Pasar Kebun Sayur: Balikpapan, East Kalimantan

Kebun Sayur market in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, is famous for its gemstones and semi-precious stones, with buyers both foreign and local regularly visiting the market in search of jewelry and other handcrafted wares. Most famous among the market’s offerings are gemstones, such as agate, amethyst, opal, topaz and turquoise.

The majority of the semi-precious stones come from Kalimantan, although some of the jewelry creations combine local gemstones with semi-precious stones from Abudabi, Bangkok, Dubai, India and Tanzania.

Dayak people combine all kinds of colors in designing necklaces, bracelets, brooches and other kinds of jewelry making their creations so classic and elegant.

The market, which opens daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., also features rattan mats called lampit, and various home decorations made from Kalimantan wood.

Sasirangan batik, silk batik and Kalimantan “Saho” are available at stores such as Kumalasari Shop, often at prices far lower than available at area retail centers. Sasirangan and “Saho” batik prices start at Rp 75,000, while the most luxurious variety of silk batik sells for Rp 500,000.

Precious stones, such as zircon, crystal and white diamond valued at hundreds of thousands of rupiah, can be found in shops such as Permata Dua Saudara.