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2026 Jewelry Trends: The Year Vintage, Brooches, and “Pieces With Permanence” Take Center Stage

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Source note: This article is based on a YouTube auto-generated transcript for “Welcome to Jewellery Trends 2026” with Amanda Weldon. Written by Angela Gentile with the help of ChatGPT 5.2.

2026 jewelry trends aren’t about buying a whole new look. The energy is shifting away from quiet restraint and toward personal expression—pieces that feel joyful, wearable, and uniquely you. The message is: if something resonates, wear it. Pull out what’s been packed away. Mix old with new. Build a look that feels intentional instead of trend-chasing.

That’s exactly why vintage jewelry is having a real moment—and why brooches are one of the smartest, most wearable ways to join the movement.

The Big 2026 Shift: Ornate, Decorative, Antique-Inspired Jewelry Returns

According to Amanda Weldon, a major theme for 2026 is a resurgence of ornate and decorative jewelry. Multiple publications are mentioned as pointing to Taylor Swift’s vintage-style engagement ring as a catalyst—helping bring attention back to romance, detail, and antique influence.

The renewed interest includes:

  • Georgian-inspired burnished gold settings
  • Art Deco design influence
  • Intricate engraving
  • Antique stone cuts (including old mine cuts and rose cuts)

The focus on vintage appeal connects to sustainability. As people move away from fast fashion, there’s a growing appreciation for jewelry that feels meaningful and enduring. Vintage pieces don’t just match the aesthetic—they come with history, memories, and story.

2026 Brooch Forecast: Why Brooches and Pins Make Sense Right Now

Brooches fit the 2026 mood perfectly because they sit at the intersection of:

  • Personal expression (a brooch is instantly “you”)
  • Ornate detail (brooches are made to be decorative)
  • Sustainability (vintage pins are already in circulation)
  • Wearability (you can change your whole outfit in seconds)

Brooch styles that feel especially “2026”

If you’re shopping vintage, these are the brooch directions that align beautifully with what Amanda describes:

1) Ornate + romantic pieces
Look for detailed metalwork, engraving-like texture, florals, bows, filigree, and anything that feels “old world” or heirloom-inspired.

2) Art Deco-inspired geometry
Crisp lines, symmetrical shapes, stepped forms, structured silhouettes, and elegant sparkle.

3) Color stories (instead of only neutrals)
Color is back. For brooches, that can mean colored stones, glass, rhinestones, cabochons, or rich jewel tones that feel personal and expressive.

4) Sculptural silver (bold, dimensional, textured)
Silver is called out as a major 2026 metal—especially in statement-making shapes. This is prime territory for vintage brooches.

5) Pieces with movement
Texture and movement is in the spotlight (like tassels). In brooch form, look for fringe, chain drape, dangles, or swingy elements.

How to Wear Vintage Brooches in 2026 (Modern Styling)

If you want brooch styling to feel current (not “old-fashioned”), try:

  • One statement brooch on a coat lapel (clean + powerful)
  • On a denim jacket (instant cool, especially with silver)
  • On a scarf (stylish + practical — also keeps it in place)
  • On the shoulder of a sweater (editorial touch)
  • On a bag strap (personal, playful, unexpected)
  • Two small pins on one lapel (curated “mini collection” look)

A key styling note is intentionality: choose a statement, commit to it, and then add only what supports it. That’s exactly how to make brooch styling feel modern.

Trend Highlights That Pair Beautifully With Vintage

Sculptural cuffs (wrist + ear)

Sculptural cuffs are emphasized as statement pieces—often worn solo as the focal point. Ear cuffs are highlighted for giving impact without extra piercings.

Vintage-friendly idea: modernist cuffs, bold metalwork, and statement pieces.
Brooch connection: the “one focal piece” approach is the brooch’s home turf.

Bezel-set stones + color stories

Bezel settings are described as sleek and practical, and there’s a shift toward gemstones and expressive color.

