Review of Coveted high jewelry book by Melanie Grant | The Jewellery Editor

In ‘Coveted Art and Innovation in High Jewellery’ Melanie Grant explores the work of 75 jewellers that cross the line between decorative and fine art. In doing so, Ms Grant unearths staggering design concepts, groundbreaking use of materials and convention-smashing propositions of sublime beauty. A life-long lover of jewels, Ms Grant sees these precious creations as: ‘Inherently human ... and utterly spellbinding, tied to the ongoing evolution of humanity in complex and glorious ways.’ Ms Grant is well-placed to offer a thinking woman's take on high jewellery as luxury editor at the The Economist’s 1843 magazine as well contributor to global jewellery publications.

First-time author Ms Grant dedicated three years to producing the book and interviewed some 150 jewellers from around the world. Ms Grant shares her passion and profound knowledge as she guides the reader through the nuances of what makes a jewel much more than a sum of its precious parts into a work of art worthy of coveting.

The book is lavishly illustrated with 190 beautiful photographs of jewels from not only the hallowed names of Place Vendôme and Bond Street but rising stars to look out for and independent jewellery artists favoured by the cognoscenti.

The book is divided into five thematic chapters that study key design evolutions over the ages and their enduring effect on contemporary designers and consumers as well as innovation and craftsmanship. The first chapter looks at Modernism; followed by the cultural cross-pollination of Eastern and European jewellery styles with further chapters dedicated to material innovation, the natural world as inspiration and women’s empowerment.

Coveted is described by publisher Phaidon as ‘a dazzling entrée into its (jewellery’s) glittering history and increasing relevance in the art world…and the perfect gift for anyone who has ever paused by the windows of Tiffany’s around breakfast time.’

Published by Phaidon, The Jewellery Editor's readers receive a 20% discount using the code: COV20. Click here to purchase your copy.

Coveted by Melanie Grant explores high jewellery as an art form showcasing and discussing the most exquisite creations from both the famous big names in jewellery as well as the work of innovative designers from around the world.
Melanie Grant explores the world of nature as a source of inspiration and looks at the work of jewellers such as Daniela Villegas who interpret the theme in novel and thought-provoking ways.
The beautiful jewellery photos in Coveted by Melanie Grant are a tribute to the work of 75 exceptional jewellery designers. The book explores conceptual approaches, provenance of materials, quality of design, composition and workmanship.
"Coveted" by first-time author Ms Grant took three years to write and is based on the author's vast knowledge as well as 150 interviews with judiciously selected jewellers from around the world.
To find out more about this incredible Colombian emerald cuff by Bina Goenka, open page No151 of Melanie Grant's book Coveted and read about its concept and why this jeweller's work is so very special.
Melanie Grant is the Luxury editor of 1843, a bi-monthly lifestyle magazine and sister publication of The Economist newspaper. She is the author of “Coveted: Art and Innovation in High Jewelry” (2020).