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

Experience the timeless elegance of Ohrid pearls, handcrafted by the Filevi family since 1928. Discover the legacy of Lake Ohrid's unique gem.

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Discover the exquisite beauty of Ohrid pearls at Filevi, a family-run workshop crafting these unique gems since 1928. Using a secret technique passed down through generations, Filevi creates lustrous pearls from the scales of the local Plashica fish, a tradition that has made Ohrid pearls a symbol of North Macedonia.

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 Pearl Museum to learn about the history and making of Ohrid pearls.
  • Ask about the different types of Ohrid pearls and the unique qualities of each.
  • Consider purchasing a piece of Ohrid pearl jewelry as a unique and meaningful souvenir.
  • Be aware of imitations and purchase Ohrid pearls only from reputable shops like Filevi to ensure authenticity.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls is located at Цар Самоил 20 in Ohrid's old town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Ohrid City Square, walk along the main street towards the Upper Gate. Turn left onto Tsar Samoil Street. Filevi will be on your right-hand side. Walking from the square takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Ohrid's public buses operate frequently throughout the city. Take any bus that stops near the city center or the Old Town. From the nearest bus stop, follow the walking directions to Filevi on Tsar Samoil Street. A single bus fare costs around 30 MKD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Ohrid. Ask your driver to take you to Filevi on Tsar Samoil Street in the Old Town. A short taxi ride from most locations in Ohrid should cost between 100-200 MKD. Be sure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Filevi - Original Ohrid's pearls

Filevi - Original Ohrid's Pearls is more than just a jewelry store; it's a living testament to a unique tradition that has shaped the cultural identity of Ohrid. Since 1928, the Filevi family has been crafting exquisite pearls using a closely guarded secret technique, passed down through four generations. This tradition began when a Russian emigrant, Jovan Subanovikj, shared his pearl-making knowledge with the Filevi family, forever changing their destiny and the artistic landscape of Ohrid. Unlike traditional pearls found in oysters, Ohrid pearls are man-made, using the iridescent scales of the Plashica fish, endemic to Lake Ohrid. The process begins by carefully extracting the shiniest part of the shell, which is then meticulously processed to form a pearl bead. This bead is then coated with an emulsion derived from the scales of the Plashica fish, giving it a unique luster and depth. The exact recipe for this emulsion remains a closely guarded secret, known only to the Filevi and Talevi families in Ohrid. Visiting Filevi offers a glimpse into this fascinating craft. The workshop showcases the tools and techniques used to create these unique gems, as well as photographs of the Filevi family and the many dignitaries and celebrities who have adorned themselves with Ohrid pearls. Each piece of jewelry is handmade, reflecting the family's dedication to quality and tradition. Filevi offers a wide selection of pearl jewelry, from classic necklaces and bracelets to modern designs, ensuring there's a perfect piece for every taste and occasion. The Filevi family's commitment to preserving this unique craft has earned them numerous certificates and recognitions worldwide. In 2016, they opened the Museum of the Ohrid Pearl, further solidifying their legacy and sharing the story of Ohrid pearls with the world. A visit to Filevi is not just a shopping experience; it's an immersion into the history, culture, and artistry of Ohrid.

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