5 Best Shopping in Cayman Islands

This shop is the domain of Martina and Philip Cadien, who studied at Germany's prestigious Pforzheim Goldsmithing School. The showroom sparkles appropriately, with breathtaking handcrafted pieces—usually naturally colored diamonds set in platinum or 18K white, yellow, and rose gold—framed and lovingly, almost sensuously lit. Although there are simpler strands, this is a place where flash holds sway; the prices take your breath away, but the gaudy gems are flawless.

Artist and raconteur Tenson Scott fashions exquisite jewelry from Caymanite (he climbs down from the lighthouse without ropes to chisel the stone), triton shells, sea eggs, and more unusual materials—hence the name, which stands for Native Island Made. His wife, Starrie, creates delicate works from sea urchins, hardening the shell with epoxy: cute turtles, bud vases, and planters decorated with minuscule shells.

Locals appreciate Island Jewellers for its affordable line of watches, especially top-notch Swiss brands, from Movado to Marvin and Maurice Lacroix, and selection of stunning diamonds and jewelry. There's another branch with similar inventory in the Flagship Building.

Befitting its name, Magnum Jewelers traffics in high-caliber pieces by the elite likes of Girard-Perregeaux and Harry Winston for a high-powered clientele. A talented team sources distinctive contemporary watches and bijoux (especially increasingly rare colored diamonds) for its equally glittery celebrity clientele, who appreciate a bargain like the rest of us. Smaller spenders might appreciate whimsical items such as pendants with hand-painted enamel sandals or crystal-encrusted purses.

In the heart of George Town owner Rakesh Baksani handpicks only the most stunning and desirable rocks—emeralds, sapphires, tanzanites, and of course, glittering diamonds. You'll find them all on display at competitive duty-free prices on the bustling waterfront in the country's capital.