Queen's Necklace (2003)

About this game

From the slums, where purse-snatchers and courtesans work their respective trades, to the inner salons of the Louvre, where confessors, royal astrologers, musketeers, and court favorites mingle and scheme in hushed conversations, the position of King's Jeweler has suddenly become a lot more dangerous! Set in Paris, on the eve of the French Revolution, Queen's Necklace is a game of gem-selling, influence, and intrigue at the court. Two to four players compete in the role of royal jeweler to sell rare jewels to the Queen and her court. Jeweler's loupe in hand, you must decide how best to spend your hard-earned ducats: acquiring beautiful gems (diamonds, emeralds, and rubies); or buying the favors of the various court followers. After three years of craftsmanship, the jeweler who sells the most precious gems and builds the largest fortune will receive the coveted title of King's Jeweler and a place at the court!

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Works with 2 to 4.
• Rules load. At 1.9/5 this is a light game — explain it in a few minutes, good for a table that has not played much.
• Age. The publisher suggests 8 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.