Vintage-friendly idea: vintage stones (glass, rhinestones, cabochons) deliver the same vibe with more character.
Brooch connection: color near the face is flattering and high-impact.

Tassels + movement

Texture and movement are in—tassels and swingy details show up across jewelry categories.

Vintage-friendly idea: fringe, chain drape, and dangling details.
Brooch connection: dangle brooches or chain-drape pins check this box instantly.

Ring stacks (bold + intentional)

Stacking is bold and playful, often mixed metal, but the “best” look is curated rather than chaotic.

Vintage-friendly idea: vintage makes curated layering easier because every piece has its own personality.
Brooch connection: “stacking” translates to wearing 2–3 pins in a themed way (color, motif, era).

Timepieces (vintage watches as everyday jewelry)

Watches are back as style—cocktail watches, slim silhouettes, elegant faces, mother-of-pearl, mixed metals, and heirloom vibes—worn from brunch to the boardroom.

Brooch connection: a brooch creates that same “finished” polish if you’re not a watch wearer.

Silver’s return (bold, sculptural, mix it with gold)

Silver is highlighted as fresh and impactful—especially sculptural designs. Don’t be hesitant to mix silver and gold and style silver with cool tones (navy, gray, blue, green).

Brooch connection: silver-tone brooches pop beautifully on denim, navy, charcoal, or winter white.

Cord jewelry is still trending

Cord jewelry continues from 2025 and works with charms, pendants, beads, and a more casual, wearable vibe (also friendly for sensitive skin because it can sit over clothing).

Brooch connection: cord necklaces + a brooch on outerwear creates a curated layered look.

Vintage Brooch Buying Checklist (Quick + Practical)

If you’re shopping vintage brooches, here’s what matters:

Condition + security

  • Stones: all present / none missing noted
  • Settings: prongs tight, stones secure
  • Pin stem: straight (not bent)
  • Clasp: closes securely

Wearability

  • Weight: very heavy pieces can pull on delicate knits
  • Backing: open vs closed backs can affect sparkle and cleaning
  • Size: consider where it will be worn (lapel vs scarf vs bag)

Material cues

  • Silver-tone vs gold-tone plating wear (normal with age—just disclose it)
  • Enamel: look for chips or hairline cracks
  • Signed pieces: great, but unsigned can still be fabulous

Final Thought: Wear Your Sparkle

The most important message for 2026 is simple: wear the jewelry you love. Don’t leave your sparkle in a drawer. Whether it’s a meaningful heirloom, a vintage brooch you scored thrifting, or a piece that just makes you happy—2026 is about showing up in your own style.

If you’re ready to explore vintage pieces with story and personality, you can browse my latest finds from my line called GA Vintage. Search @gatreasures or my Poshmark Closet – AngelaGGentile. I am also on Facebook Marketplace and I attend Flea Markets and other Markets throughout the year!

Thanks for reading! I would love to hear from you. Use the Comments form below.

Angela G. Gentile

Gentle Angel Treasures/GA Vintage

The Fun Way to Shop Vintage in Canada: My Poshmark Closet Shop

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Poshmark Logo

Shopping on Poshmark Canada (and why buyers like it)

I buy, sell, and collect vintage jewelry and small collectibles. Poshmark Canada is a social marketplace where you can shop curated closets from individual sellers—everything from everyday finds to unique vintage pieces. In my closet, which I have named “angelaggentile,” I specialise in vintage jewelry and small collectibles. I ship within Canada only. It’s a place to find Gentle Angel Treasures and GA Vintage items.

To shop on Poshmark, you’ll need to create a free account first. You can browse and shop on the Poshmark app or on the website. 

Benefits for buyers on Poshmark

  • Easy checkout + protected flow: Poshmark manages the transaction process from purchase through delivery. Poshmark uses Canada Post and ships anywhere within Canada.
  • You can make offers: On many listings, you can buy at the listed price or submit an offer. 
  • Clear delivery/acceptance process: After your item is delivered, you accept the order in the app/site to confirm everything is good—this releases the seller’s payment. If you don’t accept, Poshmark will auto-accept after 3 days (as long as there’s no issue opened) and then release the payment. 
  • Canada-only shopping and shipping: Great for Canadian buyers who want to shop within Canada and avoid cross-border complications.

