Wentworth Park is Sydney’s largest Antique and Collectors Fair, hosted by The Collectors Mark (@thecollectorsmark). It's a bi-monthly event where specialist dealers come from all over to trade. During the 90s, before eBay came along, it was THE place to trade antiques and collectables, even booking a stall to sell was competitive.
Today, you can find glassware, china, vinyl records, porcelain, books, war memorabilia, coins and lots of antique and vintage jewellery. Doors open at 9am and close at 3pm. Entry costs $8. Access to an ATM is available, however some dealers do accept card payments.
I’ve been a regular Vintage Jewellery buyer at Wentworth Park for years (since 2017). It is a fantastic event to source vintage jewellery pieces that mix well with contemporary clothing trends.
The recent August meet-up was a busy one, featuring a big vintage vinyl record sale. I had a great time catching up with colleagues and sourcing a few exciting pieces for the HFV edit. Here are the highlights.
1. A Deco Czech Neiger Bracelet. Circa 1930s.
Who is Neiger? The Neiger jewellery company was founded around 1900 in the basement of the Neiger home, by two brothers Norbert and Max Neiger. Following great success, they eventually moved their workshop to Berggasse (Vienna). Prominent American and English retailers all purchased from the Neigers. They were particularly well known for their exotic Eastern designs, featuring Chinese and Egyptian Revival influences, which experienced a big resurgence in popularity in the 1920s.
2. Vintage Mid-Century Trifari Bracelet.
3. A 1960s Peachy Lucite Heart Pendant & Chain by Trifari
Who is Trifari? Trifari was a prestigious American costume jewellery company; when under the influence of the Italian-born chief designer, Alfred Philippe, who had previously designed for Van Cleef and Arpels, produced an array of popular designs to complement contemporary women’s wear from the late 1930s to the late 1960s.
4. Florence Broadhurst Bangle (deadstock, never been worn).
Who is Florence Broadhurst? An internationally recognised Australian painter, wallpaper and fabrics designer. As well as a singer, dancer, musician, businesswoman, charity worker and teacher. Florence took inspiration from her travels to produce her iconic range of textile designs. Some of these designs were adapted for jewellery. Broadhurst even collaborated with well-renowned global fashion designer Kate Spade.
5. Two 1960s Sterling Modernist Rings.
What is Modernism? With the focus on simplicity, functionality and a streamlined aesthetic, modernism was an early 20th century (1917 – 1965) idea that rejected unnecessary ornamentation.
Vintage 1980s Clover Brooch
Embrace good fortune and luck with this stunning vintage clover brooch. Dating from the 1980s and in mint condition. It's a lovely gift idea or treat for yourself.
Vintage 60s Flower Brooch
An unusual brooch design, possibly a piece of Juliana D&E or at least influenced by Juliana's work. It’s quite glitzy (Juliana was well known for their use of art glass). It has dimensionality (most D&E pieces are tiered, domed or otherwise 3 dimensional). It also has the open back with a built-in pin and soldered eyelets. What do you think?
I never know what I'll find at Wentworth Park. It's a wonderful event that I hope will continue running for many generations. If you're interested in any of these pieces I sourced, please don't hesitate to contact me (Hester) via email: hester@curatedvintagejewellery.com