Gems, Gold, Pearls and Jewelry
Phuket Shopppig Guide
Gems, Gold, Silver
Thailand is a leading producer of sapphires and the world's largest
cutter of coloured stones. Thai artisans can also craft jewelry
to suit international tastes, with prices set according to the amount
of workmanship and detail of the individual item. Gold jewellery
and ornaments are also a bargain in Thailand, with prices fixed
according to "baht" weight of the item and the level of
craftsmanship.
Excellent bargains in gold chains, earrings, bracelets, pendants,
and other delicate handcrafted items can be found in most tourist
areas of Phuket, and most major hotels house jewelry stores offer
exquisite pieces for less than you might imagine, with guarantees
of authenticity. Along Ranong Rd in Phuket City are a number of
traditional Chinese-Thai gold shops, distinctive for their completely
red and gold interiors.
Thai silver jewelry is often modeled after the traditional designs
of the hilltribes of Northern Thailand, with bracelets particularly
stunning examples of hilltribe silverwork. Modern styles of bracelets,
as well as pendants, necklaces, beads and rings can also be found.
Most silver sold is labeled '925', which means that it is made of
92.5% pure silver. Silver bowls, boxes, cigarette cases and vases
are widely available. |
| |
Pearls
Cultured pearls, produced locally at Naka Noi Island are also a
good buy. You can find them at many local shops in Phuket City,
specialist jewellery places, or right on the island where they are
cultured. Tours leave daily to Naka Noi Island and include a pearl
demonstration and the opportunity to buy at discounted prices.
The Gems Gallery and Wang Talang are large stores devoted almost
exclusively to jewellery. The range, especially at Gems Gallery,
is huge, with modern European and Asian styles and certificates
issued when you buy. Located on the bypass road on the edge of Phuket
City, near Tesco-Lotus. For lovers of rare and antique jewellery, The
Banyan Tree Galleries feature interesting pieces from around
Asia.
Unless you're an expert in gems and jewellery, it is not recommened
to buy such goods with the intention of reselling them back home
for huge profits. Some elaborate scams have been set up to fool
people into paying a high price for gems that are low quality at
best or even worthless fakes. See the Gems
and Jewellery Advisory for more information. |
More Shopping: Bangkok
shopping, Pattaya
shopping, Hua Hin shopping, Chiang Mai shopping, Hong Kong shopping, Koh Samui shopping, Singapore shopping, Bali
shopping
|
