ANTIQUES Roadshow expert Susan Rumfitt will share her expertise at a specialist jewellery valuation day at a Darlington auctioneers.

A buoyant market in jewellery sales has prompted Thomas Watson’s of Darlington to hold the event on November 2 when members of the public will be able to find out what their treasures are currently worth.

Antique specialist Ms Rumfitt is one of the country’s leading jewellery experts who trained at Christie’s and Philips before setting up her own consultancy business in Harrogate.

The public are invited to take along all types of contemporary and antique jewellery and watches for appraisal.

David Elstob, auctioneer and valuer at Thomas Watson, said: “We have been seeing some really high prices achieved in recent sales for jewellery.

“A Geneve gold monophase triple calendar watch sold for £2,000 at our Autumn Catalogue Sale and a late 19th century diamond ring hit £2,800.

“People often don’t know what their possessions are worth because the market does vary. “For instance the Art Deco era is very popular at the moment and at a recent general valuation event in nearby Richmond, someone brought along a 1920’s sapphire and diamond ring that later sold at auction for £1,600.” he added.

While the valuations are free with no obligation, anyone wishing to sell an object will be given the option to have it included in the next relevant auction at the Darlington saleroom.

Anyone wishing to bring jewellery to the valuation day can make an appointment by calling Thomas Watson’s on 01325-462559.