If you're in the mood to add a new pair of earrings or a statement ring to your collection, might I suggest you consider shopping vintage or pre-loved?
There's something irresistible about sourcing pre-loved jewellery. And if you're already dabbling in it, you’ll understand the allure of something sparkly rooted in history, craftsmanship, and a life lived long before it found its way into your collection.
For me, the obsession began with my grandmother. Every time I’d visit her, I became a magpie, instinctively drawn to her hands where yellow gold glistened and gemstones of every hue sparkled under the light. Each ring had a story. She would tell me where she was in the world when she found it, why it caught her eye, and who she was at that moment in time. They were keepsakes. A lesson in design history. A glimpse into past centuries.
And then, of course, there’s the price. Vintage jewellery is often a fraction of what you'd pay for a comparable modern piece. With the added charm of uniqueness and sustainability, it’s hard to resist.
Over time, sourcing vintage rings and earrings has become akin to the stock market for me: something I like to watch closely, ready to pounce when the right piece appears. I thought it only right to share my curated list of the best places to buy second-hand and vintage jewellery online and in Sydney. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into the collecting game, these are the places I keep bookmarked.
1. Leonard Joel
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Leonard Joel is one of Australia’s most respected auction houses. Their curated auctions regularly feature beautifully preserved pieces, from antique engagement rings to mid-century designer treasures. But their expertise doesn’t stop at jewellery. The team has a good eye for sourcing rare and unique finds across art and design. They're typically held in Melbourne or Sydney, and bidding online is seamless and accessible. I haven’t had the luck of securing a piece just yet, but that hasn’t stopped me from trying every time something special comes up.
2. 1st Dibs
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1st Dibs have an extremely large collection of jewellery from all backgrounds and all centuries. Their sellers are highly skilled in all areas of jewellery, from around the world. Here, you also have the opportunity to be flexible with the price, whether bidding for a piece or wanting to negotiate. Having shopped here personally, I can assure you it is a go-to trusted marketplace for me.
3. Greene & Greene
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On weekends, you’ll often find me wandering through Paddington, and more often than not, I end up stepping into Greene & Greene Antiques on Queen Street. It’s a haven for silverware and most impressively, jewellery. Their collection is among the most extensive I’ve come across in a Sydney antique store, with pieces spanning centuries and styles. From Victorian rings to bold Art Deco brooches, it’s a treasure chest for anyone who loves the charm of pre-loved jewellery.
4. Vestiare Collective
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Vestiaire Collective is one of the most trusted marketplaces when it comes to authenticated second-hand fashion, and that extends well beyond clothing. It’s a good destination if you’re on the hunt for pre-loved jewellery, especially more contemporary pieces. You’ll regularly find pieces from Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Bulgari listed at prices that are often well below retail. A quick tip: when searching, try to filter results by location and stick to Australian sellers where possible, you’ll avoid international duties and shipping costs.
5. Happy Hockers
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Don’t underestimate the treasure trove that is a pawn shop. Often overlooked, these spots can be home to some truly unexpected finds, particularly when it comes to jewellery. Happy Hockers is a great place to look, with several locations across Sydney. In my experience, the Potts Point store stands out for its well-curated selection of vintage and contemporary pieces. Whether you're hunting for a unique gold chain or just browsing for inspiration, it’s worth stopping by to try things on in person. The pricing is fair, the staff are helpful, and you never know what you will find.
