ahiddenbird

I was thinking of getting my aunt a small piece of Murano glass while I'm in Venice; I was thinking of a pendant, a pair of earrings or maybe a ring. It needs to be quite small and fairly difficult to break as I will be traveling with only a carry-on sized pack.

Can anyone tell me what kind of price range I'll be looking at for Murano jewelry? I don't need it to be especially intricate or fancy; something simple would be preferable. But I would like it to be authentic Murano glass is possible, rather than the Chinese stuff. Is it possible to get anything real for say, under 50 euros? Or am I dreaming?

On that note; how will I be able to tell the difference between the authentic Murano glass and the 'fake' stuff? What should I look for?

Thanks

Jean

You want to look for this sign in the shop window and usually also as a sticker on the glass itself:

http://muranoplace.com/blog/wp-conte...lass-label.png

If the piece doesn't have the trademark, it may not be authentic Murano glass. Most souvenir stalls carry the cheap, Chinese stuff.

You can spend whatever you want, but authentic pieces are more expensive than the Chinese crap. Shops where I've bought things have wrapped the pieces (even a fragile bell) very well for carrying in luggage.

Pepper_von_snoot

The two best stores for Murano glass jewellery in Venice are Pauly an Venini.

Both shops sell expensive merchandise but the quality and workmanship are outstanding.

You will find shops selling glass jewellery all over Venice.

You will find Murano glass in all price ranges in Venice.

If you have taste and a good eye, you will be able to discern the authentic from the junk.

Thin

tuscanlifeedit

50 euro is more than enough for a piece of authentic jewelery. I paid that much for a beautiful dish at Venini; it was small but very intricate. 20 euro ought to buy you a very nice pendant.

ahiddenbird

Tuscan: I was just hoping to get something simple and pretty, and it sounds like, with a little work, I'll be able to do so.

Pepper: thanks for the shop recommendations!

And Jean: I will look for the stickers! I figured there would be something along those lines