Check Out My Poshmark Closet

https://poshmark.ca/closet/angelaggentile

Sign up for a Poshmark account by visiting the direct registration link at https://poshmark.ca/signup or by downloading the Poshmark app and selecting “Sign Up.” You can register using email, Facebook, Apple, or Google accounts to start buying or selling immediately. 

Key Details for Signing Up:

  • Direct Link: https://poshmark.ca/signup
  • Alternative: Poshmark Canada homepage and click “Sign Up”.
  • Process: Create a unique username (can be changed later up to three times), enter email/password, and set up your profile.
  • Cost: Registration is free. 

You can also download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to create an account directly on your mobile device. 

I hope you can get around to checking out my Poshmark Closet! Thanks for reading and have a great day!

Angela G. Gentile

P.S. For readers from the USA, check out Poshmark.com.

From Malls to Meaning: How I Fell Out of Love with Big-Box Shopping

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Photo by Deybson Mallony on Pexels.com

by Angela Gentile – GA Vintage & Gentle Angel Treasures

For most of my life, shopping meant malls, bright lights, and endless rows of shiny, new products. Big-box stores were my go-to for almost everything. I liked the convenience, the variety, and the thrill of finding something new. I even liked the smell of new — walking into a store that smelled like plastic, chemicals, perfume, and fake fragrances was something I grew accustomed to.

But over the past few years — especially since diving into my love for thrifting, vintage treasures, and handmade items — I’ve noticed a big shift in myself:

I rarely feel like going to the mall anymore. Those big-box aisles just don’t hold the same magic.

And here’s why.

1. The Thrill of the Hunt

When I walk into a thrift shop, antique store, or flea market, I don’t know what I’ll find — and that’s the fun of it. Every shelf holds a mystery. Maybe it’s a hand-painted vase from the 1950s, a brooch that’s seen decades of celebrations, or a hand-stitched tablecloth that someone poured hours of love into.

In contrast, big-box shopping feels predictable. Rows of identical items, mass-produced (usually made in China) and ready to be replaced the minute the “new season” arrives. Once you’ve experienced the joy of finding something truly unique, it’s hard to get excited about something you know thousands of other people have in their carts.

2. The Emotional Connection

Vintage and handmade items come with a story. Even if I don’t know every detail, I can feel the history in them. They’ve been loved, used, and cherished before — awaiting a new life.

New products rarely carry that weight of meaning. They’re just “things,” fresh from the factory, waiting for a story to begin.

3. Quality That Lasts

The more I thrift, the more I realize how well older items were made. Small hand-painted collectibles. Jewelry with intricate details. Dishes and glassware that have lasted decades without losing their charm.

Compare that to many new items today — lightweight, mass-produced, sometimes built to last only until the next trend rolls in. Once you know the difference, it’s hard to go back.

4. Better for the Planet

Every time we buy second (or third) hand, we keep something out of the landfill and reduce demand for new manufacturing. That means less waste, less energy use, and less strain on our planet. The same goes for handmade items — often created in small batches, with care, rather than churned out in massive factories.

5. The Happiness Psychology Behind It

There’s even a brain science reason for my shift. Thrifting is like a treasure hunt. When we find something unexpected and special, our brains release dopamine — that little “yay!” hit of happiness.

Big-box shopping? You usually know exactly what you’ll find. Without surprise, there’s less excitement.

My Personal Shopping Checklist

Before I buy anything new now (except for intimates and makeup), I ask myself:

  • Can I find this secondhand or handmade?
  • Will it last?
  • Does it make me feel something?

If the answer is “no” to most of those… I walk away.

Why This Matters to You

When you choose vintage, handmade, or secondhand, you’re not just buying an object — you’re preserving history, supporting small businesses, and giving beautiful things a new life. It is also more likely you are keeping your money in Canada at a time when the economy is counting on it.

