Sarasota is a bright fusion of sparkling beaches and bays, art, culture and history. But antiques mavens know this gem has yet another facet. The area holds a treasure trove of vintage finds in not one, but several districts known as "Antique Row."

Purveyors range from non-profit thrift and consignment shops to high-end art and antiques galleries. Some are located in beautiful and popular historic neighborhoods; others are tucked away off the beaten path.

The Women's Exchange consignment shop on Orange Avenue is filled with recycled merchandise, from very old to almost new. Find art and antiques, rows of furniture, racks of clothing and shelves crowded with fine china, figurines, crystal, collectibles

Find antique furniture in any one of the Sarasota area's "Antique Rows." Courtesy of Dick Dickinson

and household items, including garden accessories and décor. The common thread in this diverse collection is quality... this non-profit entity has very discriminating taste.

The Women's Exchange donates proceeds from sales to worthy area causes, as does Designing Women, another high-end consignment shop. Located on North Tamiami Trail, this gallery of fashions features designer and couture clothing, jewelry and accessories, as well as a monthly salon show series, with a box lunch for $12.00.

Wander down Fruitville Road from Central Avenue to Orange Avenue to explore a shopping area saturated with shops brimming with bargains. The Fruitville Antique District & Circle of Friends is a district of 14 unique shops featuring mid-century collectibles, yarn and knitting services, linens, folk art, architectural and patio items, jewelry of all kinds and more.

SPARCC'S Treasure Chest has great buys on consignment and donation furniture, antiques and collectibles and supports victims of domestic violence.

Very much "in" the way are the shops at Herald Square in downtown Sarasota. This historic district is loaded with one-of-a-kind antiques that even the most skilled shopper will appreciate. The quaint storefronts and diverse selections are so inviting, you'll wonder where to start.

Jack Vinales Antiques is a good place. Jack is as knowledgeable as he is personable and can help you in your quest for American Art Pottery, all things Art Deco, Bakelite, Jewelry and classic mid-century furniture. Sarasota Trading Company justifiably boasts having "everything... the unusual new and old."

Pineapple Bay Trading Company specializes in Asian collectibles as well as unique jewelry, artifacts, antiques, gifts, furniture, silver and gold.

Last but definitely not least are the art and antiques galleries galore along elegant Palm Avenue. Here you can feast your eyes upon a plethora of fine European and American antiques, and will be wondering once more, where to begin. Peruse Coco Palm Gallery Art & Antiques and William Hartman Antique Prints/Fine Framing. Both shops display high-quality art, antiques and collectibles.

Located north on Central Ave. Architectural Salvage is one interesting shopping experience you can't miss. Here you can find antique and unique building materials, home décor, and gifts. With an ever-changing inventory it is like shopping in a museum.

Among many other antiques malls in the area is Savantiques in Osprey. This one features 30 dealers offering 19th century period furniture, art deco, primitives, fine crystal and china, books and more.

A little farther south in Venice on Route 41 is The Elephant's Trunk Thrift Shop and Salvation Army Thrift Store - an old standby - where you never know when one man's "junk" is actually a priceless treasure.

The quaint city of Venice is a treasure in itself. It is graced by Northern Italian architecture and beautifully landscaped boulevards dating back to the original city plans of 1925. Here you'll find antique shops both north and south of downtown as well as on Venice Avenue and "Antique Row" at Miami Avenue, both in the heart of the village.