Global Gifting at Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market
With the holiday season fast approaching, you could be forgiven for starting to get into a bit of a panic about finishing your gift list. Luckily, Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market offers something of a one-stop shop for all your trinketry and tchotchke needs – and not just for the holidays. You may even discover a treat for yourself at one of the many vendors.
Antiques and more await at Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market
A fixture of the Beijing shopping scene for more than 25 years, the market was renovated in 2012, adding in a number of new types of goods including jewelry. Today, it boasts over 500 vendors selling everything from Chinese and international antiques to tea sets, cloisonné, and diamonds. Each floor has a similarly-themed selection of vendors; the first features mostly jade and fine jewelry; the second traditional crafts and art pieces; and the third antiques, pottery, furniture, and carpets.
Traditional carved red lacquer
Many of the market’s vendors have been in the business for a decade or more and are experts in their chosen field. A number also speak good English and are more than used to dealing with international customers. For example, Mr. Cui, who runs an antique carpet shop on the third floor of the market, has featured in a number of English-language guides to Beijing since 2003. His carpets are sourced from Inner Mongolia, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Ningxia, among other northwestern regions, and come in a mind-boggling array of shapes, sizes, and colors.
Carpets of all shapes and sizes
Many of the pieces in the other antique stores are from the Qing dynasty although eagle-eyed antique experts may spot much older pieces, from jade to porcelain. You can shop with peace of mind, too, as the vast majority of pieces come with certification.
Cloisonné items make perfect gifts
If you’d prefer something less antique yet still traditionally Chinese, then Rong Sheng Tang (荣盛堂) on the second floor will oblige with a selection of stunning cloisonné items and gemstone trees. A broad price range makes it easy to source something to fit any budget, from a simple pair of earrings to a five-foot-tall vase. Alternatively, a striking red carved lacquer (漆雕 qīdiāo) piece or a clay teapot (紫砂壶 zǐshā hú) from the city of Yixing in Jiangsu from Pu Yun Ge (普韵阁) would both make great China souvenirs.
Sip tea while you shop
Speaking of tea, it is worth noting that whichever shop you choose to browse, the shop owner will inevitably whip up a pot of tea and possibly even some snacks to enjoy while you discuss the price. This style of shopping may not be that familiar to some but it makes for a relaxing experience.
Custom jewels by SimonStone
However, it’s not all about Chinese traditional style (although there is enough to occupy you for days); there are also a number of jewelers representing international brands or designers. On the second level of the market, SimonStone offers breathtaking custom-designed jewelry, each item tailored to the taste and budget of the buyer. The owner previously managed the Beijing office of a global diamond firm so he knows his stones; perhaps a good option for those looking to put a (unique) ring on it.
Golf clubs, balls, and more on the fourth floor
Finally, the fourth floor of the market is home to a number of golf shops stocking everything from second-hand golf balls to clubs that go up into the thousands of renminbi.
Pick up a sparkling surprise for a loved one
So whether you are a hobbyist golfer, looking for a sparkling gift for a loved one or simply want to find the perfect finishing touch for your home decor scheme, you can find it at Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market.
Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market
Daily 7am-7pm. 27 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
亮马国际珠宝古玩城：朝阳区亮马桥路27号
This post is paid for by Liangma International Jewel and Antique Market
Photos: Uni You
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