Navigating the antique jewelry world can be a daunting experience. But writer and editor Beth Bernstein, with her 20-plus years of industry experience, is here to tell you that if there’s a will, there’s a way in her new book, The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery (ACC Art Books). Releasing May 12, the 192-page book is a journey through time, history, and culture as seen through the lens of antique jewels. It covers the 18th century through the early-20th century and makes the market digestible for the modern reader. The guide combines conversational storytelling with authoritative recommendations, acting also as a travel resource for where to go and who to meet.

“I created a list of the people I thought were the top-notch independent dealers and high-end stores that I had the pleasure of meeting or doing business with or interviewing for articles and those that were not only knowledgeable but possess integrity, jewels with authenticity, and were wonderful about educating their customers,” Bernstein said in a statement. “They all bring different bits of knowledge on how they view certain periods and pieces. My goal for the book was to be more interactive for those who read it. If they desire the know-how to build a jewelry collection, they will want different opinions and to meet these dealers or stop into these exquisite shops. It is an introduction to the world of antique jewelry and without the voices and expertise of the stores and dealers, part of the story I wanted to tell would have been missing.”

Beyond insider insights and trade secrets, the comprehensive tome includes recommendations for everything including (but not limited to!) how to define your personal style, the hidden meaning between different types of gems, the 10 essential pieces every collection needs, how to wear antique jewelry, how to care for your collection, and plenty more. 

And hey, if not for the knowledge, The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery is a feast for the eyes.

Top: The cover of The Modern Guide to Antique Jewellery (ACC Books) by Beth Bernstein (photo courtesy of the author)