Liz Bailey

Liz has over 12 years experience working as a jewellery, watches, silver and designer specialist and department head in auctioneers throughout the Midlands and North West.

Inspired and attracted to the auction industry through a love of history, design and the stories behind precious objects, Liz began her specialist path in the heart Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, taking her gemmological qualifications whilst also completing a first-class hons MA in Antiques from the University of Central Lancashire.

Awarded her FGA and DGA qualifications through the Gemmological Association, she continued to play a pivotal role in the continuation of the field, acting as the Chairperson for the North West Gem-A for four years.

Committed to providing the most accurate, informed and current service possible to her clients, Liz continues to take part in courses, conferences and webinars on all things jewellery, watches, silver and handbags. Her experience, passion and keen eye all continue to ensure the most accurate, nuanced and detail oriented valuations possible.

Learn more about Liz:

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone looking to make an investment in an item?

Buy what you love!! This cannot be stressed enough! Buy the best you can for your budget – whether it be from a particular maker, a gemstone, a type of jewellery or a period of jewellery – and do not be scared to research and ask questions around the topic! I would absolutely recommend buying from a specialist auctioneers or reputable dealer, and of course gaining a second opinion from a specialist never hurts!

What’s your favourite part of working with antique jewellery/art/collectibles?

The variety of this work really is the best part! It is so fascinating meeting with clients and finding the pieces they have either acquired, collected or curated over the years! Seeing such a variety of pieces and delving into their provenance, craftsmanship, condition and subsequent value make this job thoroughly rewarding and enjoyable.

If you could own any piece of jewellery/artwork, what would it be and why?

I have always wanted to own a natural red spinel! I just love the intense saturation and vibrancy of these sought after gemstones which were commonly mistaken as rubies in centuries gone by (see – the Black Prince’s Ruby in the Imperial State Crown) – my ideal spinel would be set in a beautiful Deco ring mount with geometric diamond shoulders, ideally by Cartier! Nothing wrong with being specific, right?

Which era of history fascinates you the most, and why?

There is such a wide span of fabulous designs and makers when it comes to jewellery this changes for me on a weekly basis! Recently I have really enjoyed delving into Arts & Crafts jewellery – particularly as many of the key makers at this time were based locally in the Midlands, with some such as the Gaskins even teaching at the Birmingham School of Jewellery. With so many truly unique, imaginative and handcrafted pieces that were largely unsigned, this category in jewellery design is timelessly beautiful and endlessly fascinating!