0:00:02 > 0:00:04Over the years on Flog It, we've travelled the length
0:00:04 > 0:00:06and breadth of the British Isles,
0:00:06 > 0:00:10rummaging through thousands of bags and boxes along the way.
0:00:10 > 0:00:12You've brought in something rather special, haven't you?
0:00:12 > 0:00:15I think between £350-£500.
0:00:15 > 0:00:19We've seen everything from corkscrews to costume jewellery,
0:00:19 > 0:00:21and we've had some breathtaking results,
0:00:21 > 0:00:23as we put those items under the hammer.
0:00:23 > 0:00:25- Yes!- Wow!
0:00:25 > 0:00:28Flog it has taught us to sort out our Treen from our Troika,
0:00:28 > 0:00:31and inspired thousands of collectors along the way.
0:00:31 > 0:00:35In this series we want to share that inside knowledge with you.
0:00:35 > 0:00:37Welcome to Flog It Trade Secrets.
0:01:05 > 0:01:09On today's show it's all about looking good, and when you want
0:01:09 > 0:01:13to dress to impress, the jewellery you wear is crucial,
0:01:13 > 0:01:17so today we're giving you the lowdown on antique accessories.
0:01:17 > 0:01:20That is a nice watch.
0:01:20 > 0:01:22- Is it a military watch? - A military Air Force watch.
0:01:22 > 0:01:28We'll see some of the most stylish bling we've seen on Flog It over the years.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31This was pretty much nearly the best one I've ever seen.
0:01:31 > 0:01:35We'll be reliving some glittering successes at auction.
0:01:35 > 0:01:38Yes! What a turn of profit.
0:01:38 > 0:01:42And our experts will be imparting their nuggets of wisdom.
0:01:42 > 0:01:44Always buy the best.
0:01:44 > 0:01:45Never compromise.
0:01:45 > 0:01:47If it's a great big diamond ring,
0:01:47 > 0:01:50the diamond is always going to be valuable.
0:01:50 > 0:01:56Stick to the basics of quality, maker and style or design.
0:01:59 > 0:02:01Who doesn't like a bit of bling?
0:02:01 > 0:02:05On many occasions it's great to put on a brooch or a diamond necklace
0:02:05 > 0:02:09or maybe a tie pin and some cuff links to make a bit of a splash.
0:02:09 > 0:02:11Over the years on this show, you've brought us
0:02:11 > 0:02:14thousands of items of jewellery to our valuation days.
0:02:14 > 0:02:17More than likely it's because you don't like it any more and
0:02:17 > 0:02:20don't want to wear it, it doesn't suit you, it's gone out of fashion.
0:02:20 > 0:02:25After all, who would wear a ruby necklace in a supermarket?
0:02:25 > 0:02:28But how can you tell your diamonds from a bit of paste,
0:02:28 > 0:02:31and what should you look for when you go out buying?
0:02:31 > 0:02:36In 2008, Bob brought in an item which got Michael all aflutter.
0:02:36 > 0:02:40The dragonfly brooch was absolutely gorgeous.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43This was pretty much nearly the best one I've ever seen.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46The minute I saw it I thought, I'm having this.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48I think Thomas Plant was with me.
0:02:48 > 0:02:52I elbowed him out of the way discreetly. It was a wonderful thing.
0:02:52 > 0:02:54It's really a family heirloom.
0:02:54 > 0:02:57It belonged to my mother-in-law
0:02:57 > 0:03:00and eventually it was handed down to my wife.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03Was it something that was kept in a bank vault
0:03:03 > 0:03:05or was it worn on high days and holidays?
0:03:05 > 0:03:11I never saw my wife wear it, ever. It was kept in the safe.
0:03:11 > 0:03:13So often the way with these things.
0:03:13 > 0:03:16But it is a tremendously delicate brooch.
0:03:16 > 0:03:21Firstly, we've got the fantastic detail of the workmanship involved.
0:03:21 > 0:03:24This goes back to a period in Victorian jewellery,
0:03:24 > 0:03:28about 1870-1880, where there was a fad for insects.
0:03:28 > 0:03:30There was a whole vogue for these things.
0:03:30 > 0:03:34But there are a couple of features that are more unusual
0:03:34 > 0:03:37with your dragonfly brooch than many I see.
0:03:37 > 0:03:42The first thing is that normally the wings are either silver or enamel.
0:03:44 > 0:03:50It is most unusual to get, in this case aquamarines cut to fit in.
0:03:50 > 0:03:53We've got the body highlighted with little diamond chips
0:03:53 > 0:03:56and the tail running down.
0:03:56 > 0:03:58Sadly, a couple have fallen out
0:03:58 > 0:04:00but that's no big job to have those replaced.
0:04:00 > 0:04:02I see.
