Fauna: The Art of Jewelry

A glittering collection of jewelry imitating animals from the nineteenth century to today

The animal kingdom has been a source of inspiration for jewelers since the days of antiquity. Chosen for their symbolism, beauty, or personality, a whole menagerie of creatures has been depicted in gemstones and precious metals, ranging from fantastical dragons, griffins, and sphinxes to wild beasts such as boars and big cats, to the delicate forms of birds, fish, and even insects.

The 130 pieces in this...