Izzie Balmer is a name that has become synonymous with expertise in the world of antiques, particularly in jewellery and silver valuations. She has captured the attention of audiences not only through her role as a television presenter on popular BBC shows but also for her extensive knowledge and passion for antiques. Izzie’s journey from an academic background to becoming a well-known auctioneer and TV personality is both inspiring and impressive, and her career continues to evolve as she brings her expertise into the public eye.
Early Life and Education
Izzie Balmer was born in 1989, in Quarndon, Derbyshire, England. Growing up in a family that appreciated arts and culture, Izzie developed an early love for creativity. During her teenage years, she played the viola and was part of the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. Her early interest in music reflects a broader appreciation for craftsmanship and history — qualities that would later play a crucial role in her career as an auctioneer.
After her time in the orchestra, Izzie pursued a degree in Geography at Durham University, which laid the foundation for her ability to analyze and assess different types of data and objects. However, it was after her university studies that Izzie’s life took a turn toward the world of antiques.
Her mother, recognizing Izzie’s growing interest in the field, suggested she try an internship at a local auction house. This simple suggestion led Izzie to discover her true calling — the world of valuation, auctions, and the study of jewellery. Izzie trained as a gemmologist, gaining qualifications from the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (FGA) and later, a Diamond Graduate Diploma (DGA), which enhanced her expertise in assessing and valuing precious stones and jewellery.
Izzie Balmer Career Beginnings: From Auction Houses to Public Recognition
Izzie’s career began with humble roots, starting at Hansons Auctioneers, where she worked for several years before moving on to become the Head Valuer and Auctioneer at Wessex Auction Rooms in Wiltshire. Her role at Wessex involved specialising in jewellery and silverware, where she built a reputation for her keen eye and expertise in the field. It was during these early years in the industry that Izzie honed her skills and gained the practical experience that would later serve her well in her television career.
While Izzie was thriving in her career as a professional auctioneer, it wasn’t long before her natural charisma and expertise caught the attention of television producers. Her first TV appearance came somewhat by accident — she was asked to stand in for an expert who was unavailable for a segment on Bargain Hunt, a popular BBC show. Her performance on the show was a success, and from there, her television career blossomed.
Izzie Balmer Television Career: Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt, and More
Izzie’s rise to television prominence came with her recurring role on the BBC’s Antiques Road Trip, where she became a fan favourite due to her engaging personality, extensive knowledge of antiques, and ability to connect with the audience. On the show, she travels around the UK, appraising and auctioning off antiques while competing with fellow experts to make the most profit from their finds. Izzie’s expertise in jewellery and silver made her a standout expert on the show, and her approachable, friendly demeanor endeared her to viewers.
In addition to Antiques Road Trip, Izzie has also appeared on the Travelling Auctioneers — a show that blends her love for antiques with her auctioneering skills. On the show, Izzie works with a team of experts to auction off people’s cherished possessions, providing guidance, expert valuation, and competitive auction services. The show’s format and Izzie’s engaging on-screen presence have made it a hit with audiences, further solidifying her place in the world of television and antiques.
Izzie’s popularity has not been confined to the UK. Her role in Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip has brought her a significant following, both in the UK and internationally. She’s seen as a new face in a traditionally older industry, bringing energy, relatability, and fresh perspectives to antiques television.
Expertise and Passion for Jewellery
While Izzie’s television career has made her a household name, her passion for jewellery and silver valuation remains the cornerstone of her career. Izzie’s gemmological training allows her to offer valuable insights into the history and worth of jewellery, an expertise that has been invaluable to her career as an auctioneer and presenter. Whether she is appraising a rare diamond ring or providing a detailed history of a piece of silverware, Izzie’s ability to convey complex information in an accessible way has made her a respected authority in the field.
Her expertise extends beyond jewellery and silver; Izzie has also worked as a consultant for auction houses, helping to curate sales and provide valuations for private clients. Her well-rounded skill set in valuation, auctioneering, and presenting makes her a sought-after expert in the world of antiques.
Personal Life: Staying Private and Grounded
Izzie Balmer is known for keeping her personal life private, a decision she has made despite her increasing public profile. While she shares her professional journey and passion for antiques with her audience, she keeps details about her family life, relationships, and personal affairs out of the media spotlight. This level of privacy allows Izzie to maintain a sense of normalcy, despite her television career.
As of now, there are no public reports about Izzie’s marital status or children. She remains focused on her career, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm for antiques and valuation with her viewers, while keeping her private life shielded from the public eye.
What Sets Izzie Balmer Apart
There are several qualities that set Izzie Balmer apart in the world of antiques television:
- Expertise: With her qualifications in gemmology and diamond valuation, Izzie brings an unparalleled level of knowledge to her television appearances. Her ability to assess and appraise jewellery and silver pieces with precision is a key part of her appeal.
- Personality: Izzie’s warm and approachable manner makes her an ideal television presenter. She has a way of making complex topics accessible to her audience, all while maintaining a sense of humor and relatability.
- Fresh Energy: As a younger presenter in a field that is traditionally dominated by older experts, Izzie injects fresh energy into the antiques world. Her enthusiasm and passion for her work are contagious, and she has managed to bridge the gap between traditional antiques expertise and a younger, more diverse audience.
What’s Next for Izzie Balmer?
As of 2025, Izzie continues to thrive in her dual roles as a professional auctioneer and television presenter. With her expertise and established reputation, she is likely to remain a prominent figure in the antiques world for years to come. Whether she continues to expand her role on television or deepens her consultancy work in the auction industry, one thing is certain: Izzie Balmer’s star is on the rise, and her passion for antiques will continue to shape her career.
With her unique blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and relatability, Izzie Balmer has successfully made her mark in the world of antiques. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the BBC antiques shows or someone discovering her work for the first time, there’s no doubt that Izzie will remain an influential figure in the world of auctioneering and beyond.
Conclusion
Izzie Balmer’s rise from an academic background in geography to becoming a respected auctioneer and television personality is a testament to her versatility, passion, and commitment to her craft. Whether she’s traveling across the UK on Antiques Road Trip, evaluating priceless jewellery, or guiding audiences through the world of antiques on The Travelling Auctioneers, Izzie has proven herself as both an expert and a relatable, engaging presenter.
Her ability to combine technical knowledge with a warm, approachable on-screen persona has earned her a dedicated fanbase and made her one of the standout figures in modern antiques television. Izzie’s contributions to the antiques world go beyond television — as a qualified gemmologist and consultant, she is deeply embedded in the industry and respected for her expertise.
While Izzie keeps her personal life private, her professional life continues to flourish. With a growing presence on television and a career rooted in genuine passion for antiques, Izzie Balmer has established herself as an influential figure who brings a fresh, accessible energy to a traditionally conservative industry. Her journey serves as an inspiration for those looking to combine knowledge, creativity, and passion into a successful career in television and beyond.