20th Century Jewelry and the Icons of Style by Stefano Papi, Alexandra Rhodes

• Publisher Thames & Hudson
• ISBN 0500519005
• Year 2016

Book selected by Pablo Fuster, director of Relojeria Alemana for Gran Meliá Victoria Library Collection.

For many centuries, collecting precious jewels was the province of kings and queens, emperors, and maharajas. But in the aftermath of the First World War, royal gems passed into the hands of a different kind of elite that included celebrities and a coterie that reveled in a nouveau riche whirl. Changes in fashion and the rise of Art Deco style led them to reset pieces or commission exquisite contemporary designs. Authors Stefano Papi and Alexandra Rhodes explore this dazzling era via profiles of eleven glamorous women who built up astonishing jewelry collections in the mid-twentieth century. The authors reveal the remarkable stories behind the jewels and their collectors. Not only do they bring to life the worlds in which these women moved, but they also describe the gems in detail and chronicle the work of the leading jewelers of the day, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Harry Winston. The book is illustrated with gorgeous close-up photography of the jewels as well as drawings of the original designs, and includes portraits of the collectors by Beaton, Horst, and other leading photographers of the time.

Relojeria Alemana: Founded in 1879, is one of the most emblematic stores in Palma, having currently four stores in the island. With more than 135 years working exclusively with the best brands place, Relojería Alemana has become a reference in the world of watches and jewellery. Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, IWC… and many others live together in their displays along with the exceptional pieces of jewellery of Pomellato, Bulgari, Ole Lynggaard or Vernier.

Library Collection at Gran Melia Victoria