Where to buy antique jewellery in Sydney: a collector’s guide

If you’ve been hunting for antique jewellery in Sydney, you might have noticed something: it’s getting harder to find.

Australia’s biggest city once boasted bustling antique centres, dozens of dedicated shops and a thriving community of dealers. But those centres are long gone, well-known shops have closed and the number of true specialists is dwindling. 

In an era of mass-produced jewellery, finding genuine, handcrafted antique pieces – ones that are high quality, fairly priced and honestly described – takes a little more effort.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate Sydney’s antique jewellery scene. If you’re looking for a Georgian garnet rivière, a Victorian gold locket or an Art Deco engagement ring, here’s where to begin your search.

1. Specialist antique jewellery dealers in Sydney

With fewer antique jewellery shops to choose from, it’s more important than ever to find sellers you can trust to guarantee authenticity and quality, and to give you peace of mind. The best place to start is with specialist stores. 

(Please note that this list isn’t exhaustive – but it covers the small businesses where we’ve spent the most time.)

Karen Deakin Antiques

Karen has been one of Sydney’s most respected antique jewellery dealers for decades, known for her impeccable taste and discerning eye. She has built a loyal following of collectors who trust her commitment to ensuring her jewels are in immaculate condition. Her stock can be viewed by appointment. Karen is also our mentor – and her website is a must-visit.

Anne Schofield Antiques

Anne, the doyenne of Australia’s antique jewellery dealers, was a trailblazer, opening her boutique in Queen Street, Woollahra, in 1970. Her collection is particularly strong in 19th-century jewellery and she is highly regarded for her expertise in historic jewels. 

Greene & Greene

Just a few doors down on Queen Street, Michael and Victoria Greene offer a large selection of antique and vintage jewellery in a warm and welcoming shop full of lovely old things, including furniture, porcelain and sterling silver. 

Antiques-Art-Design

Christopher Becker is a former fashion designer and stylist who has a particular passion for Modernist Scandinavian silver jewellery. His bijou boutique in Macleay Street, Potts Point, is filled to the brim with fabulousness.

Antique Decorative Art

Across Macleay Street you’ll find Ian Hadlow holding court in his small gallery of gorgeous things, which include furniture and fine art. He doesn’t always have jewellery on display … but we’re sneaking him on to the list because we love to visit. 

Life is short. Diamonds (That’s us!)

We’re a rare new entrant to Sydney’s antique jewellery scene. We aim to unite people with jewels that bring them joy. Alongside our main focus on antique and vintage jewellery, we offer one-of-a-kind artwork and other beautiful objects. Our stock can be viewed in person at a secure location in central Sydney. 

And we understand that buying online can feel daunting, so we offer easy returns and payment plans – because we want you to wear something you truly adore. You can browse our collection here or follow us on Instagram for daily updates.

2. Antique fairs – the best way to see a big range in one place

Annual fairs offer antique lovers the chance to see a wide selection of pieces, compare styles and prices, and meet dealers from across Australia.

The AAADA Antiques and Art Fair

Staged annually by the Australian Antique & Art Dealers Association, this is one of the most prestigious antique events in the country. It brings together respected dealers offering museum-quality jewellery, fine art, decorative arts and collectables. If you’re looking for a serious investment piece – or just want to immerse yourself in antique beauty – it’s well worth a visit.

The Sydney Fair

This showcase – the largest event of its type – draws more than 50 antique and vintage dealers from across Australia, with a focus on vintage and luxury fashion, furniture, decorative arts and, yes, jewellery. You’ll see vintage fashion aficionados dressed to the nines – try to time your visit to catch one of their catwalk shows.

The Wentworth Park Antiques and Collectables Fair

Held six times a year at Wentworth Park in Ultimo, “Wenty” brings dealers from near and far. This is a place where you can unearth treasures for tuppence. Sometimes it feels like a giant garage sale – you never know what’s going to turn up. 

3. Vintage warehouses

Sadly, there are few jewellery dealers among the stallholders who rent space in these vintage superstores. But if you like old things you’ll probably enjoy stopping by. Best of all, they’re open daily.

That Vintage Emporium

TVE celebrates creativity and craftsmanship in a 2,000-square-metre space in Botany Road, Alexandria. Their Instagram bio describes their range: “Industrial Retro Farmhouse Collectables Furniture Lighting Chandeliers Midcentury Rustic Architectural Deco Prop Hire.” The team at the front desk are super friendly, too.

Mitchell Road Antique & Design Centre

Just around the corner in Bourke Road is the venerable Mitchell Road (named for the venue it outgrew). Warning: if you don’t like clutter, this isn’t the place for you. Though it’s massive it’s crammed with pre-loved pieces of history, large and small. 

The Merchants Warehouse

This antique and design centre on the corner of Booth and Guihen streets in Annandale has a big range of homewares, furniture, decorative items and vintage clothing. The focus is on upcycling to create fabulous interiors – and there’s a garden centre in the front courtyard.

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Seeking out antique jewellery isn’t just about craving something sparkly, it’s about preserving history while wearing jewels that are utterly unique and surprisingly affordable – this is adornment with soul. Whether you’re adding to a collection, on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind engagement ring or looking for an heirloom-worthy piece, knowing where to shop makes all the difference.

If you’d like help finding something special, please get in touch. We’d love to help you track down a jewel you’ll treasure for years to come.