You need to dig through a lot at a thrift store

Thrift stores require much more digging and rummaging through items than an antique shop will.  Thrift stores mostly consist of items that are donated to them and because of this, they have a lot more junk items that you will have to sort through to find anything of real value.  In an antique store like Judy's Antique and Estate Jewelry in Fort Myers, most items have some intrinsic value.  Now this is not always the case, some thrift stores will be set up great and then tend to place their nicer things in a grouping or area.

There is more value at antique shops

This means items at an antique shop like Judy's Antique and Estate Jewelry will generally cost more.  Thrift stores are designed to move items, so merchandise is priced to sell and usually is never worth the value of the item researched when a price point is reached.  Now the opposite is true of antique shops.

Antique stores may allow bargaining

Another difference between thrift stores and antique shops is thrift stores are set on pricing while at antique shops the opening for bargaining is usually available.  It can’t hurt to ask in either case, but you will tend to have more flexibility in an antique shop.

Antique shops hold history

Dealers like Sal Lanzieri at Judy's Antique and Estate Jewelry usually know a lot about their pieces and their history.  Sal can usually tell you where on item is from and when and perhaps a story about the item.  Sal loves stories and history. It is definitely more fascinating to shop at his antique and estate jewelry shop.  The history of an item alone is worth the trip alone in many cases. While thrift stores can be fun and inviting (many of us love the hunt) you are more likely going to find items of value at antique shops.  Thrift store items typically are donated and also not cleaned or repaired so you are going to get a far better deal.  Antique dealers like Sal, have to hunt for their inventory, often driving for hours to find items of value for their location.  They then have to clean and repair the merchandise as well as research its value. If you love antiques and want to utilize them in your home, hit both thrift and antique stores, but have realistic expectations for each.  For unique and authentic items, your local antique shop in Fort Myers is always your best bet. Come in and take a look around, you won't be sorry you did. And remember, ASK FOR SAL!