I found a damaged diamond engagement ring in a sock – I was speechless when I learned it was worth more than a car

TWO guests left speechless as hidden ring is valued at £20,000

Viewers of last night's episode of Antiques Roadshow were in for a shocking surprise when two guests brought in a diamond engagement ring they had found hidden inside a sock. To their amazement, jewellery specialist Joanna Hardy revealed that the ring was worth a staggering £20,000 - more than the price of a car.

Valuable ring discovered by chance in sock drawer

The ring, slightly damaged but still of significant worth, turned out to be a family heirloom. The first guest explained, "The ring was my mum's. We're pretty sure it was given to her by my late-grandfather. We were helping her, clearing out stuff, and in the sock drawer we stumbled upon this ring that was wrapped up in a sock."

Jewellery specialist shocked by the sock discovery

Joanna Hardy, the jewellery expert on the show, was taken aback when she learned where the ring had been found. She speculated about the potential dangers the ring faced, saying, "You could have just given it to charity!"

Stunning diamond ring with a hint of sophistication

Joanna examined the diamond ring closely, describing it as a transitional cut made in 1915 from platinum. She praised its "air of sophistication", comparing it to the more "brash" modern brilliant cuts. The ring also boasted a nearly perfect clarity, with the only issue being a slightly misaligned claw holding the diamond.

Valued at £20,000 at auction

Despite its minor flaw, Joanna estimated that the ring would fetch £20,000 at an auction - a value that left the guests stunned. One of them exclaimed, "Wow! Oh gosh! I better get that claw fixed quickly then!" while the other was left speechless.

Host Fiona Bruce faces criticism over "new look" format

This discovery of the valuable ring comes in the wake of criticism faced by Antiques Roadshow's host, Fiona Bruce, over the show's "new look" format. Some viewers expressed their dissatisfaction with Bruce's increased presence and involvement in the show. However, despite the criticism, the program continues to captivate audiences and reveal hidden treasures.

Antiques Roadshow can be watched on BBC iPlayer and its next episode airs on Sunday at 8pm on BBC1.