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"Embellishment with glittering substances is a worldwide and ancient practice." "Combining an artist's eye with an in-depth knowledge of textile techniques, Victoria Rivers has spent more than a decade in her quest for the most spectacular examples of this universally appealing phenomenon. Drawing on an extraordinary array of specialist and inaccessible anthropological research from every continent, she examines the lustrous qualities of silk and the special dyeing techniques and other treatments that give fabric surfaces shimmering qualities; explores the use of gold, silver, metals, sequins, beads and mirrors for decoration; and shows how other gifts of nature - shells, seeds, feathers and beetle wings - are cleverly manipulated to simulate more precious materials." "This illustrated, and original odyssey through the world's cultures is essential reading for anyone concerned with the history of textiles and contemporary fashion, as well as all those interested in symbol and ceremonial practice in traditional societies."--Jacket.