JEWELLERY tucked away in a cupboard for nearly two decades has sold at auction in Lichfield for more than £8,000.
The seller had initially been offered £1,000 for the items, but sought. a second opinion at a valuation event hosted by Richard Winterton Auctioneers at The Auction Cafe in the city centre.
Jewellery consultant Georgina Southam uncovered a time capsule of Victorian and Edwardian jewellery and pocket watches.
The items went to auction earlier this month where they fetched £8,255.
Popular lots included a mid-Victorian 18ct gold pocket watch dating back to 1869 that sold for £900, a late Victorian 15ct gold hinged bangle that fetched £660;and a diamond and pearl cat brooch with red gem cabochon eyes from around 1870 that went for £520.
Other highlights included an 18ct gold five stone diamond boat ring that was sold for £600 and a late 19th century longuard chain that went for £700.
The seller said:
“Since inheriting the collection from my aunt 18 years ago, the jewellery and watches have been in a bag at the back of a cupboard.
“I have had it in my house for many, many years and decided it was time to do something with it all.
“After initially receiving a £1,000 offer elsewhere, I visited The Auction Cafe for a free valuation and was advised that the items would likely be worth far more than £1,000.
“I’d never used an auctioneer before and I think it was the fact valuations were being offered in Lichfield city centre at the cafe which made the whole process so straightforward.
“I was very pleased Richard Winterton Auctioneers could help and I am delighted with the sale.”
Auctioneer Richard Winterton said:
“What a lovely collection this was – a real time capsule of Victorian treasures which delighted our valuers.
“It’s a perfect example of a client having some real hidden treasure and the potential which can be achieved from auction.
“You never truly know what your items may be worth until they go under the hammer. That’s why seeking a free valuation and advice from our professional valuers is always a good idea.
“Even if the item turns out to be of little value, it’s always better to check first.”
