From the diamond mines in Africa to the emerald mines of the New World, Raden takes the reader on a journey like no other. And along the way your are some historical facts that might be the perfect trivia answer
First there is the section on Want - Desire, Delusion and the Scarcity Effect. How did the Dutch buy the island of Manhattan for $24 worth of beads from the Lenape Indians? Was it bad deal for the Indians or was there more to the story. The beads we not plastic worthless toys, they were in fact Murano glass, never before seen in the New World. That's what made them valuable.
Ever hear the phrase Diamonds are Forever? Did you think it is customary to spend two months salary on an engagement? Well both the phrase and the custom were developed by two marketing professionals at N.W. Ayer in 1938.
In another section you'll learn the myths and misconceptions swirling around Marie Antionette and her so-called necklace theft.
Other facinating facts include:
* Fabrege eggs and the Russian czars
* How World War I was the impetuous for the development of the wrist watch
* A necklace once owned by "Bloody" Mary Tudor, coveted by Elizabeth I and found its way around Elizabeth Taylor's neck
* The development of cultured pearls
And much more. This is a fascinating book and an excellent read. For other books by Aja Raden, click here.
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