0:04:02 > 0:04:05I wasn't really disappointed that the diamonds were missing because
0:04:05 > 0:04:09I did very briefly used to work for a diamond merchant, and those
0:04:09 > 0:04:13diamonds to replace were only about £2 or £3 each.
0:04:13 > 0:04:19And someone to do the work, maybe £30-£40. It wasn't a big job.
0:04:19 > 0:04:23It's only when the stones start to become large that they become expensive,
0:04:23 > 0:04:25and they were just very small chips,
0:04:25 > 0:04:27Little rose cuts along the tail.
0:04:27 > 0:04:31We've got the edges of the wings highlighted in diamonds as well.
0:04:31 > 0:04:36Little eyes, they are rubies. But all of this work is mounted in silver.
0:04:36 > 0:04:37Really?
0:04:37 > 0:04:42But the body of the dragonfly and the base of it is all in gold.
0:04:42 > 0:04:45It's set on a trembleuse -
0:04:45 > 0:04:46a collection of springs
0:04:46 > 0:04:51that allow the jewel to move and shimmer and tremble.
0:04:51 > 0:04:55If you turn it over you can see the tremendous workmanship
0:04:55 > 0:04:57that's gone into this.
0:04:57 > 0:04:59It had a triple trembleuse.
0:04:59 > 0:05:03It's difficult to do, so to do it three times rather than once
0:05:03 > 0:05:06is just an indication of the quality of it.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09Sometimes these brooches do tremendously well at auction.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11I think we've got to bear in mind
0:05:11 > 0:05:14that this is probably the best one I've seen.
0:05:14 > 0:05:17So I think we should push the boat out
0:05:17 > 0:05:22and put £2,000-£2,500 as an estimate on it
0:05:22 > 0:05:25and put a fixed reserve of £2,000.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27For such a stunning piece,
0:05:27 > 0:05:30that presents good value to anyone at the auction.
0:05:30 > 0:05:34Who knows, two people might battle it away to well above that.
0:05:34 > 0:05:36Let's hope it's a lively auction.
0:05:36 > 0:05:39Quality you judge by manufacture.
0:05:39 > 0:05:44You look at the object and think how difficult it is to make it.
0:05:44 > 0:05:47All of that gold work had to be pierced out by hand.
0:05:47 > 0:05:49Then the silver had to be laid on top,
0:05:49 > 0:05:52then the stones have to be selected and set.
0:05:52 > 0:05:54It's an enormous amount of work.
0:05:54 > 0:05:57A lot of the finest antiques, you couldn't make them
0:05:57 > 0:05:59today for the price you pay.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03That is where you recognise the quality of things.
0:06:03 > 0:06:06So, how did it do at auction?
0:06:06 > 0:06:08I had a chat to the auctioneer just before the sale started.
0:06:08 > 0:06:11He agrees with the valuation, but said brooches aren't fashionable.
0:06:11 > 0:06:14Let's find out what the bidders think in Cirencester.
0:06:14 > 0:06:16It's going under the hammer now.
0:06:16 > 0:06:20We are now onto Lot 365, the dragonfly brooch.
0:06:20 > 0:06:25I can start you here at 1,550, on the book at 1,550.
0:06:25 > 0:06:27He's got a commission bid.
0:06:27 > 0:06:291,600. And 50.
0:06:29 > 0:06:311,700. And 50.
0:06:31 > 0:06:341,800. And 50.
0:06:34 > 0:06:371,900. And 50.
0:06:37 > 0:06:382,000.
0:06:38 > 0:06:39We've sold it.
0:06:39 > 0:06:42The book's out at 2,000, 2,100 now.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45At 2,000 on the left.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48At 2,000. 2,100 can I say now?
0:06:48 > 0:06:51At £2,000, are you sure now?
0:06:51 > 0:06:54It's on my left at 2,000. All done.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56BANGS GAVEL
0:06:56 > 0:07:00- Super result. Fantastic. - Just hit the reserve. That's good.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02- Put it there.- I'm pleased with that.
0:07:02 > 0:07:06This brooch was a particularly fine example of 19th-century jewellery,
0:07:06 > 0:07:07and it flew in the saleroom.
0:07:07 > 0:07:11However, there are still great finds to be made from this period.
0:07:11 > 0:07:14If you go back to 19th, late 18th century jewellery,
0:07:14 > 0:07:16that has fallen out of favour.
0:07:16 > 0:07:19And often that is gem set and beautiful quality.
0:07:19 > 0:07:23So I think stop looking at the 20th century and go back
0:07:23 > 0:07:26and look at the 18th and 19th century and you'll find some bargains.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28Quite right, Michael.
0:07:28 > 0:07:31Taste is always changing, so buy pieces which are out of vogue
0:07:31 > 0:07:35to see a hefty return when they are back in favour.
0:07:35 > 0:07:41And a great tip to remember is small gems can be replaced relatively cheaply.
