These Valuable Vintage Estate Sale Finds Are Called The 'Chanel Of Trinket Boxes'

Trinkets, thingamabobs, baubles — there are all kinds of names for the tiny decorative items and sentimental jewelry pieces that adorn the shelves in your home. Whatever you choose to call them, having a good trinket box to keep all of your small bits and bobs safe and organized is always a good idea. In theory, any small, secure box will work, but if you want something that's as stylish (if not more) than the trinkets themselves, then a Limoges box is an attractive option.

Occasionally found at estate sales, these one-of-a-kind porcelain containers have been called the "Chanel of trinket boxes" by online influencers. Between the hand-painted designs, elegant clasp closures, and high price point, that's a pretty apt description. Limoges boxes come in all kinds of unique, miniature shapes including gingerbread houses, champagne bottles, coffee makers, and ice cream carts, just to name a few. In addition to the irresistibly unique designs, these made-in-France boxes have an equally unique and interesting history that makes each one all the more valuable. So whether you're looking for trinket storage or want to embrace some maximalist items to dress up your interior, the Limoges trinket boxes are perfect.

There are fake reproductions of Limoges boxes on the market. If you stumble upon an affordable reproduction at an estate sale and really only care about the aesthetics, then there's no problem taking one home. However, if you're after the authentic "Chanel of trinket boxes," then knowing how to identify the real thing is vital. 

The first thing to look for are the markings on the bottom of the trinket box. Authentic Limoges will typically have the words Limoges and France painted on in green, many also feature the artist's signature or a manufacturer's mark. If the artist's signature is there, take some time to research them to further confirm whether or not the box is authentic. Other factors such as quality of craftsmanship and an understanding of Limoges history are also helpful identifiers. To boost your chances of finding a Limoges box, familiarize yourself with a few expert tips for finding the best items at any estate sale before you start searching.

Speaking of history, these decorative porcelain boxes weren't always meant to hold trinkets. The boxes date back to the 18th century and historically, they've been used to hold snuff (powdered tobacco), pills, makeup, sewing materials, and other powders. Today, if you're lucky enough to score one, there's a range of ways to display these valuable boxes in your home. For example, you can use your Limoges box as a jewelry organizer that deserves to take center stage on your vanity. Alternatively, you can display the boxes on floating shelves, in glass displays, or on top of your dresser.