Jewellery shopping in Asia
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Pathana Boupha Antique House
In an impressive old French mansion, Pathana Boupha carries antique statuary, jewellery, silverwork, Royal Lao government currency and old photos, mostly from the Lao owners’ private collection. It also sells high-quality textiles from various ethnic groups. The late patriarch designed many of the costumes and ornaments used in the former Royal Palace.
reviewed
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Uthai’s Gems
With 40 years in the business, Uthai’s fixed prices and good service, including a money-back guarantee, make him a popular choice among expats. The showroom boasts a huge stock, and gems can be custom-cut to order.
reviewed
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Angel
Original and modern silver designs decorate this shop further bolstering Thailand’s reputation for fine silver jewellery.
reviewed
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Mirota Batik
Miota Batik is a fixed-price shop on Jl Malioboro and a good place to start shopping.
reviewed
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Ibrahim Jewelry
A recommended jeweller that is several cuts above (ahem) the omnipresent gemstone vendors.
reviewed
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HS
Marginally cheaper; always ask for a substantial discount off the marked prices.
reviewed
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E
Premier Jewellery
This third-generation family firm is directed by a qualified gemmologist and is one of our favourite places to shop. The range isn’t huge, but if you’re looking for something particular, give Premier Jewellery a day’s notice and a selection will be ready in time for your arrival. Staff can also help you design your own piece.
reviewed
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F
House Of Gems
The name 'House of Gems' is an interesting sales pitch for a shop claiming to sell dinosaur droppings. If you look in the window, dry cross-sections will teach you the subtle difference between the 'gems' of a carnivorous dinosaur, compared to its herbivorous friends. Don't say we didn't tell you that there's nothing you can't buy in Bangkok.
reviewed
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Kasūkōbō
This open-air jewellery shop on a raised platform has an old-fashioned feel even while the tattooed dude kneeling behind the display cases exudes the casual air of the modern Ura-Hara denizen. Mostly sculpted silver jewellery with themes of lotuses, dragons and koi (carp), the pieces here are simultaneously fresh and modern.
reviewed
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Mikimoto Pearl
Founded in 1899, Mikimoto Pearl was founded by the self-made Mikimoto Kokichi. At an early age he became fascinated with pearl divers and later developed the cultured pearl, building Mikimoto into the most famous of Tokyo's pearl shops. The store is located right next door to Wakō department store in Ginza.
reviewed
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Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, one of our favourite shops along the entire strip, carries a selection of well-made cotton T-shirts silk screened with more than 30 different old Chiang Mai designs, along with equally well-designed silver and bead jewellery and a changing selection of interesting accessories.
reviewed
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Kado Gems Cutting & Polishing Centre
The follow-up project to Threadnet Hunza is designed to empower local women, in this case by training them in gem cutting, polishing and selling. At the time of research the finishing touches were being put on the shop which will eventually sparkle with rubies, sapphire, topaz and quartz.
reviewed
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Thithpeng Maniphone
Thithpeng crafted silverware for Luang Prabang royalty before 1975 (Thailand’s royal family are now some of his best customers). He has 15 apprentice silversmiths but still does the most delicate work himself. To get here follow the signs opposite the Maison Souvannaphoum.
reviewed
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Johnny’s Gems
A long-time favourite of Bangkok expats, Johnny’s Gems is a reliable name in an unreliable business. The namesake founder has since passed away, but his son carries on the spick-and-span reputation, primarily dealing in rubies and emeralds from fun to serious.
reviewed
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mz collection
On entering the night market from Th Phahonyothin you’ll see mz collection on the right-hand side. This shop has unusual handmade silver and semi-precious stone jewellery. Each piece is unique so don’t expect bargain basement prices.
reviewed
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N
Tse Sui Luen
This is the most sparkling of Tse Sui Luen’s dozen or so outlets and is worth visiting for its sheer opulence or garishness – however you see it. There’s another branch in Tsim Sha Tsui (Shop A & B, Ground fl, 190 Nathan Rd).
reviewed
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O
Balikbayan Handicrafts
This is the kind of place that pulls in tourists by the busload. The merchandise is of a surprisingly good quality, considering how much of it they have. The speciality is beautiful, glazed coconut dishware, decorative balls and other products.
reviewed
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Vanishing Tribes
Attractive handicrafts from Dong, Miao, Yao and other ethnic groups, including hand-embroidered shoes and bags amid piles of glistening, elaborate silver jewellery. It's not cheap, but push for the wholesale price to get bargaining under way.
reviewed
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Naga Creations
Specialising in jewellery, Naga Creations produces individual masterpieces using a variety of precious stones and silver. All items are hand crafted and you can see the jewellers at work in the store. Suits all budgets.
reviewed
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Hunza Art Museum
Hunza-Nagyr wool is renowned for its durability, though it's being displaced by factory imitations. Hunza Art Museum is another reliable store, and can provide guarantee certificates for semiprecious stones and gems.
reviewed
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Lin Silvercraft
Lin might be a bit pricier than your average Bangkok silver shop but you know you're getting the genuine article. You can pick up classic pieces like silver chokers, thick bangles and custom-engraved cuff links.
reviewed
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King Fook
King Fook, with a grandiose gilded entrance, stocks a large range of watches, top-end fountain pens and baubles. There’s another branch in Central (Ground fl, King Fook Bldg, 30-32 Des Voeux Rd Central).
reviewed
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Elephant Plus
Almost too upscale and tasteful for the Kata crush, here you’ll find high-end designer jewellery imagined by Mrs Mom Tri, as well as speciality stemware, antique carvings and top-shelf silk sarongs.
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Nova
For contemporary jewellery, this studio hand-makes high-quality rings (7000B to 8000B), pendants and earrings using silver, gold and precious stones. Pieces can be custom made and are very classy.
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V Multi-Gems
Peruse cases of rubies, pearls and sapphires. Sure, it has hideous print shirts and cheesy tea sets, but check out those strands of light-bending cultured pearls. Great deals abound.
reviewed
