Blinded by the brilliance

In the book “Dazzled by the Shine,” jeweler and scholar Aja Raiden tells a fascinating story about our unwavering inclination towards beauty and the dark side of human desires, dividing the entire history of mankind into three stages: wanting, taking and owning. Jewelry, which has long served as the basis for wealth and power, glamour and success, has given rise to cultural upheavals, launched political dynasties and caused wars. Flipping through the pages of history, the author offers his own, unexpected perspective on world events. The discovery of America, the rise and fall of the Spanish Empire, the Inquisition, the beginning of the French Revolution, the rivalry between Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor - all these events have one thing in common: the fates of rulers and entire continents were changed by precious jewelry. The story of how eight precious stones shaped the course of history. Answers the question: What makes a stone precious? What makes a jewel priceless? But why are we so eager to possess them at any cost?