Paris: Where to Shop [IV]

Parisians don't accessorize too much- you won't see too many stacked bangles or long layered necklaces on rue de Rivoli. But, as with all other elements of fashion, what they do, they do very well. A carefully chosen watch, subtle but uniquely shaped studs, a delicate necklace... If you're looking for accessories that you'll wear and love for a lifetime, Paris is the place to find them.

When in Paris, shop for jewellery at...

Gudule Sa - 70, rue Saint-André-des-Arts      (M) Saint-Michel

You won't see any price tags at Gudule; almost all of the jewelry here is sold by weight. Don't worry- there don't have to be surprises. You can have your favourite items weighed before deciding which ones to buy. (Buyer beware: the most expensive items are kept in locked cases. Anything that has to be liberated by an employee will not be a budget buy.) The pieces here are imported from Africa, most of them handmade by Tuareg women. Expect intricately shaped silver pendants, earrings and bracelets dotted with semi-precious amber, moonstone and quartz. It can look a bit bohemian, particularly in such a high concentration, but paired with the right outfit, Gudule's jewels are positively chic.

Harem - 130, boulevard Saint-Germain /8, cour du commerce Saint-André       (M) Odéon

Nestled into a small alleyway between rue Saint-André-des-Arts and boulevard Saint-Germain you will find Harem, a romantic and feminine shop. The window displays positively glitter. Step inside to find a unique collection of jewelry from French lines like Tortuga, Babylone and, my personal favourite, Jacqueline Singh. [Note: Jacqueline also has her own boutique; see below.] Although all the pieces you'll find here are new, they have an antique, vintage feel... a timeless quality that will make you come back to them again and again over the years.

In a Red Box - 163, rue Saint-Martin       (M) Rambuteau

I haven't visited this small jewelry shop myself, but I've heard wonderful things about it. In a Red Box has a group on Facebook and will soon offer online shopping through their website. It's definitely worth visit when you're in Paris. Everything really does come in a red box.

Jacqueline Singh - 40, rue des Petits Champs      (M) Pyramides

My favourite Parisian jeweler recently opened her first retail shop in the 2eme arrondissement. I love vintage jewelry- antiqued gold, sparkling gem stones and enormous cocktail rings. Every year, Jacqueline Singh makes two collections- spring and fall- that satisfy every single one of my jewellery desires, all in of-the-moment colours. Vintage lovers and classic beauties, don't miss Jacqueline's shop. Even if the jewellery I described really doesn't sound like your style, visit Jacqueline's shop. Every single piece of her jewelry is handmade in France. Even if you don't love it, I can guarantee that you know someone who will.

As always, if you know of any other wonderful jewellery shops, feel free to share! Happy shopping!