An emotional rollercoaster unfolded on the Antiques Roadshow as a guest was left in tears after discovering the true value of her family jewellery set. Expert Susan Rumfitt was amazed by the stunning pieces presented before her, consisting of two necklaces, earrings, and a brooch. The guest revealed that the items were gifted to her by her maternal grandmother when she was just 18 years old, sending her mother into a state of horror when she got her ears pierced.
Susan Rumfitt couldn’t contain her excitement as she uncovered the beauty of the jewellery set, exclaiming, “I love it when I see two boxes and be able to reveal inside two beautiful necklaces and this one includes a pair of earrings and a brooch.” The guest, who believed the pieces were nothing more than ‘cheap’ costume jewellery, was taken aback when Susan revealed the true worth of the items. The first necklace, adorned with amethyst and white topaz stones, was estimated to fetch between £1,000 and £1,500 at auction, while the second garnet parure set was valued at an impressive £3,000 to £5,000 due to the popularity of Georgian jewellery.
As the guest processed the astonishing news, she couldn’t help but express her disbelief, shedding tears of joy at the unexpected revelation. Susan’s revelation left the guest questioning her previous assumptions about the jewellery, realizing the hidden value behind what she once considered mere costume pieces. Reflecting on the experience, the guest admitted, “I didn’t even realise what costume jewellery was. I didn’t think about jewellery, I wasn’t into jewellery.” The emotional moment on the Antiques Roadshow served as a reminder of the hidden treasures that can be found within family heirlooms, leaving the guest in awe of the unexpected discovery.
