Izzie Balmer: The Ultimate Guide to the BBC Antiques Star

Izzie Balmer is a professional British auctioneer, jewelry valuer, and television presenter best known for her recurring roles on BBC daytime hits including Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and The Travelling Auctioneers. Born in January 1989 in Derbyshire, Balmer rose to prominence after a serendipitous television debut where she stood in for her former boss, Charles Hanson, during a live auction. Since then, she has become a fan favorite due to her extensive technical knowledge of gemstones and her approachable, down-to-earth screen presence.

In this comprehensive guide, you will explore Izzie Balmer’s early life as a musical prodigy, her specialized education at the Birmingham School of Jewellery, and her successful career transition from geography graduate to head valuer. You will also find practical details on how to see her in action at auction houses, her current freelance projects for 2026, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about her private life and professional achievements.

Early Life and Derbyshire Roots

Izzie Balmer was born in January 1989 and raised in the picturesque village of Quarndon, Derbyshire. She grew up in a supportive household with her parents, Sheila and Toby, and her younger brother, Hugh, where she developed an early interest in the arts and collectibles.

Her childhood was defined by a mix of outdoor activities and a rigorous focus on music. Living in Derbyshire provided a scenic backdrop for her early years, and she often credits her mother for encouraging the curiosity that eventually led her into the world of antiques.

A Musical Prodigy’s Journey

Before discovering her passion for antiques, Izzie was a highly accomplished musician specializing in the viola. At the age of 16, she earned a place in the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, having achieved Grade 8 proficiency.

Despite her immense talent, Izzie found that the high-pressure environment of music college was not the right fit for her long-term happiness. She eventually pivoted her academic focus, attending the University of Bristol and later Durham University, where she graduated with a degree in Geography.

Falling Into the Antiques Trade

Izzie’s entry into the world of auctions was largely accidental rather than a lifelong ambition. After completing her university degree and feeling uncertain about her career path, she took a part-time job in a local vintage shop.

On the advice of her mother, she sought two weeks of work experience at a local auction house to gain a better understanding of the trade. Within just a fortnight, her natural aptitude for identifying and valuing items led to a permanent job offer, marking the beginning of her professional ascent.

Specialized Training in Gemmology

To solidify her standing in the industry, Izzie pursued formal technical training at the School of Jewellery in Birmingham. She successfully earned professional diplomas in both Gemmology and Diamond Grading, which allowed her to specialize in high-end jewelry.

This academic foundation gave her a significant advantage in the auction world, as she could provide scientific assessments of precious stones. Today, she is widely considered one of the UK’s leading experts in antique jewelry and silver valuations.

Career at Wessex Auction Rooms

From 2018 to 2023, Izzie Balmer served as the Head Valuer and Auctioneer at Wessex Auction Rooms in Wiltshire. During her tenure, she was responsible for overseeing major sales and providing expert appraisals for a wide variety of fine art and collectibles.

Her role at Wessex was instrumental in building her reputation as a formidable force on the auction rostrum. She gained particular acclaim for her ability to handle high-pressure bidding environments with calm and professional precision.

Breakthrough on BBC’s Bargain Hunt

Izzie’s television career began by chance when her then-boss, Charles Hanson, was unable to attend a filming session for Bargain Hunt. Izzie was asked to step in at the last minute to conduct the auction on camera, despite having no prior media training.

Her natural charisma and expert knowledge immediately caught the attention of BBC producers. This single appearance led to a permanent role as an expert on the show, where she now helps contestants navigate the risks and rewards of the antiques market.

Starring on Antiques Road Trip

In 2019, Izzie joined the cast of Antiques Road Trip, a show that features experts traveling across the UK in vintage cars to find hidden gems. Her competitive spirit and deep knowledge of jewelry have led to some of the show’s most memorable and profitable “finds.”

She often competes against fellow experts like James Braxton and Ishy Khan, bringing a mix of humor and scholarly insight to the screen. Her episodes are particularly popular for the “rare moments” where she uncovers undervalued jewelry in small-town shops.

The Travelling Auctioneers Success

Izzie further expanded her television portfolio as a co-presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers. In this format, she joins a team that visits homes across the country to unearth hidden treasures and restore them for sale at auction.

The show highlights her skills not just as a valuer, but as a storyteller who can connect the history of an object to the families who owned them. Her work on this series has solidified her status as a versatile broadcaster and heritage expert.

Notable High-Value Auction Sales

Throughout her career, Izzie has overseen the sale of several high-profile items that exceeded their initial estimates. One of her most significant successes was the sale of an oil painting by George Turner, which fetched a staggering £22,000.

In the realm of jewelry and watches, she has also achieved impressive results, including a rare Rolex watch that sold for £20,000. Her eye for detail ensures that rare items are correctly identified and marketed to the right collectors globally.

