GEOFFREY DOMINY

Meet jewellery expert Geoffrey Dominy.

Born in Belper, Derbyshire, England, Geoffrey moved to Canada when he was thirteen and finished high school in Calgary.

“In 1979, I moved to Victoria and in 1980 I started working in the Jewellery Industry,” says Geoffrey. “In 1987, I received my Fellowship in Gemmology with Distinction through the Gemmological Association and Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britain in 1987.”

Geoff has always been intrigued by antique jewellery and says that as a jewellery appraiser he has had the opportunity to examine and evaluate thousands of antique and contemporary pieces.

“Although I have a great appreciation for all types of quality jewellery, I am particularly fascinated by the design, style and craftsmanship of past generations. I also love the historical and sentimental significance of the jewellery,” he says”

“I initially got into the jewellery industry by accident,” says Geoff. “It was supposed to be an interim job, but I soon became fascinated by gemstones and decided to study to become a Gemmologist. Since then, I have worked in all facets of the business including gem mining, gem cutting, manufacturing, appraisals and retail. I have been very fortunate, over the years, to travel around the world as part of my job.”

Geoff says that the antique jewellery business is still very young in Canada .

“There are limited sources and to a large extent, a complete misunderstanding of values,” explains Geoff. “In Europe, especially England, the industry has dealt with this type of product for generations. I believe that through shows such as the Canadian Antiques Roadshow people will become more familiar with antique jewellery and we can achieve the same level of interest that currently exists abroad." As for finding things of interest during his travels with the show, Geoff says: “In general, people who own a quality piece of jewellery have it independently appraised. So from a value standpoint, there are rarely any surprises. However, unlike other items seen on the Roadshow, jewellery is normally given to commemorate a very special event in a person’s life and this is perhaps the most fascinating aspect to me. Unearthing these stories is like finding hidden treasure.”

“I think everyone likes to know the value of an item, it's human nature,” Geoff continues. “However, when it comes to jewellery, the sentimental value often far exceeds the real value of a piece and that is perhaps the hardest value to assign.”

Geoff offers this advice for someone who wants to start collecting antique jewellery:

“Always focus on quality because it never goes out of style. In the jewellery industry, rarity is also another key factor. From an investment standpoint, you need to buy at the right price and acquire an item that will increase in demand over the years. The trick is knowing which items will still be highly sought after in the years to come."

When Geoff isn’t appraising jewellery for Ashbury House, where he is Managing Director, Geoff spends his time writing, recording and performing original music.

“If I weren’t in this business, I would concentrate on my music career and start a musical production company that would give up and coming artists an opportunity to record and market their songs,” he says.

“Without question, my involvement in the Canadian Antiques Roadshow has been the highlight of my professional career. I am thrilled and delighted to meet people across the country, hear their stories and learn more about their families,” says Geoff. “I also love the interaction with the other experts and particularly the production crew who are absolutely brilliant. It is such a unique show and I feel privileged and honoured to be part of the Roadshow Team.”

“The Canadian Antiques Roadshow is a totally unique program. It is the ultimate reality TV Show. There are no scripts or actors and actresses. Our guests get the unique opportunity to watch a TV program being made before their eyes and I think that is perhaps the most exciting aspect of the show,” he continues. “In an age of, in my opinion, substandard programs, the Roadshow is a breath of fresh air. It's true family entertainment which showcases and highlights the prized possessions of everyday Canadians from coast to coast.”

Read about some of our other experts here.