Articles From The Experts

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall explores The Boodles National Gallery Collection, a special collection of jewellery created by Boodles to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the National Gallery. This collection draws inspiration from the artistic themes and techniques of famous paintings held in the gallery, translating them into exquisite jewellery pieces. The collection is...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the allure and sometimes questionable value of limited-edition timepieces, exploring why collectors are drawn to these exclusive pieces. Examples such as the pink Tudor Chronograph and the iconic Rolex Kermit Submariner illustrate how market trends, celebrity influence, and even a touch of nostalgia can drive up...

In this episode, Old Masters specialist David Dallas delves into the captivating life and legacy of Elisabetta Sirani, the renowned Italian Baroque painter who achieved extraordinary success in her tragically short lifetime. Discover how her father's connection to the esteemed Guido Reni shaped her artistic journey, leading her to become a celebrated figure in Bologna and beyond. Following her unt...

In this episode, silver & jewellery specialist Jenny Knott looks at the current silver market. While seemingly quiet, it is experiencing a resurgence due to rising bullion prices and increased interest in unique and antique pieces. Traditional uses for silver may be declining, but its industrial applications and growing popularity as an investment are driving up demand. This has led to higher...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell looks at some of the highlight lots from Sotheby's inaugural "Popular Culture" sale. This online auction saw everything from vintage Beatles memorabilia to a CyberMaster helmet straight out of Doctor Who! Buyers scrambled for the chance to own a piece of their favourite fictional worlds, and some real-life musical legends...

A recent discovery by one of our experienced valuers, Alastair Meiklejon during a walk-through valuation, led to an exceptional financial opportunity for our client, highlighting the crucial importance of the need for everyone to have a valuation and greater understanding of their assets. The item, part of an inherited collection, had never been insured and was presented to Alastair alongside seve...

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Baily looks at the largest gem-quality diamonds ever discovered. Recently unearthed, the Lucara diamond weighs an impressive 2,492 carats, but can’t match the 3,106 carat Cullinan diamond from 1905, still the world’s largest. However, advances in technology since the Cullinan’s time means CAD mapping of possible diamond cuts, and precision lase...

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Baily discusses the rising value of shipwrecked artifacts and jewellery. From pieces from the General Abbatucci cargo ship that sank in 1869, and a Waltham pocket watch worn by Titanic passenger John Jacob Astor, the sale prices for these items have increased significantly over time, with some selling for hundreds of thousands or even millions...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectors specialist Stephanie Connell shines a spotlight on renowned Kenyan-British ceramicist, Dame Magdalene Odundo. With her current exhibition at Houghton Hall, Norfolk coming to an end this month, Stephanie looks at her work, which often features narrative and figurative elements, and how she has used ceramics to explore themes such as slavery, protest,...

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall looks at the rare and valuable world of pink diamonds. These diamonds are prized for their vibrant colour, which is caused by crystal distortion rather than trace elements like other coloured diamonds. Pink diamonds are extremely scarce, with only 0.1% of the world's total diamond production classified as such. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pr...

In this episode, jewellery and watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a major jewellery trend in 2024, “divorce rings.” Supermodel Emily Ratajkowski helped popularise this trend after her divorce, by repurposing her diamond engagement ring into two separate pieces. But the concept of repurposing jewellery after divorce is not new; it dates back to the early 20th century. Women on both side of the...

In this episode, silver specialist Fiona Hamilton looks at the decadent silver ornamentation produced during the British Raj in India (1858-1947). The flourishing silver industry was driven by increasing demand from the British and a rising Indian middle class. Notable companies like P. Orr & Sons and Oomersee Mawjee became famous for their ornate silverware, featuring local styles such as the...

In this episode jewellery and watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the fascinating history and legal battle surrounding John Lennon’s Patek Philippe ref. 2499 watch. This rare and iconic timepiece, gifted to Lennon by Yoko Ono just months before his tragic death, has been embroiled in a nearly decade-long lawsuit. The watch, which mysteriously disappeared for 34 years before resurfacing in the h...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas reviews the results from the Old Master sales that took place in London in early July. The results show a market where desirable works achieve high sales, while less sought-after pieces struggle. Day sales at both Christie’s and Sotheby’s were underwhelming, with numerous unsold lots and modest totals. However, evening sales were significantly mo...

In this episode, silver and jewellery specialist Jenny Knott Jenny Knott provides an overview of the history and significance of Olympic medals. Medals often fetch high prices at auction, far exceeding their material worth. A reflection of the pinnacle of Olympic success and the personal value athletes place on their medals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, art & antiques specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the history and memorabilia of the Olympic Games, beginning with the first modern games held in Athens in 1896. She looks at the evolution of Olympic symbols, including the rings and torches, and the incorporation of art and design into the games as well as notable auctions of Olympic memorabilia, illustrating the enduring l...

The release of series 3 of Bridgerton on Netflix has provided viewers with a visual feast – brightly hued costumes, sensational floral displays, grand balls, outlandish wigs, and of course – some fabulous jewellery! In this episode jewellery & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the dazzling world of Georgian jewellery. She delves into the history and allure of parures, matching sets of jew...

Known for her pivotal role in the Punk movement, Vivienne Westwood’s journey was marked by her unconventional path and innovative designs that redefined British fashion. In this episode art & antiques specialist Stephanie Connell reviews Christie’s auction of Westwood’s personal collection, which featured many iconic pieces and raised funds for charities like Amnesty International, Medecins Sa...

In this episode jewellery, handbag and wristwatch specialist, Helen Doyle looks at the hottest beach bags of the season. With offerings from prestigious brands like Hermès, Christian Dior, Gucci, Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, she explores investment potential and the practicality of these sought after accessories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode art and antiques specialist Stephanie Connell delves into the rich history of tennis memorabilia, tracing the sport’s evolution from its 12th-century origins to the modern era through high-profile memorabilia sales. These items not only celebrate the sport’s legacy but also fetch impressive sums, reflecting their cultural and historical significance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/...

In this episode jewellery specialist, Aurélia Turrall looks at the jewellery worn by Princess Catherine at this year’s Trooping of the Colour. Despite undergoing treatment for cancer, Princess Catherine attended the celebrations marking the British Sovereign’s official birthday. It featured over 1400 parading soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians, culminating in an RAF fly-past. Hosted on Acast....

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon explores the historical and practical significance of various woods used in furniture making. He highlights specific types such as mahogany, walnut, oak, and rosewood, and looks at their unique characteristics and historical uses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Netflix's "Ripley," the Montblanc Meisterstück 149 pen stands out as a symbol of luxury. Montblanc, is renowned for its exquisite writing instruments and the brand's exclusivity soared in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming a favourite among celebrities and world leaders. Today, Montblanc offers both high-end collaborations, like the £1.1 million Boheme Royal, and more accessible options, such as the...

Some may shy away or feel too intimidated to attend a viewing at a world-renowned auction house, but here’s the secret… It’s open to everyone! And you should take advantage of these viewings. Think of it as a free museum entrance with endless exhibitions of exceptional goods, which have been, more often than not, hidden away from the public for generations. In this episode jewellery specialist Aur...

A red carpet is always a good opportunity to see some of the most beautiful haute couture and jewellery which are inaccessible to most of us. In this episode jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall, looks at some beautiful pieces of Tiffany & Co jewellery, worn by the Mistress of Ceremony of the 77th Cannes Festival, Camille Cottin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.