forgive my ignorance please, but I THINK Firenze is known for leather and could it be, GOLD?? If so which is the most reasonable, authentic Italian gold store to buy from on the bridge? A nun told me to be aware of cheap imitations, a lot of fly by night pan handlers and pop up shoppes come and go. Can you please help? Thanks
Posted by
WPB, FL & Firenze
3112 posts
A friend bought gold last month at Gioielleria Vaggi on the Ponte Vecchio and was very pleased with her purchase. The shop had been recommended by a local as being one of the most honest. You can Google their website.
Posted by
Glen Allen, VA
88 posts
Yes, I also recommend Gioielleria Vaggi on the Ponte Vecchio, it is right on the corner, and I have been to Florence 6 times, and have shopped most of the shops on the Ponte Vecchio, and find that they have the best selection and price for what I wanted. I bought pieces that I was able to buy matching bracelet, necklace, and earrings etc. One piece each year, since if you get the better gold, it isn't cheap. I always figure if you are going to buy, get the best that you can. I have even picked up pieces here for friends in the states. I think that you will find them to be very kind and patient. Let us know how you make out and have a wonderful trip. I wasn't able to travel this summer, and have with drawal.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15591 posts
I went on a walking tour (offered by a youth hostel) with a licensed guide who was great. One of the things she said when we got close to the Ponte Vecchio is never to buy anything there. She said all the shops on the bridge were owned by one owner so there weren't really competitors and better prices could be found in the shops away from the bridge.
BTW Italian gold is much more expensive because it is 18K - most U.S. jewelry is only 14K but the Europeans tend to turn their noses up at 14K.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
Not all the shops are owned by one firm, but about a dozen of them are. Sometimes the staff will dash back and forth to get you items to look at.