Lucy Bedeman | Meet the expert

Lucy Bedeman FGA DGA

Jewellery Expert

A love of history and the chance to study a wide range of art and antiques drew Lucy towards the auction world, whilst the beauty and design of jewellery made up her mind to become a specialist jewellery valuer.

Her gemmological skills and passion for jewellery are a welcome addition to the Dawsons Team.

Why are you working within the auction world?

For me, it is a love of history and the chance to see and study a wide range of art and antiques. Working with top experts in a wide variety of specialisms is highly rewarding and everyday there is an opportunity to learn something new. Then there’s the build up to and excitement of the auction and seeing the results of all our hard work cataloguing and valuing!

Within your career to date, which item would you class as your favourite?

I think it has to be a Victorian diamond garland necklace sold recently at Dawsons. This was a beautiful piece of jewellery with the winning combination of history, craftsmanship, excellent condition, and a connection its original owner. The piece was set with old cut and rose cut diamonds which have a unique character and life. In this period diamonds were cut by hand to display maximum fire since they were worn in candlelight. The necklace exceeded its estimate and sold for £49,000.

What first attracted you to your speciality?

When I started my career as a saleroom assistant in a London auction house, the jewellery department immediately caught my attention. The beauty and design of jewellery can be captivating, and the combination of science, history and craftsmanship is fascinating. I went on to study gemmology, and loved discovering the science behind the identification of natural gemstones.

A French Art Deco platinum and multi gem Egyptian revival pendant

A French Art Deco Egyptian revival pendant

Sold for £39,500

Learn more

What aspect of your career do you find most satisfying?

I love the research involved in discovering the provenance of a piece or finding the maker. I have carried out a lot of research into jewellery history over the years and I’m particularly interested in the social history surrounding the wearing of jewellery. It is so rewarding to have the opportunity to pass on my knowledge to people who have often inherited jewellery and would like to know more about what they own.

"A quality piece of jewellery with history and provenance will always capture the attention of buyers."

If money were no object, what would you most like to buy?

I would love to own a historical revival piece by a top 19^th century jeweller such as Giuliano or Castellani. These pieces have a high level of craftsmanship and design and are rich in history and tradition.

What should a potential collector/buyer look to purchase? Why?

Look for rarity and craftsmanship, and above all buy what you love! An early signed piece by a good maker will always be a good investment. The craftsmaniship seen in high end French jewellery of the 19^th and early 20^th century is particularly good. Look for names like Cartier, Mauboussin, Boucheron and Van Cleef & Arpels.

What are the best items to sell via an auction house?

A quality piece of jewellery with history and provenance will always capture the attention of buyers. A good quality coloured gem or pearl in an antique piece of jewellery is more likely to be natural and unenhanced, as cultured pearls and many synthetic gemstones were first produced in the 20^th century. Selling at auction is the best way to achieve the highest return as you have a wide range of buyers bidding against each other, from trade to private clients.

A Cartier Kashmir Sapphire & Diamond Flower Brooch

Sold for £340,000

Learn More

What are your valuables worth?

Request a free auction estimate from our team of specialists, or contact us to book an appointment. If your item is suitable for auction, we will provide you with a valuation and further details of how to sell with us.

Request a Valuation