Bernabe Badillo (known affectionately as Bell) is one of the minority of people on Ambergris Caye who can boast of being a native San Pedrano: born, raised, schooled and employed on the island.  In fact, his love for his native home inspired him from an early age to seek a trade that would enable him to stay in San Pedro to raise a family of his own. 

Fifteen years ago, Bell realised that the jewellery trade is one such industry that would provide an income in San Pedro, and he set about learning the intricacies of the profession, travelling to Mexico to seek expertise in Tasco (for silver) and Iguala (for gold).  When he returned, he developed his knowledge on the local specialities of black coral, black opal and jade.

Bell has excelled in his profession, and for many years even without specified premises, he has been considered ‘the jeweller’ in San Pedro.  In recent years, Bell had the ambition to open his own jewellers shop, and so he juggled his commitments as a tour guide, with his passion as the island’s jeweller, and saved up enough money to open new premises on Barrier Reef Drive (better known as Front Street). 

Bell keeps a record book of photos and comments from past customers who say delightful things about his work, and Bell says that it is the pleasure of giving customer satisfaction which makes him so passionate about his trade. 

B&B Jewellers offers repair services on all jewellery (including watches), custom-designed jewellery, stone carving and a wide selection of ready-made jewellery from display counters in the shop.

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