Best Jewelry Design Books of 2026

The Little Book of Chanel (Little Books of Fashion, 3) is a monograph that explores the life and work of one of the most iconic fashion designers of all time, Coco Chanel. From her early beginnings in millinery to her groundbreaking contributions to women's sportswear, the book offers a detailed account of her evolution and the lasting impact of her creations. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs, sketches, and catwalk shots, making it a must-have for any fashion enthusiast. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to any fashion history collection.

The Little Book of Gucci is a captivating read that tells the story of the historic Italian fashion brand, from its founding by Guccio Gucci in 1921 to its current success under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele. The book explores the visionary looks that have made Gucci a household name in the fashion industry, from the signature dark brown diamond print to the iconic belt, bag, and loafer. Written by Karen Homer, an established fashion journalist, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of fashion and Italian luxury. Overall, it is a well-researched and beautifully illustrated book that captures the essence of Gucci's enduring appeal.

Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History is a stunning compilation of storytelling and visuals that spans the history of hip-hop jewelry. The book showcases hundreds of extraordinary images of every major hip-hop artist on record, celebrating how “Ice” has become a proclamation of identity and self-expression. Author Vikki Tobak goes into great detail about the work of pioneering jewelers and newer artisans. With a foreword by Slick Rick and essays by A$AP Ferg, LL COOL J, Kevin “Coach K’ Lee and Pierre “P” Thomas, Ice Cold goes beyond the ostentatious bling to reveal a transformative story that is loud and proud. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in hip-hop culture and fashion.

The Little Book of Chanel by Lagerfeld: The Story of the Iconic Fashion Designer (Little Books of Fashion, 15) is a beautifully illustrated book that covers Karl Lagerfeld's most exquisite pieces, breathtaking catwalk shows, and constant reinvention that have maintained Chanel as the most illustrated couture house in the world. Written by Emma Baxter-Wright, the bestselling author of Little Book of Chanel, this book is the essential guide to Lagerfeld's tenure at Chanel. It provides a fascinating insight into the creative genius of Lagerfeld and his contribution to the Chanel legacy. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion history and the iconic designer.

The Little Book of Prada is a beautifully illustrated and pocket-sized monograph that delves into the history and heritage of the iconic fashion house. Laia Farran Graves documents the brand's evolution and innovations, as well as its design ethos, which is informed by minimalism and contemporary art. With individual garment images, catwalk shots, and fashion photography, this book pays tribute to one of the world's most influential fashion houses and its creator, Miuccia Prada. This book is a perfect gift for any fashion lover who appreciates understated elegance, luxury, and originality in design.

The "Wristwatch Annual 2023: The Catalog of Producers, Prices, Models, and Specifications" is a must-have guide for collectors of mechanical wristwatches. It contains comprehensive information on over 1,400 models from 130 international brands, including the latest offerings from the most important watch producers. The book is organized alphabetically by producer, and each watch's movement, functions, case, band, price, and variations are fully described. This year's edition also features additional articles on independent watchmaking, key personalities in the watch world, and the technical aspects of horology. The illustrated glossary and primer on watch care will help acclimate readers to the world of fine timepieces. Highly recommended for watch enthusiasts and collectors.

The Little Book of Versace: The Story of the Iconic Fashion House is a beautifully illustrated book that tells the story of the brand from its beginnings in 1978 to its current iconic status. The book showcases key pieces, red-carpet moments, and stunning catwalk shows that have made Versace a beloved brand in fashion and pop culture. Written by fashion and beauty journalist Laia Farran Graves, this book is a must-read for fashion enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world.

The Lapidary Bible is a comprehensive guidebook for anyone interested in cutting, polishing, and faceting gemstones, from beginners to advanced. The author breaks down the craft into manageable steps and provides detailed instructions and high-quality images to help readers understand the process. The book also covers essential tools, safety precautions, and tips for choosing the right materials. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in lapidary work, regardless of skill level.

Schreiner: Masters of Twentieth-Century Costume Jewelry is a must-have for any jewelry collector or enthusiast. This book offers a concise history of Schreiner, one of North America's foremost designers of high-end costume jewelry. With hundreds of stunning photographs, the book explores the cultural context and significance of Schreiner jewelry, as well as offering object-based analyses and archival documentation of various Schreiner pieces. The book also aids collectors in identifying unsigned Schreiner jewelry. This is a valuable addition to any jewelry design book collection, and a perfect holiday gift for a fellow jewelry lover.

Bunny Mellon Style is a captivating account of an American style icon, Bunny Mellon, who was not only an art collector and philanthropist but also a designer of homes and gardens. The book details how her style evolved and how she became a confident hands-on designer in a privileged world. The authors conducted original research, uncovering Mrs. Mellon's personal writings and correspondences, speaking with people who knew her and were employed by her, and blending stories and accounts from a wide variety of viewpoints. The book is a unique perspective on a remarkable woman who was disciplined, self-taught, and accomplished in myriad ways. Bunny Mellon Style is a must-read for design enthusiasts and anyone interested in twentieth-century design.