While the fashion world’s always on the cusp of the next big thing, buzzing with relentless cycles and novel offerings, there’s a more intriguing fascination bubbling up. It’s a deep dive into the archives, and a love affair with all things shiny that refuse to play by fleeting rules. We’re talking about vintage fashion jewellery—those exquisite offerings that totally thwart the notion of disposability, serving up a unique mélange of artistry, individuality, and sustainable luxury.
Anything but outmoded, these pieces boast a special charm and an attention to detail that often leaves modern mass production in the dust. Each one’s a miniature time capsule, packed with stories from past lives and the personal narratives of those who wore them. But what’s the real pull behind these storied adornments? Maybe it’s the thrill of the hunt—the sheer joy of unearthing a one-of-a-kind gem at a bustling flea market, or the satisfaction of knowing you own something truly unique that won’t be spotted on every arm. Or perhaps it’s the conscious choice to invest in quality and longevity, a delightful rebellion against the endless cycle of buy, discard, repeat. Whatever the reason, the allure of vintage jewellery is undeniably strong, offering a genuine antidote to the sartorial frenzy and a direct path to crafting a truly personal style.
Below, Vogue Singapore speaks to three passionate collectors—Angie Chen, Nathania Tay, and Jean—who share their own distinctive journey into this eclectic world. From training their eye to spot stellar pieces and unearthing hidden gems to styling these cherished treasures for today, they chronicle their insights, their absolute favourite finds, and invaluable advice for anyone looking to embark on their own collecting adventure.
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Jean
Can you share a little about your vintage fashion jewellery collecting journey? How did you start getting interested in it?
I used to buy cheap jewellery from fast fashion brands until I realised they often discoloured quickly. That was a little heartbreaking—not just because of the money spent, but also because I couldn’t wear a piece I really liked once it tarnished.
I started asking my mum for advice on jewellery that wouldn’t discolour easily, and that’s how I learned about different types of gold plating, stainless steel, and sterling silver. Since I’m passionate about vintage clothing and also sell it, my interest in vintage jewellery naturally blossomed. I began to love how these pieces have aged, their unique designs, and the fact that they had a whole life before me—now I get to wear them for the rest of mine.
What do you look for when choosing pieces for your collection? And how do you determine the quality of a piece?
I always check for purity stamps and maker’s marks to identify what metal the piece is made from and who made it. These are usually on the back or inside of the jewellery. For example, 925 means sterling silver, 18K means gold, and there are special symbols from famous makers like Tiffany & Co.
For quality, I focus on how it’s made and how it feels in your hand. Are the stones glued or held with metal prongs? Does it feel flimsy, malleable, or sturdy? Authentic vintage jewellery, even costume pieces, often have a satisfying weight because older items were made with substantial metal bases or dense plastics like Bakelite.
It’s also common for vintage jewellery to have some tarnish—don’t let that scare you! It’s actually a good sign of age and history. A gentle rub with a metal polishing cloth can bring back its shine and help it last longer.
Tell us about your favourite piece from your collection.
I don’t wear it often, but my favourite is probably my classic Chanel mini turn-lock necklace. It’s from 1996, back when the brand used 24K gold plating, so it has this warm, lustrous finish that catches the light beautifully. Its mini size adds a subtle elegance to any outfit.
What are some of your go-to brands/places to shop for vintage fashion jewellery pieces?
I love supporting small local businesses whenever I can. Takara House and La Vie are two I recently discovered—they offer unique pieces at really affordable prices. Also, if you ever wander around the second floor of People’s Park Complex, there’s this unnamed jewellery shop tucked among the fabric stores that’s totally if you know, you know. They’ve got a huge selection of vintage pendants, perfect for necklaces or charm bracelets.
Do you have any advice for those beginning to curate their vintage pieces?
Curated Instagram shops are great for inspiration, though their prices can be a bit intimidating. Don’t let that stop you! You can discover jewellery designers there and then hunt for their pieces on eBay, Carousell, or even Cash Converters to find better deals. It’s also a great way to learn more about the maker and market value, which just makes you appreciate a piece more beyond its look.
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Angie Chen
Can you share a little about your vintage fashion jewellery collecting journey? How did you start getting interested in it?
It began when I was studying in London more than a decade ago. I’ve always had a keen interest in fashion history, and jewellery felt like a great way to start a collection—it was easy to source, and I loved that each piece was one-of-a-kind and easy to adapt to my wardrobe.
What do you look for when choosing pieces for your collection? And how do you determine the quality of a piece?
I shop on instinct and gravitate toward unique pieces that use techniques not commonly seen in modern jewellery. I usually look at the hardware and try to buy pieces that are 24K gold-plated because I love the way they shine.
Tell us about your favourite piece from your collection.
My Billy Boy Fraternity Goon necklace from 1987—it’s a statement vintage piece that can elevate casual looks and add a quirky touch to formal ones. I love versatile accessories like that.
What are some of your go-to brands/places to shop for vintage fashion jewellery pieces?
Maison Goossens and Christian Lacroix—their workmanship is superior. I usually source online now, but one of my favourite places was actually the flea market in St. Tropez, so many treasures.
