Where to Buy Antique Jewelry in Paris: The Best Gifts to Bring Home
Looking for an elegant souvenir from your trip to Paris? Forget the Eiffel Tower keychains—bring back a piece of history with antique jewelry. Whether you're buying for a loved one or yourself, Paris is full of treasures that blend craftsmanship, elegance, and French heritage.
Here’s your guide to the best antique jewelry gifts to bring back from Paris in 2025.
Antique Gold Medals with French Hallmarks
France has a rich tradition of religious and symbolic medals in gold or silver. Look for authentic hallmarks, such as the eagle’s head for 18k gold. These delicate pendants, often engraved with saints, stars, or Art Nouveau motifs, are both unique and meaningful.
Perfect for: a christening, birthday, or sentimental keepsake.
Vintage Bracelets: Bangles, Semainiers, or Chains
Vintage bracelets come in a range of iconic styles. Classic gold bangles are timeless and chic. The semainier, a set of seven thin bands meant to be worn together, is a collector’s favorite. Delicate or intricate antique chains add an irresistible retro-chic touch.
Perfect for: a collector, a fan of subtle jewelry, or an everyday elegant gift.
Art Deco Earrings
The 1920s left a lasting imprint on Parisian jewelry. Art Deco earrings showcase clean lines, geometric patterns, white gold, diamonds, or onyx. They are timeless, stylish, and easy to wear.
Perfect for: someone with minimalist, modern taste.
Antique Engagement or Promise Rings
Paris is the city of love—what better place to find a one-of-a-kind antique ring? Expect old-cut diamonds, sapphires or rubies, and intricate settings you won’t see in modern designs.
Perfect for: proposals, anniversaries, or meaningful milestones.
Garnet Jewelry from Southern France
Though found in Paris, these bold vintage pieces often originate in Perpignan. Known for raspberry-red garnets and rose gold settings, they’re warm, rich, and distinctly Mediterranean.
Perfect for: vintage lovers and bold color enthusiasts.
French Lockets and Mourning Jewelry
Popular during the Victorian era, these pieces—crafted in jet, enamel, or gold—open to reveal portraits, initials, or small keepsakes. They are steeped in emotion and history.
Perfect for: lovers of symbolic and unique pieces.
Antique Men’s Accessories
From engraved signet rings to gold cufflinks and tie pins, antique men’s jewelry combines subtlety and elegance. Look for French hallmarks and vintage monograms.
Perfect for: a stylish man who’s hard to shop for.
Where to Buy Antique Jewelry in Paris
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Maison Mohs : A curated selection of French antique jewelry, with certified gemologist expertise and English-speaking service.
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Saint-Ouen Flea Market : One of the world’s largest flea markets, perfect for browsing and bargaining.
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Foire de Chatou : A must-visit for antique lovers, this open-air fair on the outskirts of Paris gathers expert dealers in vintage jewelry, furniture, and art. Held twice a year, it's ideal for finding rare and authentic pieces. Next dates: September 26–October 5, 2025. Official website: www.foiredechatou.com
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Le Marais or Galeries Lafayette – High-end boutiques with carefully selected vintage pieces.
Practical Tips for Buying Jewelry in Paris
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Ask for a certificate when purchasing a valuable piece.
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Know your size for rings or bracelets before shopping.
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Pack jewelry carefully in a soft travel pouch.
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Look for French hallmarks to ensure authenticity.
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Inquire about VAT refunds if you're visiting from outside the EU.
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Be cautious of theft: avoid wearing high-value jewelry in crowded public areas and store it safely.
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At Maison Mohs : a certificate of authenticity is provided, a gift box is included, the hallmarks are listed on the product sheet, and a detailed invoice is provided. Make an appointment using our form.
Bringing home a piece of jewelry from Paris isn't just about buying an object: it's about taking home a piece of French heritage and expertise. Whether antique, vintage, or Art Deco, each piece tells a story.
It's up to you to write the rest — or give it to someone.
