The ultimate reference book on the ethnic jewelery of Asian peoples. This volume provides a vivid and varied insight into body adornment around Asia: ivory, beads, leather, shells, enamel work, precious metals, and stones, alone or in combination, are illustrated throughout. Pieces chosen for their exceptional quality and historical importance, through wonderfully composed photographs, come to life here. It is rare for jewelery to have a solely aesthetic purpose, for above all it is anchored in the social, religious, and political contexts that lend it meaning. A concise introductory essay discloses the field for the general reader and provides valuable background information for jewelers, designers, art historians, collectors, and dealers.