Practical Information and Planning

Where to See Izzie Balmer

As of 2024, Izzie has transitioned into a freelance role and currently serves as a consultant for Clevedon Salerooms near Bristol. Fans and collectors can often find her conducting valuations or appearing on the rostrum during their specialized jewelry and silver auctions.

Auction Attendance Details

• Location: Clevedon Salerooms, The Eveleigh, Clevedon BS21 6RR.
• Valuation Days: Typically held on Mondays or by appointment for high-value items.
• Entry Costs: Attending an auction is generally free of charge for the public, though registration is required to bid.

Tips for Meeting the Expert

• Check the Schedule: Always check the auction house website to confirm which days Izzie is on-site.
• Bring Documentation: If seeking a valuation, bring any original boxes or certificates to help the appraisal process.
• Follow Social Media: Izzie is active on Instagram (@izziedot), where she often posts updates about her upcoming filming locations and public appearances.

Life in Bristol and Personal Hobbies

Izzie currently resides in Bristol, a city she chose for its vibrant arts scene and proximity to the auction houses of the West Country. Despite her busy filming schedule, she maintains a strong connection to her local community.

In her spare time, she continues to play the viola in several Bristol-based orchestras and is a member of a string quartet that performs at private events. She is also an avid gardener and has recently taken up beekeeping as a way to unwind from the fast-paced world of television.

Handling the Male-Dominated Industry

Izzie has been vocal about the challenges of being a young woman in the historically male-dominated antiques trade. She has shared anecdotes of being underestimated by older male collectors who assumed she lacked expertise.

However, her technical qualifications in gemmology and her track record at the auction block have earned her the respect of her peers. She is now considered a role model for young women looking to enter the professional world of fine art and valuation.

Future Projects for 2026

Entering 2026, Izzie Balmer remains a staple of the BBC daytime lineup with new episodes of Antiques Road Trip currently in production. She is also focusing more on independent consultancy work, helping private clients build and manage jewelry collections.

There are also rumors of a potential book project or a specialized jewelry podcast in the works, though no official dates have been announced. Her influence on the industry continues to grow as she bridges the gap between traditional auctioneering and modern digital media.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Izzie Balmer? 

Izzie Balmer is a professional British auctioneer, jewelry expert, and television presenter. She is widely recognized for her work on BBC programs like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip.

Is Izzie Balmer married? 

Izzie Balmer keeps her personal life very private. While there has been online speculation regarding a partner, she has never publicly confirmed her marital status or the identity of a spouse.

What instrument does Izzie Balmer play? 

She is a highly skilled viola player. She was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain and continues to play in orchestras in Bristol.

What is Izzie Balmer’s net worth? 

While exact figures are private, industry estimates place Izzie Balmer’s net worth at approximately $1 million (£800,000). This is derived from her television contracts, auctioneer salary, and freelance consultancy work.

What did Izzie Balmer study at university? 

She graduated with a degree in Geography from Durham University before pursuing further studies in Gemmology at the Birmingham School of Jewellery.

Where does Izzie Balmer live? 

She currently lives in Bristol, England. She moved there several years ago and frequently films in the surrounding areas of the West Country and Wales.

What is the most expensive item Izzie Balmer has sold? 

One of her highest career sales was an oil painting by Derbyshire artist George Turner, which sold for £22,000 at auction.

How can I get an item valued by Izzie Balmer? 

You can contact Clevedon Salerooms, where she works as a consultant valuer. Alternatively, you can follow her social media for announcements regarding public valuation days.

Is Izzie Balmer still on Bargain Hunt? 

Yes, Izzie remains a regular expert on Bargain Hunt and continues to film new episodes for the BBC as of the 2025/2026 season.

Does Izzie Balmer have children? 

Izzie has not shared any information regarding having children and prefers to keep her family life out of the public eye.

What is Izzie Balmer’s height? 

Izzie Balmer’s exact height is not publicly documented, though she is often seen on screen alongside other experts, appearing to be of average height.

Final Thoughts

Izzie Balmer has successfully navigated a unique path from a musical upbringing in Derbyshire to becoming one of the UK’s most respected antiques experts and television personalities. Her rare combination of formal gemmological training and natural broadcasting charisma has allowed her to demystify the world of auctions for millions of viewers. Whether she is identifying the hidden value in a Brutalist silver brooch or competing for the best find on a cross-country road trip, Balmer brings a level of technical authority that is often unmatched in daytime television.

As of 2026, her career continues to evolve through a balance of high-profile media work and hands-on valuation. By maintaining her roles on Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip while expanding her reach as a freelance consultant for prestigious salerooms, she remains a vital link between traditional heritage and modern audiences. Her commitment to her private passions—from the orchestral pit to her honeybee hives—further solidifies her reputation as an authentic and relatable figure in a field that thrives on history and character.

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