That’s exactly what I do with GA Vintage and Gentle Angel Treasures. Every item I sell is chosen with care, for its charm, quality, and story. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry, a collectible, or home décor, it’s something that deserves to be loved again. Every piece of jewelry I make is “Made with Love.”

So next time you’re tempted by the mall, maybe try a different kind of shopping trip. Wander into a thrift store. Visit a local artisan market. Or browse my latest finds. You might be surprised by what you discover — and how good it feels to own something truly unique.

Let’s give the past a future — one beautiful item at a time.

(Written with the help of ChatGPT 5)

Top 10 In-Demand Vintage Jewelry Categories on eBay

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GA Treasures & Vintage Market Insight – updated July 2025

The following highlights current eBay watch counts, sold-item data, and 2025 style coverage into a quick-reference guide. It was written with the help of research by ChatGPT o3. Prices are in Canadian dollars. I have added some examples of items that will give you an idea of what some of these pieces look like. I have also added a link to where more info on the items can be found, therefore credit given to the respective owners.


1. Art Deco Engagement & Cocktail Rings (1920-30s)

Art Deco Ring Screenshot – https://ebay.us/m/q3SWYh

Geometrics in platinum or white gold, calibre-cut coloured stones, and transitional-cut diamonds continue to headline 2025’s heritage trend. Authentic rings regularly qualify for eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee.

Typical price range: $800 – 5,000+ (diamonds); $300 – 900 (coloured-stone platinum).

2. Carved Bakelite Bangles & Figural Brooches (1930-50s)

Ripley Auctions – Vintage Scottie Dog Bakelite Brooch Screenshot – https://www.ripleyauctions.com/auction-lot/vintage-bakelite-carved-figural-scottie-dog-brooc_4D44EA2B8D

Stacked lamination, “Philadelphia” style carving, cherries, Scotty dogs—collectors bid fast on rare colours or motifs.

Typical price band: $120 – 600 (bangles); exceptional brooches can top $ 1,000.

3. Signed Mid-Century Costume Sets – Trifari, Coro, Eisenberg, Weiss, Sherman

eBay – Vintage Sherman Parure Screenshot – https://ebay.us/m/KJ4jE0

Brand searches remain among the highest-volume keywords on eBay’s Terapeak tool. Full parures outsell singles roughly two-to-one.

Typical price range: $60 – 300 per brooch; $250 – 900 for complete sets (Sherman Aurora Borealis pieces often higher).

4. Native-American Sterling & Turquoise (Navajo, Zuni, Hopi)

Etsy – Vintage Navajo Cluster Cuff Bracelet Screenshot – https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1636753018/vintage-native-american-navajo-cluster?ref=share_ios_native_control

Squash-blossom necklaces, cluster cuffs, storyteller rings. Maker’s marks and natural stones drive value.

Typical price range: $150 – 1,500+ depending on size and artist.

5. Victorian & Edwardian Mourning / Hairwork Jewelry

eBay – Vintage Locket – https://ebay.us/m/PC3GSD

Jet, gutta-percha, onyx, and woven-hair lockets attract a devoted niche audience; many listings show 20–30 watchers.

Typical price range: $95 – 400 (brooches); gold-backed pieces climb higher.

6. Vintage CHANEL, Dior & Other Couture Logo Pieces (1970s-1990s)

eBay Sold – Christian Dior necklace and earring set – https://ebay.us/m/o8mq2g

CC medallion chains, Gripoix poured-glass crosses, CD earrings. Logo-mania and limited production runs keep demand high.

Typical price range: $500 – 2,500; boxed sets fetch a premium.

7. Scandinavian Modernist Sterling (Georg Jensen, David Andersen, Larin)

eBay – Vintage Minimalist Torque Necklace – https://ebay.us/m/HbPLYC

Minimalist torque necklaces and brutalist pendants enjoy a steady global buyer pool and limited supply.

