A fascinating look at many of the most beautiful costume jewelry pieces made since the 1940s is presented with full color photographs. In chapters arranged chronologically, the jewelry is seen to reflect the changing retail market and manufacturing changes in materials, techniques, and colors. An introduction was written by Lawrence Feldman of Fior in London. The effects of popular heroes and competition are seen to have shaped the costume jewelry industry. The jewelry of such well-known manufacturers as Boucher, Coro, Christian Dior, Grosse, Jomaz, Kramer of New York, Mitchell Maer, Trifari, and many others are displayed and a separate price guide is included. The book portrays the affordable opulence and sheer beauty of costume jewelry.