Simple watch battery purchase…read more Staff were attentive and kind, shop was clean. Great range of products. However the mark-up of a $3 battery to $15 was too much. I was told that this was the going rate for a 'branded' product and that I should check the local shoe repairer as it would be the same. They said that the other, cheaper battery alternatives would fail in a month and battery acid would ruin my watch. I purchased their battery but checked at the local shoe repairer on my way home - same battery $5. Damn. Check your prices before shopping here. We want to support local shopping - but keep it reasonable!

Beautiful little jewelry shop on High Street, Ashburton. John helped me find a suitable backing for…read moremy diamond earring. I was waiting only a few minutes and the staff was so lovely. Family run business by the sound of it.

Mario's has been in the business for 30 years. There is no doubt that these guys sell quality hand…read morecrafted jewellery at a fraction of the normal retail price. As gold and silver are constantly being marked up you never know if you are getting a good deal. Mario's sells the latest makes and models at great price and if you are buying for more than one occasion be prepared to work some negotiating skills. This is also a great place to go if you are looking to melt down pre-loved jewellery and design something unique from scratch.

This is a great little destination for some basic pieces, or a large and impressive statement piece…read moreof jewellery. Only occupying a small amount of space, the cabinets are laden with some fabulous earrings, bracelets and necklaces. I've bought some pieces from this little store and am always impressed by the wide range of stones and metals. They always have excellent pearls, amber, garnets and silver. The cabinet devoted to rings and different sort of bracelets and bangles is always exciting; it includes enormous silver cuffs and more masculine and edgy designs. The pearl collection is also really fantastic. The last time I was there Portobello's had some drop pearls set into silver flowers, they were around $40, and there are colour combinations from the creamy white to deep purple. The service is friendly and genuine, although considering the size of the store the service can be stretched when it gets busy. Portobello's also do some lovely gift-wrapping.

The most amazing jewellery store I've been into in Melbourne (and I've been into plenty). Just…read morelike a gallery - full of exquisite and artistic pieces for the woman who likes to make a statement. Most recently for me was a big bubble necklace made of clear glass. Complete with staff who know their craft and don't make you feel awkward. Whether you're wanting to buy a special piece or to simply spend a lazy Saturday looking at beautiful things... Bini is the place for you (and conveniently situated near iconic Gertrude Street).

From the owner: Contemporary Design Jewellery handmade by International and Australian Artists/Makersread more

This is a great little shop full local, artisan jewelry. While it's overwhelmingly targeted for…read morewomen (earrings, rings, necklaces, etc.) there was also a modest selection of cufflinks and rings for men. Prices are more mid-range - expect rings to run $60+. There are a range of styles though I would describe much of it as slightly alternative/funky, definitely modern. There's a lot of silver and a lot of non-precious metals. Definitely worth a look if you're in the area!