Joalharia do Carmo (jewelry store), Lisbon

Portuguese craftsmen are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship in creating gold and silver jewelry. With a rich tradition behind them, these artisans have honed their skills over generations. Portugal's history of colonialism resulted in a significant accumulation of gold and silver, making it one of the world's largest holders of these precious metals (although not anymore). This abundance of materials provided ample opportunities for the smiths and artists to gain expertise and refine their techniques.

Established in 1924, Joalharia do Carmo stands as one of Lisbon's oldest and most exquisite shops. Behind its stunning historic art nouveau facade, the store showcases an impressive collection of gold and silver pieces that could easily be displayed in a museum. Additionally, it offers exclusive Portuguese jewelry, including the traditional handmade gold and silver filigree from the northern region of the country. Here, you can find exquisite handcrafted works of art depicting caravel sailing ships, animals, butterflies, hearts, and other creative designs. The price range for a pendant varies from €20 to €100, while a filigree caravel sailing ship can cost over €1000. Each of these pieces, often adorned with precious stones, would make a splendid gift for any discerning collector of fine jewelry.