The French Jewel Box

The French Jewel Box is nestled away in a little pocket of The Block Arcade. The shop itself is lined with pink flocked wallpaper and fitted out with cute/quirky furniture.

I have been wanting to buy a ring from here since I was a young girl walking by the store, and they did not disappoint!

Not only is the quality and range of jewellery exceptional, but the whole experience from start to finish was just wonderful.

Nina and Sue were totally happy to discuss ring styles, history and manufacture, and were very patient with us and our 101 questions.

Buying an engagement ring is a rather daunting task but throughout the whole process Nina was a total star and helped at every step of the way. We were kept in the loop the whole time and absolutely love her work.

We are smitten with the ring and will be coming back for years to come. Thank you, ladies!

Xx

Had the most lovely experience with the team here in recent months as we commissioned a custom made anniversary ring. After searching high and low for the ring I envisioned, I came across a similar version here and the team went over and above to make my vision come to life. Nina and Louise were so patient and generous with their time and expertise in supporting me through the stone selection and design process. I was a complete novice to the process and they were so knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive throughout. They graciously guided me through the journey and were incredibly supportive of my ideas. In the end, the final product took my breath away and continues to do so. I get so many comments about the ring. It exceed my expectations and was executed to perfection with incredible craftsmanship. I look back so fondly at special journey I had with the team at the French Jewel Box. It made purchasing this special gift such a happy, memorable time. I couldn’t be happier, and would highly recommend their services.

An absolute treasure trove of wonderment – The windows showcase an incredible range of rare vintage and antique Jewellery – I felt like a child drooling over piles of gleaming confectionary!

My mother ended up purchasing a a striking piece, and the service was lovely. One day I'll purchase a piece of my own from here :-) A very special place.

Every time I walk into the French Jewel box I receive such a warm welcome. Years ago they saved a ring for me which had been very poorly engraved elsewhere, and it now receives regular compliments. They were so excited and helpful when my mum arranged to purchase a beautiful 1930's ruby ring for me over the phone, as she is not a Melbourne local, they had it all beautifully wrapped up for me to collect which was a wonderful surprise.
Now, even having moved away from Melbourne myself, I knew there wouldn't be anywhere else I would shop for my fiance's and my engagement rings. Erroneously we did first try in Sydney as it was closer, but nothing compared to the warm welcome, service, and selection we received here. I called Nina a month ago to confirm they would have some things for us to look at when we could make the days drive down, and she was so excited and encouraged us to come down when we could to have a play and see what we could find. Wonderfully offering that if we didn't see "it" we could even look into having something made.
Last week Louise welcomed us both to take a seat as she brought out at least a dozen rings we liked the look of from the windows and let us alternate between them all. She was also very understanding of our budget, but still let us try on things beyond our range for the pure enjoyment. We did not at any stage feel pressured or rushed, even when I suggested we think about the two we liked over a hot chocolate and come back. We walked out and returned in 5 minutes, there really wasn't anything to think about, we had found them, and for less than our budget.
Lachlan offered us bubbles as we signed and paid, my fiance got to wear hers straight away and I am excited to collect mine soon once it is resized.
Thank you to all of you for being so welcoming and genuine in your service, it was a truly wonderful and exciting experience for us both. We wish you all the best and look forward to visiting your new store when you make the move!

xx 👭

An incredible experience!
My partner and I spent a day engagement ring shopping and The French Jewel Box was our main destination for gorgeous vintage jewellery.
The team created an intimate and personal experience, for what was a truly intimate and personal moment in our lives.
Nina enthusiastically offered her knowledge and passion when supporting us in finding the perfect ring. It never felt like Nina was trying to close a sale, as she truly wanted us enjoy the moment.
My partner and I are not conventional, and never had a proposal moment per se - but when we found the ring it felt just as special.
The team celebrated in our joy, tears were shared and sparkling was popped.
We are incredibly thankful for the team creating an amazing experience we will treasure forever.
P.s. my Edwardian diamond daisy ring gets admired every day

Formerly from Sydney, I was recommended to this establishment by a trusted friend; amongst other queries, I wished to have a ring re-sized. There was a misunderstanding regarding the cost, which I admit disappointed me, and which I brought to the attention of the owner. Immediately, and without provocation by me, their representative apologised, and instead of refunding the difference, insisted on refunding the full amount.
Apart from the display of exquisite items, and aside from this incident, the proprietors and their representative were most welcoming. More importantly, their gesture of goodwill is sufficient to recommend them.

Felt really comfortable here. Much nicer than the places with a bouncer at the door.
Nina was welcoming, honest and helpful. Helped us find a ring that we loved and didn't judge on budget. The whole experience was really lovely.

Thanks so much for your time and great vibes!

Gorgeous and unique collection. The staff are down to earth and know their stuff. Highly recommend.

Beautiful store! Very helpful staff, owner in particular is lovely. Wide variety of stock, all very well made. I couldn’t recommend this place more to anyone looking for jewellery. It has a great atmosphere and is one of the highlights of the Block Arcade!

The French Jewel Box is one of the most exquisite shops in Melbourne. Not only is the quality and selection of the antique jewellery exceptional, but the service is outstanding. The staff really know what they are talking about and are approachable and down to earth.

The majority of the jewelry here is VERY special (and, of course, antique). The shop owner was very friendly too. It is definitely worth stopping by if you’re interested in antique jewelry. Not to mention the wonderful location in the beautiful Block Arcade.

I have had jewellery restored, designed and purchased both new and antique pieces from them over the years. They have expert knowledge, deal very honestly and give great service.

Could not help me enough with my 2 broken necklaces and broken earrrings. I should have gone to this place first as all the other jewellers did not want to know. Highly recommended.

Staff have always worked at getting the right piece for our family occasion Nothing is too much trouble fantastic service The quality of the items is superb

Beware, the owner of this store is absolutely horrible. I am an antique dealer myself, and was enquiring about antique earrings for my wedding. She basically forced me out of the shop, i'm sure based on my appearance and assumption i couldn't afford anything, as i am tattooed and of a different generation. Sadly she does not know how much i am actually worth and that i could afford everything in her shop (albeit she is a ripoff). I am going to let everyone I know not to go in here.