Typical price range: $250 – 1,200; rare Jensen torques can top $2,000.

8. Hand-Carved Shell or Lava Cameos (1800s-1950s)

eBay – Hand-Carved Lava Cameo https://ebay.us/m/ydgK3r

Large (40 mm+) profiles or unusual subject matter stand out.

Typical price range: $80 – 500+; gold-framed examples escalate quickly.

9. Baroque Pearl Strands & Statement Earrings (1940s-1980s)

eBay – Vintage Akoya Baroque Pearl Necklace – https://ebay.us/m/wdlR6l

Irregular “keshi” or Akoya pearls match today’s designer obsession with organic forms.

Typical price range: $250 – 1,000 for quality Akoya; vintage faux bibs still clear $60+.

10. 1990s Chokers & Bold Gold-Tone Chains

eBay – Vintage Velvet Choker – https://ebay.us/m/5wtoHK

Velvet cameo chokers, heavy Napier collars, curb-link Y2K chains ride the ’90s nostalgia wave.

Typical price range: $30 – 180 (costume); designer couture much higher.

Angela Gentile

Vintage Treasures – Crocheted Doilies and Table Runners

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On one of my treasure hunts at a local thrift store I came across this beautiful crocheted table runner. It is quite long (about 30”) and I started to think about the time, effort, and skill needed to handcraft such a beautiful heirloom. I asked ChatGPT 4.0 to give me more information on this timeless piece and it came up with some very interesting information which I will share here.

I used to have a few of these on my dark antique furniture and they had been purchased in Italy. They are long gone now.

This hand-crocheted table runner made of joined lace medallions, is often referred to as a motif table runner or a crochet lace doily table runner. Each round motif is typically called a pineapple motif, rose motif, or simply a floral medallion, depending on the specific design.

It appears to be made from fine cotton thread—likely mercerized cotton, giving it that soft sheen and durability. This type of thread was and still is common for intricate doilies and runners.

This type of work was especially popular between the 1930s to 1960s, with a resurgence in the 1970s during the craft revival. If this one was inherited or sourced from a vintage estate, it is likely from mid-20th century.

Each floral motif would have been hand-crocheted individually and then joined together in a grid-like arrangement. Based on the complexity and uniformity of the stitches, it was likely made by an experienced crafter.

A piece like this could take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours or more, depending on the skill of the crocheter. Each medallion may take 30–45 minutes to complete and join, and there are at least 60 motifs in the runner shown.

Value (2025 Estimate):

  • Market resale value (Canada/US): CAD $30–$85 depending on condition, local demand, and presentation.
  • Higher-end pricing (Etsy, vintage boutiques): up to CAD $120+ if marketed as “handmade vintage lace crochet table runner.”
  • Craftsmanship value (not resale, but to appreciate the work): priceless—these are often family heirlooms.

Tips for Selling or Displaying:

  • Mention that it is handmade vintage crochet, cotton thread, and highlight the floral motif pattern.
  • Use terms like cottagecore, grandmillennial, shabby chic, or French country—these styles are popular with decor buyers.
  • To display it: layer it over a dark or solid color to highlight the intricate work.

What a beautiful treasure I found. Do you have any memories of these beautiful furniture adornments? Can they be repurposed or made into other things?

How about this large framed doily (stains and all!) that I inherited from my grandmother. Is this worthy of putting up on a wall somewhere? If this doily could talk!

How many hours did this one take I wonder?

Share your thoughts below or send me an email by completing the contact form.

Angela Gentile

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Gentle Angel Treasures Pop-Up and Garage Sale This Weekend (Sat. May 10/25, 9-3 pm)

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I live in a beautiful, vibrant community in Winnipeg, Manitoba, that hosts The Whyte Ridge Community Garage Sale annually on the Saturday before Mother’s Day. The community is hopping that day and parking patrols are always out so watch where you park!

