Antiques Roadshow guest issues three-word response as ring gets staggering value
Antiques Roadshow guest issues three-word response as ring gets staggering value
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During an intriguing episode of BBC’s Antiques Roadshow at Crystal Palace Park, viewers witnessed a procession of guests seeking appraisals for their treasures. Expert Joanna Hardy had an unexpected encounter when a woman and her daughter, who hadn't planned to consult her initially, approached due to the lack of a queue, presenting her with a ring for valuation. Intrigued, Joanna requested the backstory of the jewellery, only to be astonished by its discovery.
The guest said: "The ring was my mum's, we're pretty sure it was given to her by my late grandfather. We were helping her, we were clearing out stuff and in the sock drawer, we stumbled across this ring that was wrapped up in a sock.". Joanna was left almost speechless, marvelling at how close the diamond ring came to being lost or accidentally donated. She replied: "No! I don't believe that! It could've gone in the washing machine! Given to a charity maybe? Oh my goodness.".
Stunned at the potential near miss, the BBC specialist couldn't hide her amazement, as she grasped the gravity of the situation. The woman clarified that her mother kept the ring shrouded within the sock as a cunning way to ensure it didn’t go astray, reports the Liverpool Echo. Joanna was clearly impressed with the ring, describing it as 'superb'. Shedding light on its features, she added: "It's made in platinum, it's about 1915. The diamond is what we call a transitional cut.".
The BBC expert shared with the two women her preference for a less brash cut of diamonds, citing their ring's sophisticated nature. As she delved into details, Joanna remarked: "It is nearly four carats, so it's a really large size." Nonetheless, she pointed out a slight natural flaw within the stone, something not caused by the owners. On further examination, Joanna observed that one of the claws needed repair due to becoming loose. She predicted: "If you were at auction, this would be in the region of £20,000.".
The revelation left the lady astounded as she issued a three-word response. She commented: "Wow, oh gosh!". She told her daughter they better get that claw fixed quickly. Joanna couldn't help but laud the piece again, saying: "It is such a stunning, stunning ring. It's absolutely lovely.". The duo remained in a state of amazement, uttering 'wow' amidst Joanna's commentary. Antiques Roadshow is available to watch on BBC IPlayer.
