The influence of the plastic arts, especially painting and sculpture, upon the Hispanic literary movement known as Modernismo is well-documented. Although numerous studies have referred to gems, Beyond the Glitter focuses upon the significance of gems and jewels in elaborating Modernismo's complex aesthetics. The role of gems and jewelry is discussed in the poetics of three prominent Modernista writers: Ruben Dario, Ramon del Valle-Inclan, and Jose Asuncion Silva.

The conclusion underscores how the rich and varied symbolism associated with jewelry and precious gems enriched the poetics of Modernista writers because it enabled them to articulate their quest for ideal beauty, expressive of a sublime state of mind and spirit.