"The esteemed Penland School of Crafts in North Carolina has produced an incredible book by ten master jewelers who are also Penland instructors. This glossy, 9 x 12-inch book explains in detail multiple metalsmithing processes, including electroforming, etching, and hydraulic forming, through beautiful photography in a step-by-step format. The book also covers forging, steel fabrication, lost wax casting, gold alloying, mold making, the use of alginate molds, and goldsmithing basics of rolling sheet and wire from ingots. In addition to its too-pretty-to-be-used-in-the-studio appearance, the book offers a Gallery section in each chapter, where each instructor shares work by fellow artists whom he or she admires. This book is a must-have for anyone who likes to connect written information with clear illustration. The Penland Book of Jewelry fills in crucial information often lacking in this genre, primarily due to each instructor's willingness to share tricks and techniques.

Marthe Le Van has written, edited, or curated more than 30 books. She is a member of the Art Jewelry Forum, The Society of North American Goldsmiths and the Precious Metal Clay Guild.