Hong Kong Travel Guide
Hong Kong Travel Guide 2

Jewelry

Hong Kong is the world's fourth largest exporter of jewelry , and there is a wide range of designs available in retail outlets throughout the territory. Because Hong Kong is a free port and there is no tax on the import or export of precious metals, prices are good. Particularly popular jewelry includes Jade items (though you should avoid buying expensive pieces without expert advice) and bright yellow 24-carat gold, called chuk kam in Cantonese. Jewelry stores specializing in chuk kam are usually very crowded and the atmosphere is more akin to that of a betting shop than an exclusive store. These items are sold by the weight of the gold only, so you pay no premium for the design. There are many fine jewelry stores selling a vast range of gem-set designs – here, you pay for the craftsmanship as well as the materials. Another good buy in Hong Kong are pearls, which come in all shapes and sizes and colors. The practice of bargaining is much less common in Jewelry stores now, but you can certainly try your luck by asking for a discount.

Hong Kong Travel Guide