All that glitters ... is usually gold and in Hong Kong the choice is phenomenal.

Gold, diamonds, pearls, precious gems and ever-popular jade all sit strikingly in every jewellery store window. Hong Kong is a terrific place to buy high-quality pieces of jewellery at extremely reasonable prices.

The Chinese prize jade for its beauty and the luck it's supposed to bring. A top quality stone is judged according to its consistency in colour, translucency and coldness to the touch. The proprietor should give you a proper receipt that details the type and origin of the stone. If you are purchasing jade of significant value, it is advisable to go with someone who is an expert.

Pearls are judged by their lustre, size and the brilliance of light they reflect. Diamonds and a wide selection of precious stones in a range of colours are also readily available at affordable prices.

Time is truly precious in Hong Kong, with the many expensive watches on offer. But if you would rather go for something sporty or funky, there is a wide range of fun and specialised sports models available too.

 

Jewellery & Jade

With so many jewellery stores in the territory, the main difficulty is determining where to start.

On Kowloon side, it's difficult to miss the hundreds of jewellery shops that line the sidewalks on Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok. On Hong Kong Island, fantastic jewellery shopping can be found on Des Voeux Road Central and Queen's Road Central.

While the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei offers an immense selection, it is always wise, when purchasing this revered green stone, to have someone with you who can appraise the quality. For expert guidance on other stones, such as diamonds, contact the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong on +852 23666006.

Styles range from timeless classics to the latest international designs and imaginative costume jewellery. Why not choose your gemstone and have it set to your own design by one of Hong Kong's skilled craftsmen. Gold and platinum should be stamped with the purity level. Hong Kong Tourism Board members must also stamp their identity mark on the metal.

 

Watches

Whether you're looking for a classic timepiece or latest fashion watch, Hong Kong has it all.

Many Hong Kong people have a watch to match different occasions. Enjoy the chance to pick up a watch at duty free prices, from children's models for only a few dollars, bejewelled numbers costing as much as a small car or an antique. When buying an expensive brand-name watch, check that the manufacturer's guarantee offers international coverage and ensure the serial number is written correctly on the receipt as well as the guarantee.

 

 

What is your favorite?

Please make a selection from some of the great buys listed below:

- Arts & Crafts	- Audio & Visual	- Clothing & Tailors
- Furniture & Household	- General Merchandise	- Jewellery & Watches
- Leather Goods	- Optical Goods