CHECK IT OUT:

Jewelry and human adornment is as old as human history.

From wooden beads, amber nuggets, shells and feathers found in pre-historic tumuli to precious metals and natural gemstones of all descriptions and hues coveted throughout the ages, the quest for the rare and exotic continues to the present day.

Whether composed of natural, organic materials or man-made, lab-created, chemically altered synthetics, the sparkle and enthusiasm true collectors and admirers exhibit is unmistakable.

Here’s a sampling of titles unique and new.

“Jewels: A Secret History” by Victoria Finlay: This is a fascinating history of selected gemstones with personal observations and on-the-ground reports gathered from real gem mines and highly skilled workers to the collectors and designers. Discover ancient gem lore and legends passed down through generations of precious-stone hunters.

“A Passion for Jewelry: Secrets to Collecting and Caring for Your Jewelry” by Laura Fronty; photographs by Yves Duronsoy: Translated from the French by Cindy Calder, this up-to-date guide offers tips for jewelry care and ideas for selecting pieces based on your taste. Learn to indulge your passion whatever your budget.

“Bejewelled by Tiffany, 1837-1987” edited by Clare Phillips: Louis Comfort Tiffany’s name is associated with gorgeous stained glass, china and glass serving pieces, silverware, and of course, the ultimate in the best-quality diamonds, pearls and colored gems. World-class designers have called Tiffany’s their home and the fabled store has showcased their exclusive designs.

“Collecting Costume Jewelry 101: The Basics to Starting, Building and Upgrading: Identification and Value Guide” by Julia C. Carroll: Experience the thrill of the chase while hunting and purchasing various pieces from famous jewelry designers and examples from vintage collections. This guide covers the basics of specific jewelry-makers’ histories to defining your individual focus.

“Jewelry Savvy: What Every Jewelry Wearer Should Know” by Cynthia A. Sliwa and Caroline Stanley: Accessorize your fashion style from your jewelry wardrobe with pizazz and distinction. Avoid the “Christmas tree” look; instead learn how pieces work or detract from your overall appearance.

“Contemporary Southwestern Jewelry” by Diana F. Pardue: Sterling silver and turquoise have been the staple materials of southwestern jewelry, but the latest trends incorporate new additions such as fine inlay work, enamel, coral, pearl, and lapis lazuli. The pictures of Indian silverwork are magnificent.

“Costume Jewelry” by Judith Miller: Judith Miller is a brand-name author in the evaluation and identification of antiques and fine jewelry. Here she turns her attention to collectible costume jewelry complete with colored photographs and realistic valuations.

CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Public Library. This week’s article is by Mary Ellen Bowman. Use your Newport Beach Public Library card to reserve these titles at www.newportbeachlibrary.org or call (949) 717-3800 and press 2.