I remember my first trip inside this store. There were beautiful diamonds rings in the window and I…read morewas drawn to the sparkle like a moth to a flame and spent a good ten minutes admiring the craftsmanship behind the gorgeous stones and setting. I slipped in to the store, hoping not to draw attention to myself because let's be honest - I can't afford anything inside and was promptly greeted with warm hellos and smiles. This put me at ease. Browns aren't particularly modern - the setting isn't particularly sleek or sophisticated, it is quaint and modest. The attention is on the jewellery and the enormous precious stones that gleam out at you. Gold, silver, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds - I've seen them all here. The wares are truly phenomenal. Browns also do watch repairs and stock other pieces - not just rings. They just happen to be the thing that catches my eye.

If you value your jewellery don't go there - it may be old and a family business but the owner…read moretakes no responsibility for other family heirlooms as I found out to my cost when I lost a stone from a family heirloom only a few months after leaving this for downsize and checking the setting. The lack of reviews are for a good reason so I am taking the time to do something I wish someone else had posted before I went there.....

Simple watch battery purchase…read more Staff were attentive and kind, shop was clean. Great range of products. However the mark-up of a $3 battery to $15 was too much. I was told that this was the going rate for a 'branded' product and that I should check the local shoe repairer as it would be the same. They said that the other, cheaper battery alternatives would fail in a month and battery acid would ruin my watch. I purchased their battery but checked at the local shoe repairer on my way home - same battery $5. Damn. Check your prices before shopping here. We want to support local shopping - but keep it reasonable!

Beautiful little jewelry shop on High Street, Ashburton. John helped me find a suitable backing for…read moremy diamond earring. I was waiting only a few minutes and the staff was so lovely. Family run business by the sound of it.

Mario's has been in the business for 30 years. There is no doubt that these guys sell quality hand…read morecrafted jewellery at a fraction of the normal retail price. As gold and silver are constantly being marked up you never know if you are getting a good deal. Mario's sells the latest makes and models at great price and if you are buying for more than one occasion be prepared to work some negotiating skills. This is also a great place to go if you are looking to melt down pre-loved jewellery and design something unique from scratch.

The most amazing jewellery store I've been into in Melbourne (and I've been into plenty). Just…read morelike a gallery - full of exquisite and artistic pieces for the woman who likes to make a statement. Most recently for me was a big bubble necklace made of clear glass. Complete with staff who know their craft and don't make you feel awkward. Whether you're wanting to buy a special piece or to simply spend a lazy Saturday looking at beautiful things... Bini is the place for you (and conveniently situated near iconic Gertrude Street).

From the owner: Contemporary Design Jewellery handmade by International and Australian Artists/Makersread more

This is a great little shop full local, artisan jewelry. While it's overwhelmingly targeted for…read morewomen (earrings, rings, necklaces, etc.) there was also a modest selection of cufflinks and rings for men. Prices are more mid-range - expect rings to run $60+. There are a range of styles though I would describe much of it as slightly alternative/funky, definitely modern. There's a lot of silver and a lot of non-precious metals. Definitely worth a look if you're in the area!