A Buying Trip to France — Silver Jewelry and Antique Tableware Found at Flea Markets

Last month, I traveled to France on a buying trip.

This time, I spent most of my time in Paris, visiting various flea markets and antique shops.

French flea markets each have their own character. Some are beautifully arranged, with carefully curated displays, while others are filled with an eclectic mix of furniture, tableware, jewelry, and vintage clothing, piled together in no particular order.

There is a certain pleasure in taking time to appreciate objects thoughtfully arranged, just as there is in discovering something unexpected among a seemingly endless collection of things.

Both are part of what makes exploring flea markets so special.

During this trip, I found myself particularly drawn to silver jewelry.

The softly tarnished tones that develop over time, and the subtle irregularities in form that reveal traces of craftsmanship.

I selected pieces that are understated yet have a quiet presence when worn.

Of course, the age and maker of a piece are important, but I also consider how naturally it might complement a contemporary wardrobe, and whether it is something I would still want to keep close many years from now.

These are the qualities I value when selecting pieces for OLIM.

I also brought back a small selection of tableware, including plates and other vessels.

Each antique piece carries subtle traces of its past.

Rather than elaborate decoration, I was drawn to pieces with a beautifully aged patina and a quiet, understated presence.

Colors and textures softened by time, slight imperfections in shape, and the gentle irregularities of hand-painted details.

It is these subtle qualities, rarely found in new objects, that I find especially beautiful.

Pieces that are lovely simply placed on their own.

Objects that can be used not only as tableware, but also as trays for jewelry and other small belongings.

Something that blends naturally into everyday life, yet quietly catches your attention from time to time.

I was looking for objects with this kind of understated beauty.

Objects once used somewhere in France decades ago may now find their way across borders and become part of someone else's everyday life.

Working with vintage pieces, I often find myself drawn to this quiet continuity of time.

On this trip, I was fortunate to discover several pieces that I hope will continue to be cherished for many years to come.

They will gradually be introduced through our online shop and showroom.

I hope you will enjoy taking your time exploring the pieces I discovered in France.