Izzie Balmer is a celebrated British auctioneer, gemmologist, and television presenter, best known for her energetic appearances on BBC antique programmes like Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and The Travelling Auctioneers.Born in Derbyshire in 1989, she originally trained as a classical musician (viola) and studied Geography at Durham University before pivoting to the antiques trade. As of 2026, she serves as a specialist jewellery and silver consultant for Clevedon Salerooms in Bristol, having previously been the Head Valuer at Wessex Auction Rooms. She is widely recognized for her “FGA” and “DGA” qualifications (Fellow of the Gemmological Association and Diamond Diploma), making her one of the UK’s leading younger experts in precious stones and vintage jewellery.
In the often traditional world of antiques, Izzie Balmer stands out as a vibrant, modern force. With her signature bob, infectious enthusiasm, and razor-sharp eye for gemstones, she has transitioned from a local auction house valuer to a household name on British daytime television.
Unlike many experts who inherited their trade from family businesses, Balmer “fell” into the industry by accident, creating a relatable path that resonates with viewers. Her expertise is not just for show; she holds some of the highest qualifications in the gemmological world, allowing her to spot thousands of pounds worth of diamonds in a box of costume trinkets.
This mega-guide covers every facet of Izzie Balmer’s life and career. From her origins as a viola prodigy in Derbyshire to her current role at Clevedon Salerooms, we explore her biggest auction wins, her tips for spotting valuable jewellery, and how you can get her to value your own heirlooms.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Before she ever held a gavel, Izzie Balmer held a viola. Her early life was defined not by dusty cabinets, but by concert halls and rigorous musical discipline.
The Derbyshire Roots
Isobel “Izzie” Balmer was born in Quarndon, Derbyshire, around 1989. She grew up in a supportive family with her parents, Sheila and Toby, and her younger brother, Hugh. Her upbringing was creative but disciplined, fostering a work ethic that would later serve her well in the high-pressure environment of live auctions.+2
The Classical Musician
Balmer was a musical prodigy. By the age of 16, she had achieved Grade 8 on the viola—the highest level of amateur proficiency. Her talent earned her a place in the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, an elite ensemble that selects the finest young musicians in the country.
- University Choice: Despite her musical talent, she chose not to pursue a conservatoire education, feeling that the intense pressure of music college might kill her love for the art form.
- Academic Path: Instead, she attended Durham University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography. At this stage, she had no intention of entering the antiques trade; she simply needed a degree from a top-tier university.
The “Gap” That Changed Everything
After graduating, Balmer found herself in the “post-university limbo” familiar to many graduates. Unsure of her career path, she moved back home to Derbyshire. It was her mother, Sheila, who suggested she try a two-week work experience placement at a local business to build her CV. That business happened to be Hansons Auctioneers, run by the charismatic Charles Hanson (another future TV colleague).
- The Spark: Balmer intended to stay for two weeks. She loved the thrill of the saleroom so much that she stayed for four and a half years, eventually training as an auctioneer under Hanson’s mentorship.
Career in Auctioneering: From Porter to Head Valuer
Izzie Balmer’s rise in the industry was meteoric, driven by her willingness to learn every aspect of the trade, from heavy lifting to delicate gem analysis.
Hansons Auctioneers (The Training Ground)
At Hansons, Balmer started at the bottom. In the auction world, this often means working as a porter—moving furniture, labeling lots, and managing the chaos of sale day. This “ground-up” education gave her a broad knowledge of general antiques, ceramics, and collectables. However, she soon realized that to become indispensable, she needed a specialism.
The Pivot to Jewellery
Realizing that “sparkly things” fascinated her more than brown furniture, Balmer decided to retrain. This was a significant academic undertaking.
- Qualifications: She studied at the School of Jewellery in Birmingham and the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A).
- Diplomas: She achieved her FGA (Gemmology Diploma) and DGA (Diamond Grading Diploma). These are grueling courses involving chemistry, optics, and geology. Holding both makes her a dual-qualified expert, a rarity even among TV presenters.
Wessex Auction Rooms (The Leadership Role)
In 2018, Balmer moved to the South West to join Wessex Auction Rooms in Wiltshire as their Head Valuer.
- Impact: She spearheaded their dedicated Jewellery and Silver sales, significantly increasing the department’s turnover. Her ability to identify “sleepers” (undervalued items) helped the auction house achieve record prices.
- The £5,000 Find: One of her most famous discoveries at Wessex occurred in 2022, when a client brought in a box of “costume jewellery” they intended to donate to charity. Balmer spotted a Victorian piece and several gold items hidden within the junk. The “worthless” box eventually sold for over £5,000, cementing her reputation as a finder of lost treasures.
