Classic American Costume Jewelry: Identification and Value Guide » (Illustrate)

Jacqueline Rehmann believes the appreciation of beautiful things begins slowly and the seeds are planted in us when we are young. She has admired, appreciated, and collected vintage costume jewelry since she was nine years old. Today she continues to collect vintage costume jewelry with her ten-year-old daughter, who is learning the basics of collecting by accompanying Jacqueline on buying trips.

Author Jacqueline Rehmann, a collector of vintage costume jewelry for over 40 years, features some 400+ pieces from her private collection, and describes each in detail. Her reserach has been exhaustive to ensure her descriptions are accurate and contain the most up-to-date information. She highlights selected pieces by companies which have had little or no exposure in other costume jewelry books. She describes her taste as eclectic and the photos certainly prove that. From World War II retro brooches to the mod 1960s to the revival of costume jewelry in the 1980s, her collection showcases pieces from many different eras. Included is an entertaining introduction in which she provides tips for beginning collectors. This section contains personal anecdotes that chart her collecting triumphs and mishaps. Also included is a brief history of costume jewelry as well as a reference chart of manufacturers' marks, dates, and brief descriptions of chief characteristics.