De Vera (CLOSED)

Unless you have an enormous trust fund, you might want to leave your credit card at home when visiting this offshoot of vintage collector and jewelry designer Federico de Vera’s original Soho space—the quirky-cool jewelry and small, decorative antiques it stocks are breathtaking but oh-so-pricey. The cozy, high-ceilinged store has a museum-like vibe, thanks to curio cabinet displays and the stories behind each piece. Highlights include a one-of-a-kind necklace De Vera created from a collection of 18th- and 19th-century mourning brooches ($24,500) and a 19th-century Turkish silk needlework trim that he turned into a delicate choker by adorning it with emeralds and amethysts ($4,250). A pair of drop earrings De Vera made from 18th-century silver and rose gold necklace charms ($495) lies on the more affordable side of the spectrum. In addition to the impressive baubles, you’ll find interesting objets d’art like colorful, life-size insects handmade from Venetian glass ($78–$1,495) and gilded wood shapes carved by Colombian craftsmen ($795–$1,495).