What is a Fellows Award?
We are proud to sponsor two awards at Birmingham City University's School of Jewellery each year. The awards reflect two main areas of the school and our business, Jewellery and Horology.
As a Jewellery Quarter-based company, we think it is important to support the School of Jewellery at Birmingham City University. In addition to the annual awards, we also offer paid internships and part-time employment opportunities to students during their studies. Many recent graduates go on to work with us in our Jewellery and Watch teams.
This year, we caught up with the Jewellery award winner, Eleanor Murphy.
Jewellery Prize: The Fellows Award 2025
As part of their degree, students can use purpose-built facilities at the Assay Office. We also often host students for practical days in industry at our Jewellery Quarter head office and saleroom.
For the assessment which Eleanor won the Fellows award, she had to complete a small portfolio of valuations on two items from a Fellows auction, both for insurance replacement and probate. There was also an exam where she had to complete valuations as well as assess hallmarks. Eleanor also had to answer questions about the principles and practice of valuations in all their forms within a narrow time frame.
Regarding winning the Fellows Award, Eleanor said
Winning the award is an incredible achievement for me. Valuation has been the path I've wanted to pursue since starting the degree, and being recognised for it has been not only validating but also a significant confidence boost. The conviction with which my coursemates told me I would win, before the awards evening, was also incredibly heart-warming.
During university, I had some significantly difficult personal circumstances, losing my father halfway through my second year. To have even finished the degree was a huge achievement to me, but to have gotten a First and to have won this award makes it even more special to me. Not only proving that gemmology and valuation were the right path for me, but also making myself and my father proud.
Eleanor is looking to pursue the BCU pathway to FoAP, with a long-term goal of becoming an IRV registered valuer.
Join the team
Fellows is one of the fastest-growing independent auction houses in the UK, holding close to 80 auctions every year. We offer excellent employment opportunities for those passionate about jewellery, watches, antiques, silver and collectables. Fellows remains a family business after over 140 years; we take pride in our friendly manner and excellent customer service. This helps to build long-term, supportive relationships with employees and clients alike.
We would be keen to hear from anyone looking to join the auction world. Visit our employment opportunities page or email us your CV and a cover letter.