Bulgari: Serpenti Collection

Since the 1940s, with the creation of bracelet-watches in the form of a snake, the serpent has been one of Bulgari's most emblematic and eternal symbols. Representing everything from birth, rebirth, beauty, sex appeal, and wisdom in Greek mythology and Roman civilization, the snake motif also alludes to founder Sotirio Bulgari's Greek heritage and adopted home of Rome. This new tome explores the Serpenti collection's rich heritage, distinguished elegance, and status as one of the Roman jewelry house's contemporary icons. Featuring imagery of Elizabeth Taylor, who famously sported a serpent-shaped watch while filming Cleopatra in 1962; Marisa Berenson; and Diana Vreeland, who, in one of her legendary Vogue memos, declared her fascination for the snake motif, this oversize book speaks to the timelessness, sensuality, and beauty of Bulgari's Serpenti collection.

Marion Fasel is an acclaimed jewelry historian, editor, and author. Hollywood Jewels; Bejeweled: Great Designers, Celebrity Style; and With This Ring: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Jewelry are among the five books she co-authored with Penny Proddow. Fasel has been a contributing editor at InStyle since launching the magazine's award-winning coverage of fine jewelry and watches in 1996.