One of the most thrilling aspects of shopping at a vintage market or brocante is the chance to find that hidden gem — a treasure that’s been overlooked or under priced by others. But how do you know when you’ve found something truly special? And what sets a hidden gem apart from just another piece of vintage decor?
Today, I’m giving you a sneak peek into one of my favourite parts of vintage treasure hunting: spotting those incredible finds that others might pass. Plus, I’ll share a real-life example of a hidden gem I scored, and how I knew it was something special.
Ready to become a vintage treasure hunter? Let’s dive in!
How to Spot Hidden Gems: Look for Quality and Uniqueness
Hidden gems often go unnoticed because they don’t scream “valuable” at first glance. But if you know how to spot quality craftsmanship and unique details, you can find pieces that others might overlook.
Here are some areas to focus on at your next vintage market:
Materials: Check what the item is made of—solid wood, real brass, hand-blown glass, etc. These materials often signal that a piece was well-made and may have a higher value than those made with man made materials.
Condition: While signs of age can add charm, make sure to look for pieces that are structurally sound. A quick repair or polish can bring new life to a hidden treasure though a significant crack may be one bumpy ride from falling apart.
Details: Examine the craftsmanship—are there hand-carved elements, intricate designs, or original finishes? I always look for a maker's mark or stamp. These little touches can be a sign that you’re holding something unique and valuable.
My Terre de Fer Water Jug
Believe it or not, this happens, even with well known quality pieces. Last year I was in the Loire area of France. I reached my second brocante early in the morning with some vendors still setting up. As I walked through a park there was an area with overflow vendors. Most of these stalls were occupied with individuals and families clearing out "stuff" no longer of use or value to them. That always catches my eye. I was in the middle of purchasing a little cheese board when a man ploncked down the most amazing and beautiful large water pitcher - you know, the kind that was stored in a large bowl and kept in bedrooms for washing. It was a gorgeous creamy white with a mid blue floral print.
I knew I needed this piece. In fact, I didn't even need to inspect it - it was coming home with me. I cautiously asked the man the cost. He responded "deux". Deux. Two. TWO? I asked him again and received the same response. In disbelief and wondering if my brain was still asleep, I reached into my pocket and pulled out 2 euros. Held them up and said "Deux?" to him. Now rather a bit impatient with me, he gruffly responded, OUI! I had a start-the-car-Martha moment. I promptly gave him the two coins, grabbed the pitcher, and thanked him - not even bothering for paper or a bag!
Turns out, when I returned from the brocante and unloaded my treasures, I was prepared to find something of no value. Two euros covered the rights to telling this story in my opinion. However, I was chuffed to find a maker's stamp from a very well known manufacturer with the pattern and traced the jug back to the late 1800s! To add icing to this delicious cake, it was in great condition! One slight hairline crack, nothing structural and a light tea staining, which made it oh so charming.
It graces our space with seasonal flowers and compliments every time I pull it out.
That jug was one of the best finds of my brocante adventures, but spotting hidden gems like that takes practice and a good eye. In my upcoming workshop, “The Art of the Hunt: How to Master Any Brocante or Vintage Market,” I’ll teach you exactly how to identify these overlooked treasures, assess their value, and make sure you walk away with something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage hunter or new to the brocante scene, this workshop will take your treasure-hunting skills to the next level!
Join me on January 25th by signing up today online, at atelierchatelaine.com on the EVENTS page.