Do you have any advice for those beginning to curate their vintage pieces?
Enjoy the process and train your eye! So many things I bought, I didn’t realise their value until much later. I believe in buying what you love—not just thinking about the brand or the value of the piece. For those who worry about the wear and tear of vintage, I always say: if it’s lasted 30 years already, it’s going to last another 30 more.
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Nathania Tay
Can you share a little about your vintage fashion jewellery collecting journey? How did you start getting interested in it?
My vintage fashion jewellery collecting journey began around five years ago, when I was 17. That was when I really started getting into fashion and exploring my personal style. At the time, I was also interested in crystals and stones, which naturally drew me to jewellery.
A big turning point for me was when my mum started sharing pieces from her own collection—rings, earrings, and bangles she had collected while travelling in her younger days. She couldn’t wear them anymore, so she passed them on to me. These beautiful stone pieces were from when she was about my age, and I was fascinated by how unique they looked and how long they had lasted—nearly 30 years!
That really sparked my love for vintage jewellery. I fell in love with the craftsmanship and quality, and how each piece felt like a little time capsule. For me, jewellery became a form of self-expression. I love how vintage jewellery can completely transform an outfit—even the simplest look can be elevated with the right piece. I enjoy mixing and matching styles to create something unique. There’s just something so satisfying about hunting for the perfect piece—finally finding it makes wearing it feel even more special and rewarding.
What do you look for when choosing pieces for your collection? And how do you determine the quality of a piece?
The first thing I look for is whether it catches my eye. It has to be something I genuinely like or something that feels special and fits my taste. Once something grabs my attention, I usually talk to the seller to learn more about it—what kind of stone or metal it’s made from.
I mainly collect jewellery made from 925 silver or white gold. I’ve always been a silver enthusiast, and I have sensitive skin, so 925 silver works best. It’s tarnish-resistant and long-lasting, which makes the higher price worth it. I always prioritise pieces that are fully silver or gold over plated ones, because other metals tend to rust or tarnish over time.
After that, I do a close-up inspection—checking for tarnishing, rust, or any damage to the stones like chips, dents, or scratches. That said, if a piece has some tarnishing but I really love it, I’ll still get it and maybe try to bargain a little, haha. A little wear can add character.
I’m always drawn to unique designs—pieces you don’t see everywhere. I love the feeling of knowing I have something rare or one-of-a-kind. If I can, I’ll also examine the craftsmanship: how the stones are set, how smooth the finish is. I also think about how the piece fits into my wardrobe. I love layering my jewellery and styling it in different ways, so that’s always a big consideration. To me, a great piece is one that stands out but also complements my everyday style.
Tell us about your favourite piece from your collection.
It has to be these two lapis lazuli silver rings that were passed down from my mum. She bought them in Brisbane when she was in her early twenties, and now I wear them all the time. The design is so unique—unlike anything I’ve ever seen—and every time I wear them, they feel full of history and stories.
What makes them even more special is the connection I feel to my mum when I wear them. She wore them when she was my age, and now I get to do the same. It’s kind of crazy and sweet how similar our styles are. That’s what I love about vintage jewellery—it’s not just fashion; it’s something meaningful, always filled with memories.
What are some of your go-to brands/places to shop for vintage fashion jewellery pieces?
Honestly, I don’t really stick to specific brands because the world of vintage jewellery is so vast and diverse. For me, it’s more about how much I like a piece and the quality it offers, rather than the brand name. Every item has its own story, and I just go for what speaks to me.
My absolute go-to is The Retro Factory. They’ve been curating pieces since 1990 and are behind Singapore’s Vintage Flea Market, which happens on the first weekend of every month, and I cannot recommend them enough. I’ve found so many beautiful pieces there, and their collection is huge and diverse—you’re almost guaranteed to find something you love at a reasonable price. They also have an Antique Centre where they stock a wide range of vintage watches and jewellery.
Besides that, I love checking out local thrift stores in Singapore. Un.Wastelands sometimes has vintage watches and unique finds. I also stay on the lookout for pop-ups or weekend markets, and I usually hear about them through TikTok or Instagram.
Whenever I travel, I make a point to explore vintage flea markets and local weekend markets. Some of my favourite finds were from Sydney and Thailand—it adds so much to the story of a piece when it’s discovered somewhere far from home.
Do you have any advice for those beginning to curate their vintage pieces?
Start small—maybe with a bracelet or a ring that really catches your eye. It’s a good way to figure out what styles you like. Platforms like Pinterest can be great for finding inspiration and helping you discover your personal style.
When you do find something, make sure it’s a piece you truly love and will actually wear. Think about how it fits with your wardrobe and your everyday outfits. Always check the quality—look for tarnishing, damage, or loose stones. Quality really matters, especially for vintage.
Don’t rush into buying something just because it’s cheap or available. If you don’t immediately love it, chances are you won’t wear it much. And most importantly—don’t give up! Some of the most special pieces come to those who wait. Collecting vintage jewellery is a journey, and it’s just as much about the thrill of the hunt as it is about the pieces themselves.
