Housekishou Richard-shi no Nazo Kantei

Housekishou Richard-shi no Nazo Kantei, known in English as The Case Files of Jeweler Richard, originated as a light novel series written by Nanako Tsujimura and illustrated by Utako Yukihiro. First published in 2015 by Shueisha, the series emerged during a period of sustained popularity for light mystery and character-driven drama in the Japanese publishing market. The narrative centers on the professional relationship between Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian, a brilliant and observant British jeweler, and Seigi Nakata, a college student with a strong sense of justice, as they solve various human-interest mysteries centered around gemstone appraisals.

The design and visual tone of the series are heavily influenced by the aesthetic sensibilities of its illustrator, Utako Yukihiro, whose character designs emphasize a delicate, elegant realism that complements the sophisticated subject matter. By focusing on the emotional and historical weight behind jewelry, the series distinguishes itself from more conventional detective fiction. It received critical appreciation for its thoughtful handling of cultural themes and interpersonal dynamics, eventually spawning a manga adaptation and an anime series that helped broaden its international audience beyond its initial light novel readership.