Would a jewelry shop here be a good place to find a nice silver artisan style ring? If not, any recommended places in Florence, Rome or Venice that sells unique silver/semi-precious jewelry that won't break the bank. Am I crazy to say less than $300?

Thanks!

Walk down the street from the Ponte Vecchio (in the opposite direction of the Uffizzi) to the next bridge. Near the corner is a silver shop -- forgot the name. Go after 3 p.m. and ask for Luisa. She's an American living in Florence. She has some nice stuff, and I think you could find something there for around $300.

I have purchased rings from S. Vaggi Ponte Vecchio on 3 different occasions. They have 2 stores, one at the end on the duomo side of the Arno and one in the middle. I paid less than $300 for each one. They are each 18k gold with a semi-precious stone. I had them appraised at home and I paid far less for them than what they would cost here. I don't recall if they had silver but I wasn't looking for it. I'm sure you can find something unique in your price range. Have a fun trip!

Thank you both. I will definitely check out your recommendations. Half the fun will be just looking of course, but it's always nice to find something within price range that is a reminder of fond memories
Leaving next Wednesday, so here's to last minute tips!

I found the jewelry on Ponte Vecchio expensive. If you don't mind spending MUCH less for sterling silver :

I bought a beautiful sterling ring with inlay of three colors of mother of pearl at Walter di Firenze Gold & Silver. I love it. It cost around 38 Euro and I get comments on it every time I wear it. It's on Borgo di Greci. If you're standing in front of Santa Croce with your back to the church, it's the left-most of the three streets off the Piazza.

I think on another of your posts you're also interested in leather. If you want an alternative to the very expensive leather purses, check out Capecci, also on Borgo de Greci. I bought a beautiful, unique purse there.
Have fun!

SusanP -- Those places sound great! I will add to my list Thanks!

Hi hipvirgochick,
I don't have any helpful jewel tips for you but I remember you from my trip report and wanted to say hi to you and wish you a pleasant journey.

Can you believe your departure date is here already??? I knew it would go fast.

I am exicted for you and look forward to YOUR trip report!
Best wishes, Tiff

Tiff - You're so sweet. Thank you for the good wishes I can't wait and I'm a little bit freaked out about all the things I need to cross off my list before I go. Time sure does fly! I'll be sure to post a trip report and may even check in to say hi while I'm there

Not about jewelry but---in the middle of the Ponte Vecchio you will see a circular fence with many locks attached. The legend is that if you write the initials of you and your love on a lock and lock it to the fence, throwing the key into the river, you will never part. A lovely legend that adds romance to the place, and all that you need is a small lock and permanent marker.

basinstoke1 - How interesting. I might never found out had you not told me. I'll keep that in mind

I just recently read on CNN or USA Today or IHT that the Florence authorities are removing all those lover's locks..they were causing a problem..but I can't remember what the problem was.

The story I got on the locks when I was there last year was that the city has to clear them off every few months because they are heavy and the bridge can't withstand the extra weight? I think someone was pulling my leg.
JenV

Jen, seriously, about two weeks ago there was an article about the Florence authorities cutting and removing the locks..they were causing a problem..but for the life of me I can't remember what the problem was. There was even photographs.

I assume that the locks must be regularly removed since the fence is small and the legend old. We will just have to add another on our next trip. meanwhile, we have a cherished photo and memory.

From what I've read, the "lovely legend" of the locks on ponte vecchio was apparenlty made up by the tourist industry, and as of recently, you will get fined 50 euros if caught putting on a lock. Tourists beware (and remember the addage about leaving nothing but your footprints...)
NN