The jewel in Manuka's crown up for lease

Surely, one of the most well-known jewellers in Canberra must be Briolette, anchored in the Manuka Arcade for the past 20 years.

But a sparkling era is now drawing to a close with the impending retirement of owners Diana Thompson and Robert Hunt, and their 71-square metre ground floor unit is looking for new tenants.

Steve Burke of Burgess Rawson says Briolette’s reputation as a prestige jeweller made it a destination for Canberrans wanting to celebrate birthdays, engagements, anniversaries and other special occasions.

“It’s always sad when an icon disappears, but the hope is that it will be succeeded by another business that will contribute to the special buzz that Manuka still enjoys as a boutique shopping destination,” he says.

“Of course, it would be an ideal space for a new jeweller, someone with aspirations to create another prestige brand.”

The unit has access from Palmerston Lane and Franklin Street and looks onto the popular Manuka Green area, fringed by a host of vibrant cafes and restaurants.

Burke says the space is airconditioned with two large glass fronts, ideal for product display.

“We’re open to the type of business that would complement the area including other types of retail, a cafe or restaurant, business agency, bank or office,” he says.

The unit will be available from about October.

GRIFFITH (MANUKA SHOPS)

7/22-30 FRANKLIN STREET

For lease

Price guide: $84,000 per annum plus GST

Agent: Burgess Rawson Canberra, Steve Burke 0428 434 464