The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is delighted to announce the keynote speakers for the 2025 Valuers’ Conference, proudly supported by headline sponsor Bonhams. The event will take place on 7–8 June at the Edgbaston Park Hotel, Birmingham.
This year’s Conference features an engaging programme of presentations, workshops and masterclasses tailored to all sectors of the jewellery industry — from valuers and retailers to students, designers and sales professionals keen to enhance their expertise.
Keynote Speakers – Saturday, 7 June
Kate Flitcroft FGA – Co-Head of UK Jewellery, Bonhams
Based at Bonhams’ New Bond Street saleroom, Kate serves as principal auctioneer for the UK Jewellery department. Her career spans a decade at Christie’s London, followed by her role as Head of Jewellery and Silver at Lyon & Turnbull. Kate is a regular expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, and was awarded the Anderson Medal for gemmology by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain in 2016. She has also raised nearly £3 million through charity auctions and has conducted two white-glove sales.
Dr Aaron Palke – Senior Manager of Coloured Stone Research, GIA
Dr Palke leads the Gemological Institute of America’s research on the geographic origin of rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other coloured stones. He also works on refining treatment identification methods. A frequent contributor to Gems & Gemology, Dr Palke serves on the journal’s editorial board and has guest-edited two special issues.
Dr Tehmina Goskar – Research Curator, Museum of Cornish Life
A Research Fellow at the Decolonising Arts Institute (UAL) and a Fellow of the Museums Association, Dr Goskar is an expert in material culture and the ethics of museum curation. Her research explores historical objects in their cultural and geographical contexts, with her work featured in a wide range of academic publications.
Adrian Hailwood – Founder & Managing Director, The Watch Scholar
With a distinguished career that spans luxury retail, auctions, and online platforms, Adrian has overseen watch sales totalling over £42 million. In 2023, he launched The Watch Scholar — the only educational platform dedicated to the pre-owned watch market. His presentation will explore recent trends in the watch market, particularly the decline in pre-owned prices and their implications for valuations.
Jason Williams – Director, G. F Williams
Jason has worked in the family gemstone business since 1988, building a wealth of knowledge in sourcing and dealing in fine coloured gemstones. Based in Hatton Garden, G. F Williams is renowned for its quality and expertise.
Dr Çigdem Lüle, Executive Director of AIJV (Association of Independent Jewellery Valuers)
Dr Lüle is a mineralogist and an award-winning research gemmologist. Her services include independent mineral and gem appraisals, consultation, and tailored education. Her clients include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Securities and Exchange Commission, US Marshals Service, US Customs and Border Protection, law firms, gem and jewellery corporations, museums, and collectors.
Conference Registration
Registration is now open, with one- and two-day passes available. Special discounted rates apply for NAJ and IRV members.
Ticket Prices:
Registration is now open, with one- and two-day tickets available. Special discounted rates apply for NAJ and IRV members.
NAJ/IRV Members
Two-day ticket: £390 + VAT
One-day ticket: £255 + VAT
Non-Members
Two-day ticket: £440 + VAT
One-day ticket: £395 + VAT
On-site accommodation is available at a reduced delegate rate for Saturday night.
The first day of the Conference features six keynote talks from leading experts across the jewellery and watch sectors. Day two offers in-depth masterclasses and workshops, providing hands-on experience and specialist insight.
Saturday evening concludes with a three-course gala dinner, where the prestigious David Wilkins Award will be presented, as well as celebrating new MIRV and FIRV members.
Sammantha Maclachlan, IRV Vice Chair and Chair of the Valuers’ Conference Panel, concludes, “We are delighted to announce the first group of international speakers at this year’s Valuers’ Conference. With more names and an exciting range of workshops and masterclasses to announce soon, we look forward to welcoming you all on the 7th June.”
More information:
🌐 https://www.naj.co.uk/Valuers-Conference
