I am a local jewelry designer (meaning where I live I sell my creations) and use foreign coins or beads and components to create jewels.

I am thrilled to being going to India in Feb and am certain I will find many great treasures. I will buy beads and jewelry fittings as well as old pieces to take apart and create new.

I'm feel certain I won't have trouble finding what I like but If you have a particular place or merchant you can recommend that would be great. I don't think I can afford precious stones.
I will be in Delhi, Nagaur, Fort Dhamli, Udaipur, Chittograph, Bundi, Jaipur, Mandawa and Hardiwar.

Many Thanks.

Or....maybe a shop to avoid?

My advice would be to avoid branded stores. These mega jewelers take a lot of fee and do not deliver quality products as much as the local jewelers do. Avoid joyAllukas, Allukas , TBZ jewelers and especially Kalyan Jewelers.

Are you going to have a car and driver? They are something's good resources of local wares. Also ask the concierge ,maybe even email ahead so he can do some local research for you. I would think in the smaller towns you might find something more unique and hand made vs. Delhi where things might be mass produced . Good luck and let us know what you find. It will be a fun trip seeking out your goodies.

Thank you both. Yes, we will have a driver and as you suggested perhaps he can help with local markets.

Can't wait!