0:07:41 > 0:07:44Repairing damage could help the value if you are selling.
0:07:44 > 0:07:48But bling isn't just for the ladies.
0:07:48 > 0:07:52If you're going to buy a watch, what name springs to mind? Rolex.
0:07:52 > 0:07:55And Harry, from Barnsley, he brought in a Rolex.
0:07:55 > 0:07:58But what I loved about it is that it was understated.
0:07:58 > 0:08:00That's a sign of real class, isn't it?
0:08:00 > 0:08:04You go and buy these watches today, they cost you thousands
0:08:04 > 0:08:06and thousands of pounds.
0:08:06 > 0:08:09Diamonds all around them, mother of pearl faces.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12- They're not very subtle, are they? - No, they're not.
0:08:12 > 0:08:14I'm going to talk about it in a minute,
0:08:14 > 0:08:16but tell me the history of this little piece first.
0:08:16 > 0:08:20My father inherited it and it's come to me after his death.
0:08:20 > 0:08:23- I've never worn it. - Came down through the family.
0:08:23 > 0:08:25- And you don't want it, you want to sell it?- Yes.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28Henry, that would break my heart to sell that.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31With an item of luxury you don't always need a brand name,
0:08:31 > 0:08:32the quality will out.
0:08:32 > 0:08:35And in this instance, the quality just shouted at you.
0:08:35 > 0:08:40Then when the name Rolex is revealed, well, you can't go wrong, can you?
0:08:40 > 0:08:44- Do you know how old it is? - I believe it's about 1930.
0:08:44 > 0:08:45Let's have a look.
0:08:45 > 0:08:49- There are import marks. You reckon it was 1930?- I think so.
0:08:49 > 0:08:51I think you're probably three years out.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54There are import marks here for Glasgow 1927.
0:08:54 > 0:08:57- The bracelet... - It's just a cheap one.
0:08:57 > 0:08:59..is clearly a cheap replacement.
0:08:59 > 0:09:02That, with a nice strap on it, nice, black strap,
0:09:02 > 0:09:06- I would love to own that. - Oh, well, there we are.
0:09:06 > 0:09:09And if that were in my family there's no way I'd be selling it.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- So, there's only one thing we haven't discussed.- Yes. What do you reckon?
0:09:13 > 0:09:17I think this sort of retro look,
0:09:17 > 0:09:20vintage look is really popular at the moment.
0:09:20 > 0:09:24I think that we can put an auction estimate on that of £200-£400.
0:09:24 > 0:09:28- Oh, right. - We'll put a reserve on it of £200.
0:09:28 > 0:09:29I'm sure it will do well.
0:09:29 > 0:09:32What are you going to spend the money on if it makes £200-300?
0:09:32 > 0:09:34The car needs a service.
0:09:34 > 0:09:38How can you trade a Rolex for a car service?!
0:09:39 > 0:09:43Did the watch's quality shine through at auction?
0:09:43 > 0:09:46Lot number 275, the gentleman's Rolex.
0:09:46 > 0:09:52Silver case wristwatch, import mark for 1927. Another beauty.
0:09:52 > 0:09:54- Lots of interest on the book.- Good!
0:09:54 > 0:09:56Must start this one at £420.
0:09:56 > 0:10:01420. I'll take 440 elsewhere.
0:10:01 > 0:10:04440, I'm looking for.
0:10:04 > 0:10:07This one's going to sell.
0:10:07 > 0:10:09Anyone fancy 440?
0:10:09 > 0:10:11With me at 420.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13Hammer's dropping.
0:10:13 > 0:10:14BANGS GAVEL
0:10:14 > 0:10:17Brilliant, we've done it. Above top end, anyway. It's a good result.
0:10:17 > 0:10:20Get the car fixed. Thanks very much.
0:10:20 > 0:10:25£420 was a good result for a watch which wasn't rated by its owner.
0:10:25 > 0:10:27You know, we sold that watch in the dim and distant past,
0:10:27 > 0:10:30but I think there's a chance today that would make more money.
0:10:30 > 0:10:33These things are very, very fashionable.
0:10:33 > 0:10:36The thing about Rolex is it doesn't always say Rolex on the face.
0:10:36 > 0:10:38What you've got to do is open the back up
0:10:38 > 0:10:40and it will say Rolex stamped on the movement.
0:10:40 > 0:10:42So you might find a watch that's got nothing on the front
0:10:42 > 0:10:44but it's got Rolex on the back.
0:10:44 > 0:10:46Just bear that in mind when you're looking.
0:10:46 > 0:10:50Good-quality watches can be a sound investment.
0:10:50 > 0:10:54Other names to look out for include Breitling, Omega,
0:10:54 > 0:10:56Raymond Weil and Cartier.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59Men's jewellery can have dips in popularity.
