Bangkok’s Chinatown is on Yaowarat Road and is full of gold shops. Prices tend to rise in February as Chinese New Year approaches. Dozens of gold shops are located within its maze of alleyways. Along with gold and silver, Thailand is famed for its precious stones, many of which originate in the kingdom.

For silverware, it’s best to head to the MBK Centre or Suan Lum Night Bazaar. Some of  Thailand’s hilltribe make beautiful, and unique, creations with silver and by buying these at the right places, you also help to put something back into their communities. If you’re in Chiang Mai, Shiraz Jewellery has a personal touch and years of experience to help you find the perfect gem. Also in Chiang Mai is Nova, which specialises in custom-made stainless steel, white, yellow and rose gold, while the city’s Luna Tree Jewellery sells necklaces, bracelets and bangles produced by the ethnic groups that live nearby.

If you still can’t find what you like, try World Thai Gems Gallery, which markets itself as the ‘biggest gems store in the world’ and has branches Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya.