It will quit assigning the stones specific color and clarity grades in favor of applying “new descriptive terminology.”
Sotheby’s Takes 500-Page Jewelry Reference Book Digital
“Understanding Jewellery” is available now in an app for tablets, offering an in-depth look at jewelry and gemstones from the 18th century to the present.

London—Thirty years after the release of the “Understanding Jewellery” reference book, Sotheby’s is making all the information plus some available digitally via a new app.
Sotheby’s specialists David Bennett and Daniela Mascetti wrote the original 500-page resource, which offers a look at the history, styles, and craft of jewelry from the 18th century to the present for professionals, collectors and enthusiasts.
The app features the full content of the book, plus new high-resolution images of approximately 1,000 pieces of jewelry in a visual library, as well as updated news and auction highlights.
It makes the information available in an interactive way, incorporating features like a search filter designed to create a seamless user experience, Sotheby’s said. The app can be used to identify gemstones and learn about the evolution of jewelry over two centuries.
Sotheby’s said the education app will continue to expand, with future developments including promotions of Sotheby’s’ events, fairs, and exhibitions.
It constantly will be updated with videos, images, and descriptions of sale highlights chosen by Bennett and Mascetti from upcoming jewelry auctions, accompanied by their personal comments and opinions.
It also will expand to include social features, allowing users to share images and text from within the app via email, message or Airdrop, and eventually allowing users to create their own virtual collection of jewelry and add personal comments.
“Understanding Jewellery” is available for $19.99 in the Apple Store and Google Play store. Due to the large amount of material and high-resolution images, it’s only designed for tablets, not computers or smartphones.
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