This year, in addition to having a Garage Sale, I will also be holding a Gentle Angel Treasures Pop-Up Sale! I will have my bracelets, earrings, spinner rings and some of my newly source vintage items. All forms of payment are accepted.

Whyte Ridge is a community area in the city of Winnipeg located in the south west corner, just south of Costco off Kenaston Blvd. We have tons of shopping, restaurants, and services in our area.

If you are free, please come by and see me at my Garage Sale and Pop-Up Sale on Saturday, May 10/25, 9-3 pm. Message me for my address if you don’t know where I am located. Hope to see you!

Angela Gentile

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Vintage Jewelry & Small Collectibles – Canada

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Facebook is a great platform for people to connect. I have been a member of many groups, and I have created, administered, and moderated many groups over the years. My latest group on Facebook for Vintage in Canada was created because I saw a need for a place where Canadians can join and share their love of vintage jewelry and small collectibles.

This new PRIVATE group is perfect for people who want to buy, sell, share information, get identification on items, as well as just enjoy other people’s collections. I want this group to be specific to Canadians so we can buy and sell items easily through our Canada Post mail. Vintage is anything 20 years or older by the way.

This group will grow and mature and I hope to see lots of fellow Canadians join.

Check it out at https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3Ezc2WxX/

Have fun!

Angela Gentile

Your Guide to Birthday Perks in Winnipeg

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Birthday Bowls at Mongo’s Grill

Our own birthday is something we all acknowledge, whether with family, friends, or on our own. We celebrate “each year around the sun” and with that comes greetings and well wishes from those we know and care about.

Some establishments such as restaurants also welcome their customers who are celebrating their birthdays and offer perks and freebies. In Winnipeg, there are several businesses that reward their customers with special gifts. Many of those places that will honour someone on their birthday with a special treat or discount are listed here, in alphabetical order. Let me know if you have any others to add.

Applebee’s – Sign up for the loyalty program and you will get things like a free appetizer, birthday treat, deals, etc.

Booster Juice – Free drink on your birthday.

Boston Pizza – Has a loyalty program, if you sign up you get a free dessert on your birthday and a free two-topping pizza on your first anniversary.

Canadian Brewhouse – Free nachos on your birthday.

Chatime (Outlets) – Register your birthday to receive a free drink on your birthday.

Cobb’s Bread – Free cinnamon bun on your birthday.

Dairy Queen – Sign up for the Blizzard Club and you get a birthday treat and more.

Denny’s – Has a free grand slam on your birthday, you just have to show your ID and it has to be on your actual birthday.

Giant Tiger – A bag of chocolates on your birthday.

IHOP – The Rewards program has lots of extras including free birthday pancakes.

Jugo Juice – When signed up for the rewards program, you will get a free smoothie

The Keg – When dining, they will give the birthday guy or girl a complimentary Billy Miner Pie.

Kiehl’s – When signed up for their rewards program, you will get a gift during birthday month

Marble Slab – Sign up at least 48 hours before your birthday, and you’ll get an email with sweet surprises.

Mongos Grill – Offers a free birthday stir fry called “Birthday Bowl.” Customers must dine in on their birthday and show a valid ID. The offer is only available at Winnipeg locations and is for dine-in only. Drinks, desserts, and upgrades are not included. 

Montanas – Club gets you 10% off a minimum $30 purchase and a free sweet treat.

Olive Garden – Sign up for the Olive Garden Club and include your birthdate and address. On your birthday, dine at Olive Garden and you will receive a free dessert worth up to $10.

Perogy Planet – Free dozen perogies with ID showing your birthdate.

Rae & Jerry’s Steakhouse – Offers a birthday gift of three desserts to customers who subscribe to their email list. To sign up, fill out the pop-up on the Rae & Jerry’s website.

Red Robin – Sign up for the Red Robin Loyalty Program. Opt-in to email or text messages. Verify your phone number and add your birthday. They will send you a reminder to get your free burger when your birthday month arrives. You can redeem the coupon for dine-in only with a minimum purchase of $4.99.

