I am really excited about the idea of unique and creative jewellery, but a lot of what is on offer in Shanghai is either a little tacky, overpriced designer goods, or from H&M so every girl and her dog is already wearing it. Any suggestions?

Best,

Accessorise or Die

Dear AOD,

One of the delights of being in Shanghai is having the opportunity to do things that wouldn’t necessarily even occur to you in your own country. Designing your own jewellery and having it custom-made is one of those treats.

My favourite place to do this is the Hongqiao Pearl Market on Hongmei Lu (near Yan’an Xi Lu). Pearls aren’t the only option in this abundant market. There are all types of stones, shells and sparkles and what can be done with them is only limited by your imagination. You can choose your materials and have the vendors make them up for you (no extra charge) or take away a selection and do it yourself if you are craftily inclined.

Yu Gardens Accessory Market (corner Renmin Lu and Lishui Lu) also has all manner of beads, crystals, glass, pearls and more which you can buy in bulk and make up to your own design. This is more of a wholesale place to buy your materials and then take them away to make them up. If you buy in bulk, it is cheaper here than the Pearl Market.

Yiwu is of course the ultimate place to go for range and variety. The price here is also significantly cheaper than in Shanghai. This is definitely a wholesale area though, it’s not worth a visit just to make up a few items of jewellery – think hundreds.

If you have a precious stone which you really want made into something special, but are worried about taking your stone to any old jeweller, we suggest you visit Sherry or one of her staff at Ash Fine Jewellery (587 Huanghua Lu, near Hongjin Lu) for beautiful quality and fantastic service (English and Chinese). This is also the place for the boys to visit if they are thinking of a unique design for an engagement or eternity ring. Sherry will help with diamonds and precious or semi precious stones – or you can feel confident taking along your own.