There are a couple of good jewelry shops in JD. One is across the street from Capella and the other one is in the Chocolate Plaza on the beach road. Both of these shops have some good quality and also some cheaper (fake). The price will tell the difference. You do not need to be an expert in jewelry to be able to see the difference. I certainly am not an expert but I made out alright shopping in JD for rings. Harrison's is the best place without a doubt for "real" stones, quality settings,and fine metals. They will be the most expensive. I think there is a Harrison's at Capella. I have never seen the vendors on the beach with "real" jewelry. It is all junk tourist stuff.
Dre, Are you saying that people can buy amber straight from the family who owns the amber mines? Where is El Valle?