In today's episode I speak with Emily Barber, Jewellery Director of Bonhams UK. 

Tune in to hear of her meticulous journey to authenticate the extraordinarily beautiful Hope Spinel. Bonhams sold the jewel, set as a brooch surrounded by diamonds, in September 2015 for three diamonds its estimate at just under a million pounds/ £1m! It was last sold 98 years previously for £1,060 – the equivalent of £80,000 in today's money.

The Hope Spinel was a sister stone to the Hope Diamond: both part of the greatest ever private gem collection belonging to Henry Philip Hope.

The French mineralogist René Just Haüy described Hope as "one of the most distinguished patrons of the arts of his time." When he died in 1839, his collection was viewed as "...one of most perfect collections of diamonds and precious stones that has, perhaps, ever been possessed by a private individual...".

We also talk about other incredible jewels that Emily has sold during her 17 years at the auction house. And some tips on how to become to a jewellery specialist, for those wondering how on earth you can handle such exquisite pieces of jewellery and gems.

@gemilybarber 

https://www.bonhams.com/press_release/20045/ Hope Spinel post sale press release.

Pictures on @josiegoodbody and www.josiegoodbody.com