0:10:59 > 0:11:02But if you stick to quality, you generally can't go wrong -
0:11:02 > 0:11:06as Thomas discovered in Dunstable back in 2007.
0:11:06 > 0:11:10Margaret, I think I've found something really quite delightful.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14I must admit, I'm quite attached to them, as you can see.
0:11:14 > 0:11:17What first attracted me to these cuff links were the size.
0:11:17 > 0:11:20They were really oversized for your cuff.
0:11:20 > 0:11:24They had this offset, beautiful pearl, this Baroque pearl.
0:11:24 > 0:11:26So the mixture of the very yellow gold
0:11:26 > 0:11:30and then the pure whiteness of the pearl worked brilliantly.
0:11:30 > 0:11:33I think if one was going to wear a pair of very glitzy
0:11:33 > 0:11:37and showy cuff links, I mean they're not everyday,
0:11:37 > 0:11:40they were sort of dress, those were the ones to have.
0:11:40 > 0:11:43They were a gift to my partner from his brother.
0:11:43 > 0:11:47- His brother actually made them. - Where was he from?
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- They're both from Germany.- And when do you think these were made?
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- Probably about 30 to 35 years ago. - Looking at the mid-'70s.- Yes.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56They look very '70s, don't they, very retro cool.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59I'd put it more sort of Art Deco style.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01Yes, I know what you're thinking, Art Deco,
0:12:01 > 0:12:04because they're geometric and they've got the offset of the pearl.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07But I think we're looking at the more modernist, retro style,
0:12:07 > 0:12:09the postmodern style.
0:12:09 > 0:12:13On Flog It we see a plethora of items from all different ages.
0:12:13 > 0:12:16And yet we are very used to looking at the 20th century.
0:12:16 > 0:12:19You're looking at big names.
0:12:19 > 0:12:23But when a piece is Artisan-made, it still has a value.
0:12:23 > 0:12:27Unfortunately, rules are rules and I can't bid for items at auction
0:12:27 > 0:12:31- when we take them in for Flog It. - That's a shame.- It's a huge shame.
0:12:31 > 0:12:34- I believe that £200-£300 is a sensible estimate.- Yes.
0:12:34 > 0:12:37As regards to a reserve, which I believe it should have, don't you?
0:12:37 > 0:12:41- Oh, I think so.- I think £200 with discretion would be very sensible.
0:12:41 > 0:12:44- Yes, I agree.- You agree, brilliant.
0:12:44 > 0:12:46I'm now going to take them off.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- We'll put them into the auction for you.- Thank you very much.- Thank you.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52When you're looking at the late 20th century designer items,
0:12:52 > 0:12:56anything retro or vintage, what one has to look out for
0:12:56 > 0:12:59from a collector's point of view is names.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02The exception to the rule were these cuff links.
0:13:02 > 0:13:04They were made by a member of the family.
0:13:04 > 0:13:05There are great artists out there
0:13:05 > 0:13:09but they had a good metal content in them.
0:13:09 > 0:13:11But my advice is to go for the big names,
0:13:11 > 0:13:13because you'll never go wrong.
0:13:13 > 0:13:17But without a designer name, did the cuff links struggle at auction?
0:13:17 > 0:13:20- We've got £200-£300 put on these, haven't we?- We have.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23By our expert, Thomas, who would have loved to have worn them today.
0:13:23 > 0:13:25- Yes. - They are smashing, aren't they?
0:13:25 > 0:13:29Now we have a pair of continental gold Baroque pearl-set cuff links.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31Where do we go, £200 for them?
0:13:31 > 0:13:33Do we go 200? Yes, we'll start then.
0:13:33 > 0:13:34100.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36110. I bid 20 for you, sir.
0:13:36 > 0:13:37And 30 and 40.
0:13:37 > 0:13:39150. 160.
0:13:39 > 0:13:40Yes, we're getting there.
0:13:40 > 0:13:42170. 180.
0:13:42 > 0:13:46190. Are you going to be 200?
0:13:46 > 0:13:48At 200, we're bid now.
0:13:48 > 0:13:50£200 for those.
0:13:50 > 0:13:52At £200. 10, is it?
0:13:52 > 0:13:53210. 220.
0:13:53 > 0:13:55You're out.
0:13:55 > 0:13:57At 220 the room is out.
0:13:57 > 0:13:59220, I'm selling.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02220, make no mistake, you're out.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06I sell them for £220.
0:14:07 > 0:14:08< Result!
0:14:08 > 0:14:11- That's good, that's good. - Good estimate, Thomas.
0:14:11 > 0:14:14So remember, ideally look out for names, but a well-made,
0:14:14 > 0:14:16quality piece by an unknown maker
0:14:16 > 0:14:19can sometimes do the business.
0:14:20 > 0:14:24And precious metals and precious stones will always be attractive...
