Liz Bailey

Liz Bailey gained her gemmology and diamond grading qualifications from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, alongside achieving a first class Hons Master’s degree, specialising in antique sentimental jewellery. Having worked in across the auction industry for over twelve years, Liz has worked in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter as well as heading up departments and hosting sales in the heart of Cheshire. Passionate about jewellery and watches, Liz has handled, valued and sold a wide variety of collections – from the discerning collector to the wonderful discovery of treasures in client’s collections. Amongst her highlights is the discovery of a rare 16th century pocket watch, a 10 carat diamond, and stunning Art Deco jewels previously thought to be costume jewellery.

Liz is dedicated to furthering and continuing her specialism, and often attends exhibitions, conferences and talks on the subject. She is a member of the Society of Jewellery Historians, and attends industry gemmology events. She writes for a number of clients on the subjects, including features in Grazia, Harper’s Bazaar, and GQ Magazine.

Learn more about Liz Bailey:

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!