In a recent episode of BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, filmed at Crystal Palace Park, a crowd of hopefuls arrived with their treasured items, keen for the show’s experts to give them a valuation.
In one particularly gripping segment, expert Joanna Hardy was approached by a mother and daughter who hadn’t initially planned to have their item evaluated by her, but took advantage of the short queue.
Joanna’s interest was sparked when the woman began to explain the history of an exquisite ring, Edinburgh Live reports. She 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.”
The revelation left the BBC star gobsmacked, leading her to exclaim: “No! I don’t believe that! It could’ve gone in the washing machine! Given to a charity maybe? Oh my goodness.”
She held her head in her hands as she considered the near miss the family had had.
Join the Daily Record’s WhatsApp community hereand get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
The woman then revealed that her mother had hidden the ring inside the sock to prevent it from being lost. The ring, which the lady wore on her little finger, was described as ‘superb’ by Joanna, who went on to provide more details about it.
She observed: “It’s made in platinum, it’s about 1915. The diamond is what we call a transitional cut.”
Joanna voiced her preference for the understated elegance of their piece over the more flashy modern brilliant-cut diamonds, revealing the huge size of the rock, stating: “It is nearly four carats, so it’s a really large size.”
Despite its splendour, she noticed a minor natural flaw and a claw in need of repair. She gave an enticing estimation: “If you were at auction, this would be in the region of £20,000.”
The revelation left the owner astounded as she excitedly turned to her daughter saying, “Wow, oh gosh. Better get that claw fixed quickly! ”
They were both left in amazement by Joanna’s praise for their precious gem as they echoed ‘wow’ in astonishment.
Get the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here.