Elizabeth Bailey BA(Hons) MA FGA DGA CPAA works currently at Doerr Dallas Valuations, providing formal valuation reports for probate, insurance, and division of assets, focusing on fine jewellery, watches, and silver. She’s the ex-chairperson for our Gem-A North West branch.
Early Passion for Decorative Arts and Antiques
From childhood, Liz developed a deep fascination with decorative arts, driven by a desire to unearth the histories behind objects and share their stories. Childhood activities included trawling antique fairs for unique finds and enthusiastically visiting museums and National Trust properties. This early captivation with antique items, vintage design, and the social history of cherished objects established a foundation that continues to influence her professional work today. The combination of aesthetic appreciation and historical curiosity became the cornerstone of her career trajectory in the jewellery and auction industry.
Academic Foundation and Entry into the Auction World
Liz studied English Literature at the University of Leeds, where during her final year she secured work experience at a local auction house. Working in sales alongside her undergraduate studies, she experienced the buzz, thrill, and excitement of the saleroom, which immediately captivated her. This pivotal experience clarified her career direction—she wanted to specialise in a subject that would enable her to pursue a career in the auction world. Upon graduation, she was offered a full-time position as a saleroom assistant, where she remained for two years before relocating to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to work at a leading regional auctioneer with the specific intention of specialising in jewellery. Starting as an administrator in the jewellery department, she was encouraged by colleagues to pursue formal gemmological education to advance her career prospects.
Intensive Gemmological Education Journey
Liz’s gemmological education began at the Birmingham School of Jewellery, where she completed Gem-A’s Foundation course through evening classes after work. Simultaneously, she pursued a Master’s degree in Antiques through the University of Central Lancashire, studying design movements and collections practice before focusing her final year dissertation on Georgian sentimental jewellery. Juggling these two demanding educational programmes alongside a full-time position at a busy auction house proved challenging but invaluable. This combination of formal education and hands-on experience working with established specialists in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter helped her develop a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of jewellery craftsmanship, design, and history. Motivated by this progress, she completed both the Gemmology and Diamond Diplomas via online learning within a couple of years, demonstrating remarkable dedication and time management skills.
Professional Impact of Gemmological Qualifications
Acquiring these vital qualifications enabled significant career progression as both a jewellery specialist and auctioneer. The diplomas provided her with greater confidence to communicate with clients clearly, translating complex technical details about items into accessible language. The depth of knowledge gained allowed her to test and identify gemstones accurately—a crucial skill in the auction environment. The precision taught through the diploma programmes proved vital for exacting research, accurate valuations, detailed descriptions, and professional presentation of jewellery sold through auction. These qualifications transformed her from an administrator into a recognised specialist capable of handling high-value items with authority and expertise.
Leadership Role and Daily Responsibilities
In 2019, Liz was appointed head of the jewellery department at Wilson55 in Cheshire, a position that encompasses comprehensive responsibility for all jewellery and watches valued, processed, and sold within specialist sales. Her role spanned the entire auction process—from initial client consultation through research and cataloguing, to selling items on the rostrum, and managing client aftercare and marketing. The position’s incredible diversity ensures every day differs from the last. Curating specialist sales from conception through to fruition on sale day provides daily motivation and excitement. The pandemic accelerated operational changes, with exponential increases in online hosted auctions and live internet bidding, making thorough and accurate presentation of lots more crucial than ever. The auction world’s ability to pivot and adapt brilliantly during challenging circumstances demonstrated the industry’s resilience.
Community Building and Gem-A Branches
After relocating for that position, Liz sought to connect with other gemmologists in the region, inspired by the collaborative ‘hub’ atmosphere she experienced in the Jewellery Quarter and through friends in the Midlands Gem-A Branch. At the 2019 Gem-A London Conference, she met other gemmology professionals from the North West region, and during a break-time conversation, the idea to reinstate Gem-A North West was conceived. After assembling a committee of local gemmologists and receiving approval from Gem-A headquarters, the North West regional branch was reinstated after approximately ten years of inactivity. Gem-A North West has hosted vibrant committee meetings and Zoom talks featuring guest speakers, with plans for future demonstrations and trips. The branch has grown dramatically from a committee of four or five members to over one hundred registrants on the mailing list. The committee now comprises valuers, retailers, auctioneers, retired industry professionals, and enthusiasts, forming fantastic support for both new and established gemmologists whilst welcoming new students to the field.
If you wish to get involved in the activities of the North-West, or other branch, please contact membership@gem-a.com
For more information on the different membership tiers and their benefits please click here.
