10 of the Most Fabulous Estate Jewelry Stores Worldwide
Seasoned stylist Amy Roseveare gives her take on the top vintage jewelry stores that are a must-go throughout the world.
What’s my profession? It’s dressing amazing personal clients (24+ years now), searching near and far for the best boutiques worldwide for my site, TheCuratedShopper.com, and sourcing and selling truly unique estate jewelry to clients worldwide on Instagram.
Since I’ve been a magpie since my early childhood, had my own hand-crafted jewelry line in college, and was one of the original jewelry bloggers, it’s no surprise that I’m a complete gemophile. I find so many incredible antique and estate jewelry stores on my travels, and I’m thrilled to share a few of my faves with you, in alphabetical order.
1. Bell and Bird (Austin, TX)
This treasure of a store is housed in a historic 1924 home, which has been updated with a deep blue exterior with black trim with a lovely, manicured garden out front. You know you’re in for something special as soon as you see it!
Rhianna and Cyrus Shennum are avid travelers, and they manage to find such unusual, special pieces. They specialize in jewelry from the 18th and 19th centuries, but you may also spy Roman, Art Deco, or Edwardian pieces as well. Everything is meticulously displayed and grouped with various decorative objects and antique artwork. They also make custom, hand-fabricated pieces, all produced in their in-house studio. Visit Bell & Bird >>
2. FD Gallery (New York, NY)
On my last visit to New York City, I visited this outstanding jewelry gallery. (Thank you to Pilar for the wonderful service!) You’ll find it in a charming brownstone on the Upper East Side. All the jewelry is arranged by type in various vitrines around the shop. I admired enticing collections of Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels from all eras, along with pieces from Belperron and Boivin, to name a couple. Though they specialize in 20th-century jewelry, you’ll also find select pieces from antique and new designers. Visit FD Galery >>
3. Grays Antique Market (London, England)
This is definitely more than an antique jewelry store. This entire building has upwards of 200 estate dealers, from jewelry to objects and art! You can honestly spend an entire day here. Among my favorite dealers are John Joseph Antique Jewellery, Rowan and Rowan, Peter Szuhay, and The Old Cut. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you’re searching for an engagement ring, a Georgian pair of earrings, or a Victorian necklace, you’re sure to find many options here. It’s a must-see in London! Visit Grays Antique Market >>
4. Isadoras (Seattle, WA)
I never expected to find such an incredible jewelry store right next to the Seattle hotspot, Pike’s Market…but there it is! Occupying a key corner space, this family-run store specializes in 19th and 20th-century jewelry, and they have been in business for over 40 years. Laura and Elizabeth have extremely discerning eyes, and I’m always impressed by how they select the best of the best from many different genres.
On numerous visits to this establishment, I’ve coveted everything from galactic retro earrings to a micro-mosaic ring. The staff is lovely, encouraging you to try items on instead of just gazing through the glass. The best way to know if a piece is perfect for you is to try it on, right?! Visit Isadoras >>
5. Joseph Bonnar (Edinburgh, Scotland)
It is difficult to find the words to adequately describe the dapper, witty Joseph Bonnar and his exceptional jewelry store stocked with antique and period jewelry. On my most recent visit, I ogled a gold and diamond pendant featuring a coin from Syracuse dating back to 218 BC, three Victorian lava cameo bracelets, a selection of Georgian fobs, and perhaps the most extensive collection of antique Scottish jewelry I’ve ever seen. It’s truly a museum where you can try on and purchase. Jo is adamant about knowing the provenance of each and every item. This is why his clientele includes royalty, movie stars, and other discerning collectors. Visit Joseph Bonnar >>
6. Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry (San Francisco, CA)
As you enter this store, with the large Murano glass chandelier and the sinuous gem-filled cases, you’ll see why Lang has been a San Francisco landmark since it opened its doors in 1969. In fact, it received the honor of being on the Legacy Business Registry in 2019. It also has the largest collection of vintage and estate jewelry in the whole country. Although they concentrate on pieces from 1850-1950, each one meticulously restored, you’ll find jewelry from all eras. As an added bonus, spend some time on their sister site, Antique Jewelry University, where your every jewelry question can be answered. Visit Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry >>
7. Macklowe Gallery (New York, NY)
Park Avenue is home to the spacious (over 6000 square feet!) and inviting Macklowe Gallery. On my visit, I was warmly greeted by Ben Macklowe himself, and he gave me a wonderful tour of his store. He is a true authority in the industry, and he has the credentials to prove it. Be it Tiffany lamps or Art Nouveau furniture, this is your spot! I was coveting a large Van Cleef & Arpels malachite pendant, as well as more than one pair of Seaman Schepps earrings. Various cases drew me in with everything from Retro to Victorian pieces. This feels like a wonderful museum where you can actually purchase the items. Visit Macklowe Gallery >>
8. Metier (San Francisco, CA)
The new location in Hayes Valley of Metier, founded in 1991, is fabulous — it’s larger yet supremely intimate. It is home to one of the most amazing collections of jewelry around! With a feature wall painted by Caroline Lizarraga as a backdrop, you’ll find cases filled with both new and estate jewelry. The ever-changing selection of antique jewelry is beyond measure, as owners Sheri Evans and Trina Papini have exquisite taste and finely honed skills at sourcing the most unique items. I have to say that I rarely leave empty-handed! Visit Metier >>
9. Pennisi (Milan, Italy)
In Milan last fall, I discovered this amazing family-run boutique in business since 1971. I was heading to a nearby lunch, and I spied a Victorian coral laughing Buddha ring that was simply calling to me. (Of course, I went home with it!) I was fortunate to meet most of the family during my visit, and they could not have been more gracious. They carry a wide range of eras — from the 18th century to the 1950s — and a strong Art Deco collection. They also carry select specialty items, including evening bags and snuff boxes. There were SO many items I wanted to bring home with me! Visit Pennisi >>
10. Platt (Los Angeles, CA)
Siblings Larry and Natasha are the masterminds behind this wonderful Los Angeles estate jewelry boutique. They have jewelry in their blood, and it shows in the carefully curated selections they have on offer. Not only do they sell antique and vintage pieces, but they also do custom projects, restoration, and repairs.
Oh, and a cool side note: Larry’s wife, Robyn, has a very chic vintage clothing wing attached to the store. What’s not to love? Visit Platt >>
Wrapping Up
Which one strikes your fancy the most? I hope that you can visit some of these wonderful shops, either in person or online. They are really worth it! On my site, TheCuratedShopper.com, you’ll find even more fantastic boutiques for jewelry and clothing worldwide. Sign up right here.
Love shopping for estate jewelry online as much as you do in person? Find unique pieces I’ve hand-picked myself at The Curated Jewelry Box.
See you there!
~ Amy Roseveare
