It is eye-opening how a polymer clay can be transformed with unusual techniques (and combinations) by skilled artisans. Under Aimone's remarkable tutelage, polymer clay, called PVC here, becomes Italian millefiore beads, shiny abstract cuffs, intricate log-cabin quilt pins, and even calla lily-like earrings.

Although other instructional polymer clay books exist, up to now all have focused on basic shapes and elemental design. The 14 selected artists do themselves proud by creating 33 items worthy of display and sale in any fine jewelry store. Instructions are complete, with enough visuals to follow. And the pages upon pages of galleries showcase the beauties of a once-modest material.