Sephora – Get a free birthday gift with a $25 purchase. You can redeem it any time during your birthday month.

Smitty’s – Download the MySmitty’s app and sign up for the rewards program. Simply doing this will put you in the default Bronze Tier and qualifies you for FREE MINI DONUTS during your birthday month. The Bronze – Silver – Gold Tiered rewards program offers loyal customers bonus points during the year and Gold Tier members earn a free birthday meal (up to $24) during their birthday month. (You have to spend $1,500.00+ over the course of the year to get Gold Tier member status.)

Starbucks – If you use the app, you can get a free birthday reward. To qualify, you have to had downloaded the app at least two weeks before your birthday and made an eligible purchase in the last year.

Subway – Free cookie on your birthday.

Sweet Impressions – Has a birthday club that gets you get a free cupcake on your birthday.

Tim Hortons – Free select drink or sandwich

Wendy’s – Free Frosty on your birthday

Information from various sources including http://www.savemoneyinwinnipeg.com

If you find any discrepancies with this list and the actual offer, please let me know so I can update this list.

Happy Birthday!

Angela G. Gentile

Your Guide to Senior Discounts in Winnipeg

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Depending on where you shop you may or may not be eligible for a discount or other freebies as you enter your “golden years.” I have found some establishments start their senior discounts at age 55, some at 60, others at 65.

The main tip for benefiting from a senior discount is…YOU MUST ASK FOR IT!

Here are the Winnipeg senior discounts that I know of (in alphabetical order). Let me know if you have any to add!

Bulk Barn, 65+, 15% every Wednesday

Canadian Goodwill, “Seniors”, 20% every Tuesday

Giant Tiger, 60+, 10% on the first Monday of every month

M & M Food Market, 60+, 10% off all regular priced items in-store or online (code SENIORSDAY)

Michael’s, 55+, 10% every day

Rexall, 55+, 20% every Tuesday with a Be Well Rewards Card

Shopper’s Drug Mart, 65+, 20% every Thursday with a PC Optimum card

Subway, 60+, 10% every day

Thrift Store Salvation Army, 60+, 10% every day

Value Village, 60+, 30% every Tuesday

Winnipeg Transit, 65+, “discounted” fare rates

It pays to get old!

Have a great day.

Angela G. Gentile

Top Auction Houses in Winnipeg for Unique Finds

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I have been discovering some unique finds at auctions in and around Winnipeg. I don’t buy larger items at auction such as automobiles, farm equipment, and land, so those will not be listed here. There are a few auction companies I have used, or those that I follow, that I will mention here (in no particular order). Please let me know if you know of any more in or around the Winnipeg area! Happy bidding! 

Neighbourhood Auctions Ltd.

Estates, high-end collectibles, and liquidation goods (Consignment)

36 Mandalay Drive, Winnipeg, Manitoba (Maples area). (204) 306-0024

Consignment fees are 10 – 100% depending on how much the item or lot was sold for. 

https://www.neighbourhoodauctions.com

Centre Flavie – Boutique Unique (Donation-based)

Centre Flavie is a donation and volunteer-based Non-Profit Charitable Organization that serves vulnerable and impoverished members of the community. Centre Flavie provides clothing, furniture, beds, appliances, etc. free of charge to people in need. A division of Centre Flavie, Boutique Unique has a secondhand and vintage shop (free for those in need, see next paragraph below) and an auction entity created to help raise long-term sustainable funding for Centre Flavie. Their online auction site through Boutique Unique has lots of amazing items. I have successfully bid and won auction items (ex. Sherman jewelry, Lalique glass statue) and I highly recommend!

FYI – For those in need, folks can go to Centre Flavie (301 Archibald Street) to find the items they require at Boutique Unique. Help is available Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. All who are present at the Centre at 8:30 a.m. Monday to Friday will be entered in a random draw held each morning to decide the order of entry. There is no need or purpose in coming any earlier to wait in line. Anyone arriving after the draw will go to the end of the line.

