The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

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In the heart of Old Cairo, more specifically in the heart of El Hussein, lies one of the oldest and most famous markets in Egypt and the world: Khan Al Khalili. Nestled among the narrow alleys and stone-paved passageways, you’ll find a world of silver, drenched in the beauty of Old Cairo’s craftsmanship and the magic of timeless detail.

Silver in Khan Al Khalili is not just about an accessory; it is a story told through the necklace chains, pendants, and rings. Behind each piece is delicate handwork, a skill that is passed down from generation to generation.

Silver Items Found in Khan Al Khalili

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In Khan Al Khalili, you’ll find everything that could be made of silver: rings, necklace, chains, bracelets, earrings, lighters, small ingots, and even gifts engraved with names or special dates. There are also miniature replicas of Egyptian landmarks and pieces with engravings inspired by Islamic and Coptic art. Every piece found at Khan Al Khalili can make a very special gift.

How to Know If the Purchased Silver Item Is Real Silver

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Always look at the purity percentage. You’ll often find a small stamp reading “925,” meaning the silver is 92.5% real. Real silver is relatively heavy, and its colour has a softer shine than the artificial lustre of fake alternatives. Ask the store owner about the source of the silver and request a stamped invoice, especially for big purchases.

Get a Glimpse of the Price Range

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Silver prices fluctuate depending on the market, the exchange rate of the US dollar to the EGP, and the cost of raw silver. However, in general, prices in Khan El Khalili typically start from EGP 150.

Here is a breakdown: a simple men’s or women’s ring ranges from EGP 150 to 400, a medium-sized necklace chain or bracelet ranges from EGP 300 to 700. The price of engraved items depends on their weight and the design of the engravings.

The general rule of thumb is that the price is determined by the weight, purity, and design. It’s also possible to haggle with the seller, but try to know the average prices before you go.

Best Silver Shops in Khan El Khalili

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Mahmoud Fadda is one of the oldest shops there, and it offers a diverse selection of handmade silver. Al-Naggar specialises in fine engravings and writing on silver. Fadda Al-Maghribi provides modern and contemporary designs. Many small workshops customise handcrafts, and you can have your item ready the same day.

Pro Tips Before Going

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To get the most out of your visit to Khan Al Khalili, consider going early in the morning before rush hour. Wear comfortable clothing, be prepared to walk a lot, and don’t make a purchase at the first store you check; instead, look around and compare the prices. If you plan to buy in bulk, make a per-gram price deal with the seller.

Ultimately, a visit to Khan El-Khalili isn’t just a shopping experience; it’s a journey back in time, surrounded by history and the aromas of incense, copper, and fabrics. The pieces you get there, you’ll keep for a lifetime because it’s not just silver; it’s a piece of Egypt.