"Al-Iqd al-Farid (The Unique Necklace), translated now for the first time into English, is one of the classics of Arabic literature. Compiled in several volumes by an Andalusian scholar and poet named Ibn `Abd Rabbih (246-328 H./860-940 C.E.), it remains a mine of information about various elements of Arab culture and letters during the four centuries before his death. Essentially it is a book of adab, a term understood in modern times to specifically mean literature but in earlier times its meaning included all that a well-informed person had to know in order to pass in society as a cultured and refined individual. This meaning later evolved and included belles letters in the form of elegant prose and verse that was as much entertaining as it was morally educational such as poetry, pleasant anecdotes, proverbs, historical accounts, general knowledge, wise maxims, and even practical philosophy. Ibn `Abd Rabbih's imagination and organization saved his encyclopedic compendium from easily being a chaotic jumble of materials by conceiving of it as a necklace composed of twenty-five 'books', each of which carried the name of a jewel. Each of the twenty-five 'books' was organized around a major theme and had an introduction written by Ibn `Abd Rabbih, followed by his relevant adab selections of verse and prose on the theme of the 'book'. He drew on a vast repertoire of sources including the Bible, the Qur'an, and the "Hadith", and the works of al-Jahiz, Ibn Qutayba, al-Mubarrad, Abu `Ubayda ibn al-Muthanna and several others, and the diwans of many Arab poets, including his own poetry which is why "The Unique Necklace" is a standard text for those interested in classical Arabic literature."--Jacket.

An English translation of "Al-Iqd al-Farid", which is one of the classics of Arabic literature. Compiled in several volumes by an Andalusian scholar and poet named Ibn Abd Rabbih (246-328 H/860-940 CE), it is a mine of information about various elements of Arab culture and letters during the four centuries before his death.

The editors of Beadwork magazine reveal the elegance of pearls with projects, photography, and history in this tribute to nature's iconic gemstone. Step-by-step instructions for 20 stunning projects involving natural, freshwater, and imitation pearls are accompanied by photos to guide jewelry makers of all ability levels through the wide range of materials, colors, and shapes used in these elegant and wearable designs. Broken into three sections, "The Classics" covers traditional pearl stringing and simple earrings, "Special Occasions" includes a striking copper-colored choker and a lariat suitable for a bride, and "Fashion Forward" contains a bangle with fiery-colored pearls and a dramatic bracelet using handmade beads and dyed pearls. Chapters on the science and culture of pearls include tips on selecting, working with, and caring for these treasures, while engaging anecdotes and vibrant images of pearls throughout history round out this informative and entertaining book.

- Simple techniques for making fabulous gemstone and pearl jewelry at home- Projects include bracelets, anklets, earrings, necklaces, and more- Features extensive information on the folklore and healing powers of gemstones and a comprehensive resource section of supplies

Whether you prefer a classic single strand or a funky combination of pearls and semi-precious materials, Simply Pearls shows you how to create necklaces that are easy to make yet look both expensive and professionally made. No longer the extravagance they used to be, pearls come in a variety of types - from freshwater to faux - that make these beautiful gems an affordable and elegant option. With projects designed for beginners and intermediate crafters - with a few more challenging designs for good measure - Simply Pearls is a volume that people will consult again and again for basic stringing, knotting and wire-work techniques; to find inspiration and project ideas, including tips on refreshing heirloom jewellery; and as a materials reference. Whether your look is modern and edgy or classic Chanel, Simply Pearls offers great how-to-wear-it ideas and beautiful projects that will give you the Tiffany s look at budget prices.

Throughout time, people have been fascinated and bewitched by the pearl; its luster, purity, and perfection. It has been featured in jewelry since early civilization and has adorned kings and queens, first ladies, and movie stars. The power of pearls is their remarkable ability to bestow upon the wearer a sense of mystery, elegance, and grace. In contemporary fashion, the technical ability to create new pearl forms in an inexpensive manner has generated an excitement about possibilities of freshwater pearl jewelry. Pearls are not only available in classic round and glistening white form, but in a range of exotic and beautiful colors and shapes. The popularity of the pearl in fashion has never been greater. This is the first jewelry-making book focused on pearls - no longer only seen at church and weddings. The projects range from casual design to bohemian and classic styles, to unique signature pieces in contemporary styles. Chapters cover the development of pearls as a material, their care, proper stringing techniques, an illustrated techniques section, 16 projects and variations, plus a special section on creating jewelry for brides, mother of the bride, and as wedding party accessories and gifts.

The pieces displayed in this text range from unique chokers to artful collars and showcases precious metals and gems and more unusual materials, including plastic, wood, paper and glass.