0:14:24 > 0:14:26even if you don't plan to wear them.
0:14:26 > 0:14:31Andrew, you're a big lad, what are you doing with a girl's bracelet?
0:14:31 > 0:14:33I found it at a boot sale last year.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35- Did you?- And...
0:14:35 > 0:14:39I know it's going to be cheap then, when I hear that, how cheap?
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- It was a pound.- A pound?!
0:14:42 > 0:14:46When I heard he paid a pound, it's a mixed emotion, actually.
0:14:46 > 0:14:48Part of it is a slight jealousy, not really.
0:14:48 > 0:14:53It was a bit mean to knock it down from £2 to £1, I thought.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56But there's a dealer in all of us, I think.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59I suppose at the time you didn't necessarily realise that
0:14:59 > 0:15:01it was a row of 39 diamonds?
0:15:01 > 0:15:05It was very dirty when I first bought it and it didn't look expensive.
0:15:05 > 0:15:09I knew it was gold but I didn't think the gems would be diamonds.
0:15:09 > 0:15:11Was it mixed up with a load of rubbish?
0:15:11 > 0:15:15It was with costume jewellery, bits missing out of them and all sorts.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18So I threw it in the door pocket of my car when I left,
0:15:18 > 0:15:20and it stayed there for about three months.
0:15:20 > 0:15:22Then one day you decided to have it looked at?
0:15:22 > 0:15:25I was cleaning the car out and found it again.
0:15:25 > 0:15:27I thought, "The stones look a bit sparkly in it."
0:15:27 > 0:15:29But didn't think they'd be diamonds.
0:15:29 > 0:15:31They do look a bit sparkly, don't they?
0:15:31 > 0:15:33They do now, it was cleaned up very well.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36Generally speaking, if it's mounted in gold,
0:15:36 > 0:15:40nine, 18 carat or higher, then it's almost always going to be a diamond,
0:15:40 > 0:15:43because you wouldn't put a paste into an expensive gold mount.
0:15:43 > 0:15:47There is 39 diamonds which means a total carat weight
0:15:47 > 0:15:50of about 3.9 carats.
0:15:50 > 0:15:54- Yeah, it's on the clasp. - Is it marked on there as well?
0:15:54 > 0:15:59- On the end of the clasp, that bit just there.- Oh, I see, 3.93.
0:15:59 > 0:16:03And it's 18-carat gold, import marks for 1997.
0:16:03 > 0:16:08So it's modern, but very wearable, isn't it? I would have thought, anyway.
0:16:08 > 0:16:13It doesn't necessarily have to be old to be valuable in all cases.
0:16:13 > 0:16:17But especially in jewellery, old-cut diamonds often had carbon
0:16:17 > 0:16:20inclusions and flaws, it's all to do with the clarity of the diamond.
0:16:20 > 0:16:23And how wearable it's considered and how fashionable.
0:16:23 > 0:16:27If we pitch it at 600 to 800, it shows the buyers it's on the market,
0:16:27 > 0:16:31it's here to sell and hopefully that'll get a few people in after it.
0:16:31 > 0:16:35So, if we put a £600 reserve, if it doesn't make that,
0:16:35 > 0:16:38you can have it back, because it's got to be worth that.
0:16:38 > 0:16:42But being modern, did it tempt the buyers at auction?
0:16:42 > 0:16:47The diamond bracelet, a lot of diamonds in here at £600 bid.
0:16:47 > 0:16:48At £600 I have.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50Nice bid. it's in, you've done it.
0:16:50 > 0:16:54Where's 20, at 620, 640, 660...
0:16:54 > 0:16:58..660, 680. 700, 720.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00At £720 now, where is 40?
0:17:00 > 0:17:02< Get in there!
0:17:02 > 0:17:04At 720 now, and 40 do you like?
0:17:04 > 0:17:09At 720, a lot of diamonds in this lot at £720.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11It is going at 720...
0:17:11 > 0:17:14Yes! What a turn of profit.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16£1 into 720.
0:17:17 > 0:17:19What an incredible result!
0:17:19 > 0:17:22It just goes to show there are still gems to be found
0:17:22 > 0:17:24if you rummage in the right bags and boxes.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28Here's what we've learned so far.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30Give things a good clean to see what you've got.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32Have them checked over by a jeweller,
0:17:32 > 0:17:35and choose things which are wearable.
0:17:35 > 0:17:39If you think it's stylish, others probably will too.
0:17:39 > 0:17:41If you're buying a diamond, always buy over a carat
0:17:41 > 0:17:43if your pocket can afford it.
0:17:43 > 0:17:47Because if you buy over a carat, the single stone, it will always
0:17:47 > 0:17:50retain its value throughout the whole of its life it's with you.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53Diamonds may be for ever, but what do our experts think is
0:17:53 > 0:17:57a good investment if you can't stretch to precious stones?