CTV report: https://www.ctvnews.ca/winnipeg/article/a-peek-inside-winnipegs-boutique-unique/

301 Archibald Street (St. Boniface area). (204) 231-9513

https://centreflavie.com/en/

Kaye’s Auctions

Winnipeg Family Owned and Operated business since late 1980s. Bringing unique and tucked-away treasures to the surface. They do larger scale sales like estates and cannot accommodate smaller individual consignment lots now or in the near future (as they are backed up!).

263 Stanley Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba (Downtown area). (204) 668-0183

https://www.kayesauctions.ca

Tailored Auctions LTD.

Updating new items weekly! Unique finds and collectibles. Contact them for consignment opportunities. I have successfully bid on some smaller lots of jewelry and it was fun. Reasonable prices (depending on who is bidding and what people are going for!).

666 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba (West End area). (204) 330-8008

https://tailoredauctions.hibid.com

Dominion Auctions

The offer consignment. They have a strong market for a variety of goods including sterling silver, gold jewelry, fine Canadian and International art, Chinese antiques, Fine furniture from the middle ages or mid-century, carpets, hand-knotted wood and silk, collectibles, and more. Many of their items are in the thousand-dollar and up price range. 

424 Graham Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba (Downtown, inside Bison Books). (204) 477-5353

http://dominionantiques.com

Canadian Goodwill – Sharing Secondhand Stories

Goodwill has thrift store auctions called “Auction Windows” where collectible, vintage, or otherwise highly desired items are displayed for a number of weeks with a “Last Chance to Bid” date posted. The bidding is done by a “Silent Auction” process. The bidder does not get to closely inspect the items; they only get to see the item from the window. A starting price is suggested. Then the person goes into the store and writes their bid on a piece of paper and inserts it into a box which has a slot on the top. Other people’s bids are not visible or revealed. On the day after final bidding, the person with the highest bid will be called. They can choose to accept and go into the store to give the item a closer look and inspection. If the item is suitable and desired for the bidded amount, the buyer can pay for the item. If not, the item will then be offered to the next highest bidder. 

Auction Windows in Winnipeg can be found at the following four Goodwill locations:

3431 Portage Avenue, (204) 431-0988 (Crestview area)

1540 Pembina Hwy, (204) 475-4593 (Fort Garry area)

17-2136 McPhillips St., (204) 475-6438 (Garden City area)

317 St. Anne’s Road, (204) 257-3644 (Southdale area)

Photos of the items as seen through the window are also posted at https://canadiangoodwill.ca/auction-items. If you follow on Facebook or Instagram, you may get to see the items up for auction sooner. 

Winnipeg Police Unclaimed Goods Auction (City of Winnipeg)

Usually held in March. No upcoming dates available. 

Willy’s Auctions (Oakbank)

Family-owned and operated. They truly LOVE all collectibles. No upfront fees for listing your items. They encourage consignment. Competitive commission rates on sold items. I have won a few auction lots and I combined picking up my goods with a trip to Pine Ridge Hollow for a lunch and visit to the shops!

27070 Hillside Road, Oakbank, Manitoba. (431) 388-8371

https://www.willysauctions.com

Bidding Wars for St. Amant (a Facebook Community, Located in Winnipeg Beach)

A fundraiser to raise money to help with any training or upkeep to the service of St. Amant. Money raised is 100% for all autistic and special needs children and adults that benefit from services through St. Amant. Many of the items are in the $5-20 price range. Donations accepted.

Box 585, Winnipeg Beach, Manitoba. Contact: leopardlady@mymts.net

https://facebook.com/biddingwarsforstamant

Craig Street Cats Auction (Facebook)

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16EhmNxaKm/

eBay

Look for local auctions on the eBay website. Use the Advanced search feature and enter Keywords (Whatever you want), Buying Format: Auction, Shipping Options: Local Pickup, Item Location: Items within…of your postal code. If there is anything in your area or in Winnipeg that matches your search it will pop up.

https://www.ebay.com

Happy bidding!

Angela G. Gentile