Costume Jewelry, A Practical Handbook & Value Guide is the first book to provide information regarding the investment potential of one of today"s hottest collecting fields. The breadth of the industry is represented by different types of costume jewelry - defined as fashion jewelry - both domestic and foreign. It provides comprehensive information on a broad range of jewelry, emphasizing the more common, rather than the unique and rare, types of jewelry which most collectors are likely to encounter in the market place. Dealers as well as collectors will enjoy the more than 2,200 pieces featured in full color, and appreciate the wealth of information provided. The author explains the ever-changing market, value scales, and investment tips, as well as hints on cleaning, repairing, displaying, and storing jewelry. This beautiful, full-color book will be a welcome addition to all collectors" libraries. 2002 values. REVIEW: Over 2,000 pieces of American, Austrian, Czechoslovakian, German, Italian, Oriental, and Spanish costume jewelry are featured in this book. Besides the numerous international companies, there are over 100 American manufacturers with background information. Unmarked pieces are given coverage, as well as gold filled and silver jewelry, brass, copper, pewter, tin, plastic, and beaded jewelry.