Claire Maloney

Jewellery Valuer & Cataloguer

With a keen interest and love of all things gemmological and a fascination with the auction world, Claire was always likely to end up working for an auction business, and we are delighted she is part of the Dawsons team.

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Why are you working within the auction world?

I was drawn to the auction world after university, excited by the fast-paced and dynamic environment. The most exciting aspect is the variety of pieces I get to work with on a daily basis and the unique opportunity to engage with objects that span so many different historical eras. Something different comes through the doors each day, which not only presents constant challenges but also offers the chance to expand my knowledge.

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

There are so many memorable pieces to choose from, but a few stand out in particular. My first highlight has to be the Freddie Mercury Collection; It was an honour to have such close contact with the personal side of Mercury’s life. Another unforgettable experience was handling Dame Shirley Bassey’s exquisite jewellery collection. When considering individual lots, three pieces stand out. The first was a remarkable Spanish Colonial emerald ring dating back to before 1656, with fascinating provenance having been lost at sea for over 300 years. It sold for six times its estimate at £126,000! Another piece has to be an 8.69 carat pink diamond ring by JAR, which showcased impeccable craftsmanship. The Westminster Tiara, with its unique history and intricate design, would also be a firm favourite.

What first attracted you to your speciality?

From a young age, I found myself captivated by the natural beauty of rocks, minerals, and precious stones. These early interests sparked a deep curiosity that would later evolve into a passion for jewellery, leading to further studies in Silversmithing and Jewellery Design. What started as a childhood fascination evolved into a deep commitment to Gemmology and Jewellery. My career began at Sotheby’s, where I had the privilege of working with some truly extraordinary pieces - everything from a £109 million Picasso to treasures from the Mughal Empire. But it was the world of jewellery that truly captured my attention and has continued to captivate me ever since.

A French Art Deco platinum and multi gem Egyptian revival pendant

A French Art Deco Egyptian revival pendant

Sold for £39,500

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What aspect of your career do you find most satisfying?

The most rewarding aspect of this industry is working closely with clients throughout the sale process. Selling a piece of jewellery can often be an emotional journey. I find great satisfaction in guiding clients through this process, helping them make informed decisions, and ensuring the best possible outcome for each individual. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that I’ve played a part in achieving their goals, whether that's securing the right price or finding the next home for a cherished item.

"I believe the pieces that perform the best at auction are often those that combine timeless design with a unique twist."

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

I would undoubtedly choose an Art Deco piece. I’ve always been drawn to the clean lines and bold use of materials that make this time period so notable. Ideally, it would be a signed piece, perhaps from Jean Fouquet, who beautifully combines rich enamel with faceted stones.

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

Firstly, I would recommend that buyers focus on pieces they truly love. The beauty of auctions is the wide variety of items available, so there’s usually something for everyone, even if they have no previous auction buying experience. I would also prioritize high-quality, timeless pieces. When buying at auction, I like to think of it as caring for an item that will be passed down to future generations. Auctions are a great place to find pieces with thoughtful design and craftsmanship that often surpass what's available in current retail settings.

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

I believe the pieces that perform the best at auction are often those that combine timeless design with a unique twist. These pieces stand out and are irreplaceable in today’s market. When it comes to jewellery, the finest pieces often don’t follow trends, but instead possess an added element of intrigue, such as en tremblant movement or the versatility of convertible designs.

An Art Deco Diamond Lapel Brooch

Sold for £3,700