Clevedon Salerooms (Current Role)
As of 2024/2025, reports indicate Balmer has transitioned to a consultancy role at Clevedon Salerooms in Bristol. This move allows her to balance her increasing TV commitments with serious valuation work. She conducts specialist valuation days, focusing purely on high-end jewellery, silver, and watches.
Television Career: The Road Trip Star
Izzie Balmer’s transition to TV was serendipitous. While working at Hansons, Charles Hanson was unable to attend a filming session for Bargain Hunt due to a scheduling conflict. He threw Balmer in at the deep end to cover for him. The producers loved her natural charisma, and her TV career began.
Street Auction (2016–2017)
Her first major co-presenting role was on BBC One’s Street Auction, where she appeared alongside Paul Martin and Danny Sebastian. The show involved auctioning neighbors’ unwanted items on their doorstep to raise money for a community cause. It was a trial by fire in live, unscripted presenting.
Antiques Road Trip (2019–Present)
Balmer joined the cast of Antiques Road Trip in 2019, becoming one of the show’s most popular younger experts.
- The Format: She is paired with another expert (often Mark Hill, Charles Hanson, or James Braxton) and given a budget of £200 to buy items and sell them for profit.
- Style: Balmer is known for her daring purchases. While older experts might buy safe, traditional porcelain, Balmer often gambles on vintage fashion, mid-century jewellery, or quirky scientific instruments.
- The Classic Cars: A fan-favourite element of the show is the experts driving classic cars. Balmer has been filmed struggling with the gears of everything from a 1980s Lotus Éclat to a vintage Morris Minor, often laughing off breakdowns on country lanes.
Bargain Hunt
On Bargain Hunt, Balmer serves as the “Blue” or “Red” team expert. Her job is to guide two amateur contestants through an antiques fair in one hour.
- Strategy: She is known for strict time management. She often pushes her teams to spend big on one “Golden Gavel” item rather than buying three cheap pieces, arguing that quality always sells better at auction.
The Travelling Auctioneers (2022–Present)
This newer format sees Balmer teaming up with restoration experts (like JJ Chalmers) to visit families, restore their unwanted items, and auction them off. This show allows her to display more empathy and storytelling, exploring the social history behind the objects.
Notable Finds and “Mega” Sales
Balmer’s career is punctuated by several “hammer drops” that stunned the room.
The George Turner Oil Painting
Her most lucrative find on Antiques Road Trip (and possibly her career) was an oil painting by the Derbyshire artist George Turner.
- The Buy: She found the painting in a general antique shop. Recognizing the artist’s signature style (often called “Derbyshire’s John Constable”), she negotiated a purchase price well under its market value.
- The Sale: At auction, the painting triggered a bidding war. It eventually sold for £22,000.
- The Profit: This generated one of the largest profits in the show’s history, proving that her expertise extends beyond jewellery into fine art when it involves her home county.
The Rare Rolex
While working as a valuer, she identified a rare vintage Rolex Submariner. The owner had kept it in a drawer, assuming it was broken and worthless. Balmer authenticated the dial and movement, and it subsequently sold for £20,000.
The Suffragette Jewellery
Balmer has a specific interest in Suffragette jewellery (Green, White, and Violet stones—Give Women Votes). She frequently advises collectors on how to spot fakes, as many dealers incorrectly label any peridot and pearl jewellery as “Suffragette.” Balmer looks for specific hallmarks and makers from the 1908–1914 period to verify authenticity.
Practical Information: How to Get a Valuation
If you believe you have a hidden gem, you can utilize Izzie Balmer’s expertise directly. She is not just a TV face; she is a working valuer.
Clevedon Salerooms Valuation Days
As of 2026, Izzie Balmer holds regular valuation clinics at Clevedon Salerooms.
- When: Typically on Tuesdays, on a three-weekly cycle following their specialist sales.
- Where: The Kenn Road Saleroom, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT.
- Cost: Initial verbal valuations for the purpose of sale are usually free.
- Procedure: You can bring items (specifically jewellery, silver, and watches) for her to inspect. If the item is valuable, she will offer a reserve price and explain the auction process.
Buying at Her Auctions
If you want to buy items curated or catalogued by Balmer:
- Catalogues: Look for the “Specialist Jewellery & Silver” catalogues at Clevedon Salerooms.
- Online Bidding: most auctions are broadcast live via platforms like The Saleroom or EasyLiveAuction.
- Fees: Remember that buying at auction incurs a “Buyer’s Premium” (often 20-30% + VAT) on top of the hammer price.
Tips for Visitors
- Check the Schedule: Izzie is a freelancer with a heavy filming schedule. Do not turn up at the auction house expecting to see her without checking their “Valuation Days” calendar online first.
- Prepare Your Items: If you have jewellery, try to bring any original boxes or paperwork. Do not clean the items harshly—scrubbing a vintage patina off silver can devalue it.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Izzie Balmer guards her privacy fiercely. In an era of “influencer” experts, she keeps her social media professional.
