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Synopsis For centuries the fabled wealth of India, her gold and gems, brought to her land both merchants and invaders. The tradition of legendary riches went back to antiquity: 5000 years ago, Indian goldsmiths and lapidaries worked in an astonishing variety of materials and techniques; for 3000 years, India was the only known source of Diamonds. This book in five chapters is a look at that tradition, its range, its variety, its best known techniques, its manifestations and significance. From a brief historical overview to an account of contemporary jewellery, from descriptions of courtly jewellery to those worn by rural and tribal peoples, the book is a glimpse of Indian jewellery in its totality. Lavishly illustrated with colour photographs from a number of sources, including museum pieces, this book encapsulates one of the greatest of Indian achievements.