0:17:57 > 0:18:01I think at the moment going to an auction and buying a big job lot of
0:18:01 > 0:18:05costume jewellery, you can pick them up for just a few pounds and then
0:18:05 > 0:18:09go out and sell them and you'll make yourself some serious money.
0:18:09 > 0:18:13Costume jewellery has risen loads recently in the last few years.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16There is value in costume jewellery that maybe
0:18:16 > 0:18:18we used to discard in the past.
0:18:18 > 0:18:22So, the consensus is be on the lookout for costume jewellery.
0:18:28 > 0:18:32Andrew certainly got lucky with his boot sale bargain,
0:18:32 > 0:18:35but how do you recognise a precious stone
0:18:35 > 0:18:38in a bag of costume jewellery?
0:18:38 > 0:18:42A few years back, I learnt the trade secrets you need to know.
0:18:42 > 0:18:45They say diamonds are a girl's best friend and I'd love to buy
0:18:45 > 0:18:49this one for my girlfriend, but how can I tell it's a quality piece?
0:18:49 > 0:18:50And what should I be paying?
0:18:54 > 0:18:58There's an expert in this saleroom who's hot on his rocks.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01He's a specialist in valuing precious stones
0:19:01 > 0:19:03and his name is Jethro Marles.
0:19:03 > 0:19:06Jethro, this one's not a diamond, this one's a huge, great big rock.
0:19:06 > 0:19:08I think if I bought something like that,
0:19:08 > 0:19:11I'd be paying it off on HP for the rest of my life.
0:19:11 > 0:19:13You and me both, actually, Paul.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16But, first of all, if you were thinking of buying this stone,
0:19:16 > 0:19:18you are doing the wrong thing right away
0:19:18 > 0:19:21because you're looking at it in totally the wrong conditions.
0:19:21 > 0:19:23One of the first things you have to do is to judge
0:19:23 > 0:19:26the colour of a stone and you don't do that in conditions like this.
0:19:26 > 0:19:28- You need to get to daylight.- Right.
0:19:28 > 0:19:30Either go to a window or, if you're in a good auction house,
0:19:30 > 0:19:33- an auction house that has got a daylight lamp.- Yeah.
0:19:33 > 0:19:35And you look at your stone in daylight conditions.
0:19:35 > 0:19:39The other thing to make sure is that you put it on a white background.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41So, if you look at this stone now,
0:19:41 > 0:19:45whereas in the ordinary light it looked quite colourful
0:19:45 > 0:19:46and you wouldn't notice,
0:19:46 > 0:19:49can you see now that it's got a slight yellowish tint?
0:19:49 > 0:19:50Yes, it has gone yellow.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53The first thing you have got to do is compare the colour of this stone
0:19:53 > 0:19:56with the colour-graded cubic zirconia that we've got over there.
0:19:56 > 0:20:00You can see the difference straight away, can't you?
0:20:00 > 0:20:03Absolutely! But, of course, colour is only one of the things
0:20:03 > 0:20:06- we have to consider. - What's the next, then?
0:20:06 > 0:20:09The next thing we have to consider is the clarity of the stone.
0:20:09 > 0:20:13- We need something like that. - We need to go out and buy...
0:20:13 > 0:20:17We need to go out and buy a little magnifying glass, a ten times loop,
0:20:17 > 0:20:19which is what they're referred to.
0:20:19 > 0:20:22Get a good quality one and then practise using it.
0:20:22 > 0:20:25What you want to do is to hold your hand up to your eye
0:20:25 > 0:20:27so that the lens is right in front of your eye
0:20:27 > 0:20:31and as close to your eye as possible and then you can magnify,
0:20:31 > 0:20:33go in and out, so that you can see all aspects of the stone
0:20:33 > 0:20:35you're looking at.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38What other things might you need to consider about the cut and the proportion?
0:20:38 > 0:20:41The only other thing you need to think about is
0:20:41 > 0:20:43the cut of the stone, not just the proportion
0:20:43 > 0:20:46and the way the stone has been cut, but the shape of it.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48So the cut does really mean the shape, does it?
0:20:48 > 0:20:51If you like. So here we are looking at a circular brilliant-cut stone
0:20:51 > 0:20:55and this particular stone is worth about £2,000 a carat.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57If this had been a rectangular stone, of the same colour
0:20:57 > 0:21:02and same clarity grading, it would have been worth about £1,800 a carat
0:21:02 > 0:21:05Unlike gold, where the carat is a measure of the metal's purity,
0:21:05 > 0:21:09with diamonds, a carat refers to the stone's weight.
0:21:09 > 0:21:11So the heavier the diamond, the bigger the carat.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17Do these same rules apply to valuing coloured gemstones?
0:21:17 > 0:21:19To a large extent, they do.
