Background

Filevi - Original Ohrid's Pearls: A Legacy of Lake Ohrid

Discover the allure of Filevi - Original Ohrid's Pearls, where a century-old family tradition creates exquisite jewelry from the depths of Lake Ohrid.

4.3

Filevi is a jewelry store in Ohrid, North Macedonia, renowned for crafting authentic Ohrid pearls using a secret technique passed down through generations since 1928. These pearls are not found in oysters but are handmade, making them a unique symbol of Ohrid's cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

  • Monday 9 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-9 pm
  • Friday 9 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-9 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Filevi family's Pearl Museum to learn about the history and process of making Ohrid pearls.
  • Purchase pearls directly from Filevi or Talevi family stores to ensure authenticity.
  • Be aware that the price of Ohrid pearls can vary depending on size, quality, and design.
  • Consider visiting during the off-season for a more relaxed shopping experience and personalized attention.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Filevi - Original Ohrid's Pearls is located on Car Samoil street in the heart of Ohrid's old town. From the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, walk northwest along Car Samoil street. The shop will be on your left, a short walk from the theater. The walk is generally easy, though Car Samoil street has a moderate incline.

  • Public Transport

    From the Ohrid bus station, take a local bus towards the city center. Get off at the stop closest to the harbor or the main square. From there, walk along Car Samoil street towards the Ancient Theatre. Filevi will be on your left. A single bus fare costs approximately 30 MKD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Ohrid. A taxi from the bus station to Filevi in the city center will cost approximately 200 MKD. Ensure the driver uses a taximeter or negotiate the fare beforehand. From anywhere in the central area of Ohrid, a taxi ride to Filevi should be very short and inexpensive.

Unlock the Best of Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

Filevi - Original Ohrid's Pearls is more than just a jewelry store; it's a guardian of Ohrid's rich cultural heritage. Located on Цар Самоил 20 in Ohrid, North Macedonia, Filevi has been crafting exquisite Ohrid pearls since 1928, using a secret technique passed down through four generations. These pearls are not naturally formed within oysters. Instead, the shiniest part of a shell is taken and processed to create a pearl bead. This base is then coated with an emulsion derived from the scales of the Ohrid bleak fish, a species endemic to Lake Ohrid. The secret of the pearl-making process was brought to Ohrid by a Russian emigrant, Jovan Subanovikj, who shared it with Nikola Filev. Today, only the Filevi and Talevi families know the intricate details of this craft. The process involves applying multiple layers of the emulsion, with each layer requiring 45 minutes to dry. The result is a lustrous pearl admired for its unique craftsmanship and cultural significance. Filevi offers a wide selection of Ohrid pearl jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Each piece is handmade, reflecting an individual approach to concept and design. The store has gained international recognition, with portraits of European royalty, such as Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana, adorning the walls, showcasing their patronage of Ohrid pearls. Visiting Filevi is an opportunity to witness a living tradition and acquire a unique souvenir that embodies the beauty and history of Ohrid.

Popular Experiences near Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

Popular Hotels near Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

Select Currency