Do you love browsing for unique items such as costume jewelry, armoires, dishes, and mirrors? If so, you sound like an antiquer to me. But don’t run off to the country for some quaint antique shop just yet — whether you’re looking for a piece of jewelry or a piece of furniture, you can find what you need right in the city!

Before you begin your search, however, it’s important to remember the difference between antique and thrift stores. Although there are exceptions, most thrift shops tend to be stocked with items people simply didn’t want. This means that the quality is suspect, and the “history” behind each item is likely nothing special (unless you consider a vintage IKEA purchase a find). Antique stores, however, typically have higher standards on the items they’ll accept, making it easier for you to find high quality pieces.

In Brooklyn, we recommend City Foundry on Atlantic Avenue as one of the best antique and vintage stores in the area, featuring everything from furniture and appliances to light fixtures and decorative accents. Prices are a little steep here, but these items are certainly worth the added expense.

Additionally, a pair of stores called Brownstone Treasures and Yesterday’s News (both on Court Street) are known for their wide selection of affordable antiques, from Victorian era furniture to pulp fiction paperbacks and costume jewelry.

Last, period lovers will enjoy the Antique Room on Atlantic Avenue, which stocks 19th-century furniture, mirrors, lamps, and more.