of great help for prospective buyers. He also provides a glossary of the terms used in describing various types of antique jewels as well as the gemstones that were commonly used during each era.
     Finally, the author summarizes the book with suggestions of what to look for when considering a purchase of an antique jewel. He also gives examples of recent copies of older pieces as well as new jewels that incorporate antique elements. This book is an important reference for all jewelry lovers and aficionados.

ISBN 978-3-8316-4967-9
To obtain a copy, contact [email protected]