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The relaxed and unhurried pace of Bermuda is part of what draws so many visitors to explore its charms. But it's also renowned for its elegant, gentrified ambience and holidays to Bermuda offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy one of what some people find the most relaxing pastime of all: shopping! Bermuda is well-renowned for its high-end jewellers, and it's not just the big name designers. If you're looking for something unique, among the traditional gold, silver and gemstone designs you can also find one-off pieces made by local artisans, including rare silver and gold coins recovered from the wrecks of ships that have come to grief around the islands over past centuries. (These coins date back to the Spanish mints from the 1500-1700s.) Here are a few excellent local jewellery businesses I have introduced clients to on their holidays to Bermuda. Astwood Dickinson As the oldest established jeweller on the island, Astwood Dickinson has a solid reputation with both locals and visitors. Their exclusive watch collection is one of the best and most extensive I've seen, with international brands like Mont Blanc, Jaeger LeCoultre, Cartier, Patek Philippe, Gucci and Omega. But they also carry some of the more accessible brands like Fossil and DKNY – which, I'm reliably informed, are "hot right now!" Astwood Dickinson's jewellery collection is as impressive as their watches, with the world's finest brands making an appearance. As well as revered names like Baccarat, Tiffany & Co., Judith Ripka and Hearts on Fire, they're also stockists of the exquisite Original Bermuda Collection, designed by their own goldsmiths. Find it: Orbis building, 25 Front Street, Hamilton City (near the ferry terminal). Crisson Jewellers I love the laidback ambience of Crisson, and even when you're shopping for very expensive pieces, you don't feel any of the pressure some high-end retailers often invoke. Established since 1922, Crisson is renowned for its own collection of beautiful pieces - including those crafted from 'Treasure Coins' as mentioned above. As well as their house collection, you'll find a large range of handpicked pieces by renowned international jewellers like Roberto Coin, Picchiotti, Marco Bicego, John Hardy, Pandora, Kabana and David Yurman. I've discovered they also carry the largest collection of diamonds of any jeweller on the island, including the exceptional cuts and clarity of stones from Cento and Canadia. If you're looking to update or trade up to a Tag Heuer, Rolex, Ebel, Movado or Tudo watch, Crisson is the place to do it. Find it: Crisson has four outlets, with smaller concessions in some hotels. 55 Front Street, Hamilton (flagship store) 77 Front Street, Hamilton 16 Queen St, Hamilton Clocktower Mall, Royal Navy Dockyard Alexandra Mosher Studio Jewellery This award-winning jeweller is one of my favourite discoveries and she's often found working in her studio/shop, crafting her absolutely beautiful pieces and chatting to customers. Using sterling silver and coral pink sand she collects from the island's own beaches, every piece is individual – inspired by the natural beauty of her surroundings. Her lovely collection includes innovative shapes, forms and mediums, crafted into the most delightful pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings. Find it: Washington Mall West, Lower Level, 7 Reid St, Hamilton. I think all holidays to Bermuda should include the opportunity to sample the luxury and craftsmanship of the island's local and international jewellers, and these ones above are three of my top recommendations. John Dixon is an experienced world traveller and the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For years, he has been providing luxury holidays to Bermuda, Croatia, Sicily and many other destinations around the globe. John tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of his properties, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.
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