READ THIS: Jewels by JAR Published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Essay by Adrian Sassoon Distributed by Yale University Press Our Coverage Sponsored by Pacicco & Pacicco
Pacicco & Pacicco began in 1945 by Alfred M. Pacicco on Canal Street in Manhattan, the Diamond District of the era. From its inception, Pacicco & Pacicco has been a specialist in fine quality diamonds dedicated to a philosophy of honesty and integrity. In 1948 Pacicco & Pacicco relocated to the Diamond District of today at 29 West 47th Street and is owned and operated by Alfred's son, jeweler Michael Pacicco. Michael brings an unparalleled expertise having benefited from the immersion in this trade of precision from two generations prior. With an illustrious family-run history, Pacicco & Pacicco today uses cutting edge computer-generated technology combined with decades of personal experience to help you make your diamond dreams a reality. Pacicco & Pacicco utilizes incomparable craftsmanship in creating and customizing your bespoke perfect diamond engagement ring. Even before Whom You Know existed, we worked with Michael and we highly recommend celebrating the best moments of your life-you don't have to be engaged to enjoy their diamonds!- with Manhattan's premiere jeweler to be trusted with your dreams: Pacicco & Pacicco.
Pacicco & Pacicco
-by appointment only-
29 West 47th Street
Mezzanine Five
Contact Michael Pacicco via email to make your appointment: mapacicco@verizon.net
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One of the most beautiful exhibits this year at The Metropolitan Museum of Art was Jewels by JAR, and we'd say judging from the times we visited it, it was one of the most popular as well. (Click each link to see first the announcement of the exhibit by The Met, and second, our visit there.) Though the exhibit has ended, the exhibit can go on forever on your coffee table thanks to the equally stunning book distributed by the Yale University Press. The presentation is one of the best we've ever seen by a book, which is commensurate with the high quality of the pictures contained, which of course mirrors each exquisite piece in real life-you'll have to take our word on the last part. We loved the exhibit however, though we may dream of it, jewelry will not be literally falling out of this book when you open it.
The dedication reads:
"With Infinite Graditude
Just as each stone and its particular facets add to the brilliance of a jewel, so your enthusiasm, your conviction, your wearing these jewels, have made happiness at JAR, all of this mysteriously leading to our being here under the greatest roof, The Metropolitan Museum of Art. For this, we thank you beyond diamonds, beyond words."
Joel Rosenthal
We love that this gorgeous book was printed in Italy, and it slides out of a gracious deep rose box, that is stamped with class, not too largely we might add with a simple "JAR." We applaud the idea of less is more in most cases. You'll find the above butterfly on the cover and the vivid quality of the pictures are among the best we've ever seen. Art Dealer and Author Adrian Sassoon penned the opening essay well, and it's by The Metropolitan Museum of Art-Director Thomas P. Campbell wrote the foreward- and distributed by Yale University Press, New Haven (Up with Connecticut!) and London. To celebrate 25 years of JAR, an exhibit was held at Somerset House in London in 2002-3. (A great place for skating as well, in the winter!)
It's incredible to know that as a young boy, Joel Rosenthal himself visited The Met frequently to sketch his favorite works. The visuals contained speak louder than any words we can say, so be sure to order this book, and know it makes an excellent gift as well for anyone who appreciates fine art and fine jewelry. From the mulitstrand necklace 1999, Diamonds and Platinum on page 24, to the bangle and flexible bracelets that are not like any other bangle or flexible bracelet you've seen before, to the highly creative Sheep's Head Brooch, to the amazingly innovative Seesaw Earrings, to the cascading jewels awaiting you page after page, this book is a masterpiece because the jewelry itself is. Enjoy life, and read it.
Jewels by Jar, the book, is Highly Recommended by Whom You Know!
Essay by Adrian Sassoon
“Joel Arthur Rosenthal would prefer that we use our own eyes to look at his creations in person or through the images in his books, rather than ask him too many questions. Working under his initials—JAR—Rosenthal has an appetite to design beautiful jewels and works of art using the natural colors of gemstones, pearls, and other unlimited natural materials, set in metals that are sometimes subject to a degree of alchemy. Rosenthal’s pleasure in creating these objects is more complete knowing that the owner feels wonderful when wearing his work.”
– from the introductory essay
Renowned for his novel use of color and sculptural form, Joel Rosenthal is now recognized as one of the most significant, playful, and innovative creators of jewels of modern times. This album, featuring nearly 70 pieces from throughout Rosenthal’s career and an introductory essay by Adrian Sassoon, provides a concise, accessible retrospective of the best of JAR’s jewels—both an elegant keepsake in its own right and a stunning celebration of a uniquely mesmerizing designer.
144 pp., 69 color illustrations
7 ¼ x 8 1/8 in.
ISBN: 978-0-300-19868-3