0:21:19 > 0:21:20But with coloured gemstones,
0:21:20 > 0:21:23whether it's emerald earrings like this which are a nice modern pair
0:21:23 > 0:21:27worth perhaps 1,500 to £2,000, this large, impressive green
0:21:27 > 0:21:30tourmaline with diamonds around, that's worth about £500 at auction.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33Ruby and diamond cluster down there, pretty rubies,
0:21:33 > 0:21:35that's going to make perhaps £1,500 to £2,000
0:21:35 > 0:21:39and then this stunning Ceylonese blue sapphire with two diamonds
0:21:39 > 0:21:42on either side, that's going to make in the auction up to £10,000.
0:21:42 > 0:21:46It's the colour, it's the brightness and the intensity of the colour.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49They don't have to be dark, they don't have to be light,
0:21:49 > 0:21:50strong and bright is the answer.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54- Right, that's the key factor for those?- Absolutely.
0:21:54 > 0:21:57So when looking at precious stones, remember the four Cs,
0:21:57 > 0:22:00colour, clarity, cut and carat
0:22:00 > 0:22:04and, if in doubt, seek the advice of an expert.
0:22:07 > 0:22:10Flog It regular Christina Trevanion is the first to admit
0:22:10 > 0:22:13she has a thing for sparkly gems and jewels.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15But as we know, fashions change,
0:22:15 > 0:22:18and the things your granny wouldn't leave home without,
0:22:18 > 0:22:19you may not want to wear today.
0:22:19 > 0:22:22So if you want to sell your jewellery or
0:22:22 > 0:22:25if you want to keep it, there are some very clever but simple
0:22:25 > 0:22:29ways of making it look better, as Christina has been finding out.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34The thing I love about jewellery is that the stones
0:22:34 > 0:22:37we see today have been formed over millions of years in some
0:22:37 > 0:22:39of the most hostile environments on Earth.
0:22:39 > 0:22:42Think volcanoes, deserts and icecaps.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44That's where gemstones are formed,
0:22:44 > 0:22:47yet we get the privilege of being able to wear them today.
0:22:47 > 0:22:49Gemstones, by their very nature are unique,
0:22:49 > 0:22:52but the jewellery they're set into is dictated by fashion,
0:22:52 > 0:22:54and fashions change.
0:22:54 > 0:22:58But if you inherit granny's jewellery and it's not to your taste,
0:22:58 > 0:23:01there's no point it sitting in a drawer, so what do we do with it?
0:23:01 > 0:23:04I'm on my way to meet Nigel, a local jeweller from Shrewsbury.
0:23:04 > 0:23:07- Hi, Nigel.- Morning, Christina. - Hello, how are you?
0:23:07 > 0:23:10- I'm very well, and yourself? - Good, very well, thank you.
0:23:10 > 0:23:12Tell me about modern and antique jewellery.
0:23:12 > 0:23:16Have you noticed modern jewellery isn't selling so much any more?
0:23:16 > 0:23:19- Have you started selling more antique?- Certainly, yes.
0:23:19 > 0:23:23Specific things. Unfortunately, the jewellery trade is very
0:23:23 > 0:23:27fashion-orientated and grandma's old jewellery isn't terribly
0:23:27 > 0:23:30fashionable, the brooches and grandma's engagement ring.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33So, we're basically looking for old jewellery
0:23:33 > 0:23:35we can convert into new jewellery.
0:23:35 > 0:23:40- Obviously there's still sentimental attachment to that jewellery?- Absolutely.
0:23:40 > 0:23:44Jewellery they've inherited and they don't really want to wear it any more,
0:23:44 > 0:23:47and they want it made into something modern and contemporary,
0:23:47 > 0:23:52and something they can wear and then maybe pass down to their children.
0:23:52 > 0:23:57- OK.- I've got some ideas I can show you. Would you like to see?- Yeah!
0:23:57 > 0:24:03- Here we are.- OK.- These are items that we acquired at an auction.- Right.
0:24:03 > 0:24:06Specifically for the idea of converting them
0:24:06 > 0:24:09into something modern and contemporary.
0:24:09 > 0:24:13So, we've got a wedding ring, an engagement ring. And then...
0:24:13 > 0:24:16- a beautiful little brooch. - Sweet little brooch.
0:24:16 > 0:24:18So can I come and have a look?
0:24:18 > 0:24:22Of course, you're very welcome, we'll show you everything from start to finish.
0:24:22 > 0:24:23Oh, fantastic.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30- In here, Christina.- Wow!
0:24:30 > 0:24:33Welcome to our little workshop, very traditional.
0:24:33 > 0:24:35What are we going to make?
0:24:35 > 0:24:37- We're going to make a bracelet. - Using...these pieces?
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- Hello.- Hello there. - I believe these are for you?
0:24:45 > 0:24:47So what are we going to do?
