By Julie Davis
For the jewelry lover, Asbury Park’s Antique Emporium is a virtual gold mine
Anyone who has ever browsed an antique store knows that alongside Victorian settees, Queen Anne dining sets and 1950s’ champagne flutes are some of the most precious finds – antique jewels worth their weight in gold (or any metal, for that matter).
Most local dealers tend to sell more furniture and decorative accents than fine gems and costume pieces. The Antique Emporium of Asbury Park is the exception. It’s the jewelry equivalent of a candy store.
When you walk in, hang a left. Here you’ll find display stand after display stand dripping with one-of-a-kind, vintage finds. Chunky bangles, chest-plate pendants and cocktail rings the size of martini glasses are begging to be tried on.
Most of what the Antique Emporium of Asbury Park sells, says owner Rudy Valentino, is vintage costume jewelry. Though, he notes, there are a select few dealers who offer high-end sterling and estate pieces.
The jewelry, while vintage, looks and feels modern – yet each has a storied past, making it all the more special. Most of the pieces come from estate sales, auctions, flea markets and tag sales. Some are even from walk-ins who sell on the spot.
Over the past few seasons, big, bold accessories – from handbags to jewelry – have been an ongoing and well-accepted trend. It continues this spring with oversized costume pieces, such as statement necklaces and embellished earrings, as a chic and less expensive way to add style and edge to any outfit.
decorative, there’s a ring for every finger.
Valentino says jewelry at the Antique Emporium of Asbury Park sells for anywhere between $5 and a few hundred dollars. “It all depends on the material, age and who made it,” he notes.
He also adds that new pieces come in daily, which means there’s always an original find to be found.
Run, don’t walk. Your hidden gem, or perhaps even treasure, is waiting.
Antique Emporium of Asbury Park
646 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park
732-774-8230