Is Izzie Balmer Married?
As of early 2026, there is no public record of Izzie Balmer being married. She has never discussed a husband or partner in interviews, preferring to keep her romantic life completely off-screen. She lives in Bristol, a city she loves for its vibrant social scene and proximity to the auction houses of the West Country.
The Musician Returns
Balmer has not abandoned music. She plays the viola in several Bristol-based orchestras and is a member of a string quartet that performs at weddings and local events. She has described music as her “meditation,” a way to switch off from the high-octane world of bidding wars.
Social Media
- Twitter/X: She uses this platform to share behind-the-scenes snaps of Antiques Road Trip classic cars and her “outfit of the day.”
- Instagram: Her feed is a mix of sparkling gemstones, muddy boots from road trips, and scenic views of the British countryside. She rarely posts about family or relationships.
Seasonal Section: 2026 Auction Trends
According to Balmer’s recent appearances and columns, the 2026 market is shifting.
- What’s Hot: Mid-Century Modern Silver. The heavy, brutalist silver jewellery of the 1960s and 70s (by makers like Georg Jensen or Gerald Benney) is soaring in value.
- What’s Not: Brown Furniture. The market for heavy Victorian mahogany wardrobes remains flat. Balmer advises converting these items into “statement pieces” or upcycling them if they have no significant provenance.
- Amber: Balmer has noted a resurgence in high-quality amber beads, fueled by the Asian market. If you have chunky amber necklaces from the 1920s, now is the time to sell.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How old is Izzie Balmer? Born around 1989, Izzie Balmer is approximately 36 or 37 years old as of early 2026.
2. Is Izzie Balmer married? Izzie Balmer keeps her personal life private. There is no public information or social media evidence to suggest she is married or has a husband.
3. What does Izzie Balmer do now? She works as a consultant valuer for Clevedon Salerooms in Bristol, specializing in jewellery and silver. She also continues to film new episodes of Antiques Road Trip and Bargain Hunt for the BBC.
4. What is Izzie Balmer’s most expensive find? Her record TV find is an oil painting by George Turner, which she bought cheaply and sold for £22,000. In her private valuation work, she has handled jewellery and watches exceeding this figure.
5. Does Izzie Balmer play an instrument? Yes. She is a Grade 8 viola player and was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. she still plays in local orchestras in Bristol.
6. Where is Izzie Balmer from? She is from Quarndon, Derbyshire, in the East Midlands of England.
7. How can I contact Izzie Balmer for a valuation? You should contact Clevedon Salerooms directly to inquire about her next valuation day. Avoid messaging her personal social media accounts for valuations, as professional ethics usually prevent experts from valuing items via Instagram DM.
8. What qualifications does Izzie Balmer have? She has a BA in Geography from Durham University, a FGA(Gemmology Diploma), and a DGA (Diamond Grading Diploma) from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain.
9. Why does Izzie Balmer wear gloves on TV? While she doesn’t always wear them, experts often wear white cotton or nitrile gloves when handling metalware (silver/gold) to prevent acidic oils from their skin tarnishing the metal. However, for jewellery, bare hands are often safer to ensure a secure grip on slippery gemstones.
10. Is Izzie Balmer rich? As a successful Head Valuer and BBC presenter, she earns a comfortable living, but “rich” is subjective. TV experts on the BBC are paid modest appearance fees compared to commercial TV stars. Her primary income likely comes from her professional auction work.
11. Did Izzie Balmer leave Wessex Auction Rooms? Yes. She left her full-time role as Head Valuer at Wessex Auction Rooms around 2023 to pursue a freelance career and her consultancy at Clevedon Salerooms, giving her more flexibility for filming.
12. What car does Izzie Balmer drive? In her private life, she has not disclosed her vehicle. On Antiques Road Trip, she is famous for driving (and stalling) various classic cars provided by the production team, including Triumphs and Rovers.
13. What is Izzie Balmer’s net worth? Estimates vary wildly online and are rarely accurate. However, combining her salary as a senior valuer with her regular BBC appearance fees, she likely has a net worth in the mid-six-figure range (£300k–£500k).
14. Does Izzie Balmer have children? There is no public information suggesting she has children.
15. What is Izzie Balmer’s height? She is approximately 5ft 6in to 5ft 7in (167-170 cm), often appearing similar in height to her co-presenters like Mark Hill.
For a glimpse of Izzie’s expertise in action, you can watch her uncover a hidden fortune in a simple box of trinkets here:
Antiques Road Trip star Izzie Balmer’s £5000 find
This video showcases Izzie Balmer on Antiques Road Trip (Season 27), demonstrating her keen eye for detail as she scours shops for profitable items, reflecting the exact skills discussed in this article.
