A ring thought to be costume jewellery has soared to success at auction after turning out to be a centuries-old antique gem from the Jane Austen era.
Its owner thought it was worth no more than £50 but it went on to sell for £1,000 at Hansons London in December 2021 – and commanded international interest.
It turned out to be a Georgian 18ct gold dress ring featuring a cushion-cut ruby within a glittering border of old-cut diamonds and yet more rubies. The Georgian period, made famous be author Jane Austen, lasted from 1714-1837 making the ring around 200 years old.
Chris Kirkham, associate director at Hansons London, said: “The seller brought the ring along for free valuation at the Normansfield Theatre in Teddington, an event we hold every Wednesday. She suggested it could go into auction for £50 but I’m always careful to check items like this – and the ring stood out.
“Our London vendor was amazed when we valued it at £300-£500. She thought it was paste. But that’s what we’re here for. Time and time again valuable items like this are found lost in collections of old costume jewellery.
“They are often inherited through the generations and get tucked away in drawers, sometimes for years. People genuinely can’t imagine they would be fortunate enough to own something of value. Consequently, they don’t bother to check, or simply forget they have them.
“That’s why we’re so pleased when people make the effort to come to see us, even if they’re unsure. We’re delighted when finds like this are made. The ring sold in our December Antiques Auction and sparked intense bidding. It delivered a lovely unexpected windfall for our client.
Free Valuations
“It’s always a good idea to get items you have tucked away at home valued. You just never know. A quick look through those drawers, attics or even under the bed could pave the way to an auction surprise like this one.”
Hansons London offers free valuations by appointment every Wednesday, 10am-4pm, at The Auction Centre, Normansfield Theatre, Teddington, London TW11 9PS. To book or find out more, call 07469 353 077 or email [email protected].
Jewellery and silver expert Kate Bliss also holds regular free valuation events at the Normansfield Theatre and will be available on February 2 and 23, 2022, 10am-4pm.
