A guest on the beloved BBC programme Antiques Roadshow was rendered almost speechless after learning her unique collection of jewellery was worth an astonishing sum. The moment of high drama unfolded during the show's visit to Cromford Mills in Derbyshire, which aired on Sunday, 18 January.
A Remarkable Collection Revealed
Presenting her items to expert Joanna Hardy, the guest showed a distinctive array of gold and silver pieces, including a bracelet and a brooch. She explained that she had bought the first piece 35 years ago, believing it to be costume jewellery adorned with diamantes. "I just thought it was diamantes and posh costume jewellery," she confessed. The jewellery was inscribed with the name George Weil, whom Hardy identified as a sculptor.
Visibly impressed, Joanna Hardy exclaimed, "My goodness. My heart jumped when I saw these pieces." She noted the items were "so unusual" and went against the grain of conventional wearable fashion. The expert then revealed the stunning truth: the pieces were crafted from 18-carat gold and platinum.
The Eye-Watering Valuation
The guest disclosed she had paid around £1,500 for the collection, which she considered "quite a lot" at the time. However, she was completely unprepared for the modern valuation. Hardy began by stating that one item alone would be worth approximately £15,000 today.
The guest's reaction was instantaneous and dramatic. "Oh never," she cried, her jaw dropping as the studio audience gasped. She then joked, "Sorry I nearly swore," hastily covering her mouth in disbelief. "Really!? My goodness me," she added.
Breaking Down the Fortune
Joanna Hardy then provided a detailed breakdown of the collection's value:
- The brooch was valued between £5,000 and £7,000.
- A second brooch could fetch between £3,000 and £5,000.
- A "lovely" ring was given a valuation of £2,500.
This brought the total estimated value for the entire collection to a staggering £25,000. The stunned guest could only repeat, "I just can't believe it." This remarkable segment was a highlight of the episode, showcasing the life-changing surprises the show is famous for.
Antiques Roadshow continues to air every Sunday at 7pm on BBC One.
