Where to Shop: Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry, San Francisco

A magnificent bracelet from Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry

Opened in 1969 by Czechoslovakian Jarmilla Lang, Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry is located in San Francisco’s famed Union Square. With their attention focused on selecting the finest antique and estate pieces, the friendly staff at “Lang” takes pride in transporting their customers and visitors to a gentler world of bygone days—a world of grace and elegance. Their selection is unparalleled. Even looking in their windows is a mesmerizing experience.


If you’re not able to visit San Francisco, Lang Antique and Estate Jewelry offers a glimpse into their collection through their wonderful Web site. If you’re in the market for a beautiful piece of jewelry or just enjoy looking, this is the place to go.

Where to Shop: Lots of Furniture, Dallas

Riverfront Boulevard (formerly Industrial Parkway) in Dallas is lined with antique shops. One of the most interesting of the bunch is Lots of Furniture. Essentially a large warehouse, “Lots” is packed to the gills with an array of interesting antiques of an ever-changing assortment. From architectural pieces and windows to fine chandeliers and clocks, everything you could possibly imagine is available at Lots of Furniture.

Their selection of paintings is excellent as is the varied assortment of antique objects that’s available to you. Truly the home of some of the most unusual antiques in Dallas, if you’re in the area, you must visit Lots of Furniture. Just know going in that this is not a swanky gallery, you’ve got to be ready to dig around. There’s too much inventory to display it like a museum. By far, this is the most active antique store in town. For more information, visit their Web site.

Where to Shop: Burlington Arcade, London

The arcade as it looked in 1819, courtesy Burlington Arcade

Opened in 1819, the Burlington Arcade was England’s first public shopping gallery. Nearly two-hundred years later, Burlington Arcade is considered one of the most exceptional shopping areas in the world—celebrated for its posh shops and beautiful architecture. The arcade is the longest covered shopping street in England, running behind Bond Street from Piccadilly through to Burlington Gardens

The arcade today, courtesy Burlington Arcade

Still guarded by the Burlington Arcade Beadles in traditional uniform, Burlington Arcade continues its tradition of offering the finest of merchandise. Jewelry, silver, antiques, art and the finest of clothing are among the many exceptional items you’ll find beneath the arcade’s covered walkways. Popular with celebrities and the Mayfair elite, Burlington Arcade offers an unexpected bit of luxury and quiet from the bustle of the London streets. If you find yourself in London, window-shopping in this exquisite arcade will be an enriching experience.

Where to Shop: The Whisnant Galleries, New Orleans

Aside from the wonderful food, amazing music and breath-taking sights of New Orleans’ French Quarter, an incredibly varied and remarkable selection of antiques is available. Royal Street, Chartres Street and Dauphin Street are lined with exquisite antique stores. The Whisnant Galleries, located at 222 Chartres Street is one of the best. Offering rare paintings from the Seventeenth Century onward, mirrors, lighting, silver, china, jewelry, objet d’art, arms and armor, among other rare curiosities, the Whisnant Galleries has been one of the most outstanding purveyors of fine antiques in the French Quarter since 1968. A visit to their twelve thousand square foot show room is a must if you’re in the area. Not only is their selection incredible, the staff is knowledgeable, kind and welcoming. You won’t regret your visit.

Where to Shop: Lovers Lane Antique Market

Again, I’m offering up a Dallas-based shop. Next time, I’ll be broader in my scope. However, the Lover’s Lane Antique Market deserves a mention. Ripe with beautiful French and English antiques, this market located at 5001 West Lovers Lane in Dallas offers a truly exceptional selection of antiques, art and decorator items. With thirty-five dealers who roam Europe and North America for the finest objects, Lovers Lane Antique Market offers some truly rare artifacts. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Where to Shop: Forestwood Antique Mall

If you’re in the Dallas, Texas-area, a visit to Forestwood Antique Mall is a must. With a forty-five thousand square foot show room and over 200 dealers, Forestwood offers thousands of beautiful items. Shari King, Forestwood’s manager, keeps the place running in tip-top shape. Among the many notable dealers at Forestwood, my favorite is Yvette Inness who offers an amazing assortment of antique paintings, objects and furniture. With their lovely tearoom and easy to navigate showroom, Forestwood also boasts one of the best inventories in North Texas. Visit their Web site for more information.