0:24:47 > 0:24:49I'm going to un-set your diamonds.
0:24:49 > 0:24:52This is the first time I've been in a workshop,
0:24:52 > 0:24:54so it's amazing to see this.
0:24:54 > 0:24:56To see this end of it, it's brilliant.
0:24:59 > 0:25:00Oh, my goodness!
0:25:01 > 0:25:05This is a really simple tip which hopefully will help you
0:25:05 > 0:25:10distinguish between diamond and another very effective diamond simulant, cubic zirconia.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13So we'll have a look at these two stones.
0:25:13 > 0:25:18This stone here, which you might be able to see some of this newspaper text through it.
0:25:18 > 0:25:21And so this one should look a solid, grey-ish, black colour,
0:25:21 > 0:25:24you shouldn't be able to see a huge amount through it at all.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26This one is the diamond.
0:25:26 > 0:25:30That is singular refractive and therefore the light doesn't
0:25:30 > 0:25:34travel through the stone in the same way and you can't read the text.
0:25:34 > 0:25:36So there we go, all for the price of a newspaper.
0:25:40 > 0:25:44I'm drawing the gold down to make the right size for the links.
0:25:45 > 0:25:48So working with nine carat gold today,
0:25:48 > 0:25:50which has a slightly higher alloy content.
0:25:50 > 0:25:53It would be difficult to work it in its raw state,
0:25:53 > 0:25:56so heating it makes it slightly more malleable.
0:25:56 > 0:25:57MACHINE GRINDS
0:25:59 > 0:26:02- Those are going to form the basis of our links?- That's right.
0:26:02 > 0:26:04OK, so how do we make those into links now?
0:26:04 > 0:26:08We wait for them to cool down and then we saw.
0:26:12 > 0:26:15It's so great to see this process actually happening.
0:26:15 > 0:26:19I hadn't actually appreciated how every single link is handmade. Amazing.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24At auction we're finding men's jewellery is becoming
0:26:24 > 0:26:27increasingly popular, therefore prices are rising sky-high.
0:26:27 > 0:26:30So here's a top tip for all you gents out there.
0:26:30 > 0:26:33What about if you inherit granny's engagement ring,
0:26:33 > 0:26:37taking the stones and having them set into a beautiful pair of cuff links.
0:26:37 > 0:26:41That way, you get to keep granny's jewellery and it hasn't broken the bank.
0:26:41 > 0:26:45Back in the workshop, Adrian continues to work on the new bracelet.
0:26:45 > 0:26:47- Hi, Adrian.- Hello. - How are you getting on?
0:26:47 > 0:26:50- OK, that's what I've done while you've been away.- Wow!
0:26:50 > 0:26:54So those stones from the ring we saw downstairs and those will be going into those?
0:26:54 > 0:26:57- That's right.- Fantastic.
0:26:57 > 0:27:00I'm amazed at how quick the process has been.
0:27:00 > 0:27:03I really thought it was going to take a long, long time.
0:27:07 > 0:27:11I just wonder whether you've managed to have a look at our bracelet?
0:27:11 > 0:27:14It's all done, ready for you to have a little look at.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17- Ooh, brilliant! Can I see it? - You certainly can.- Brilliant.
0:27:18 > 0:27:20The moment of truth.
0:27:20 > 0:27:22Oh! Oh, wow!
0:27:22 > 0:27:23Oh, that's beautiful.
0:27:25 > 0:27:28- Gosh, are those the diamonds from the brooch and the ring?- Yeah.
0:27:28 > 0:27:31- Is that the wedding band? - That's the wedding ring, yeah.
0:27:31 > 0:27:33That's the 22 carat wedding ring.
0:27:33 > 0:27:37- You can see the beautiful contrast in the gold.- That's a brilliant idea.
0:27:37 > 0:27:39It's worked really well.
0:27:41 > 0:27:43And all handmade.
0:27:43 > 0:27:45Beautiful, fantastic.
0:27:49 > 0:27:50Jewellery was made to be worn.
0:27:50 > 0:27:52It was made to be enjoyed.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54Why not, if you've got jewellery that you're not wearing
0:27:54 > 0:27:58and that you don't want to sell, why not think about having it remodelled,
0:27:58 > 0:28:01so you can wear it and enjoy it for years to come.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08There's nothing quite like owning beautiful jewellery,
0:28:08 > 0:28:11but of course beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13So if you've got a piece that you don't like,
0:28:13 > 0:28:15why not consider selling it,
0:28:15 > 0:28:18or having it remodelled?
0:28:19 > 0:28:23Whatever you do, always remember that although fashion changes,
0:28:23 > 0:28:26quality will always be in vogue.
0:28:26 > 0:28:28I hope you've enjoyed today's show.
0:28:28 > 0:28:32Join me again soon for more Flog It Trade Secrets.