Clémence Mérat joins Bonhams as Senior Jewellery Specialist, enhancing their luxury auction reach across Italy, France, and the UK.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

Bonhams, a leading global auction house, has appointed Clémence Mérat as Senior Jewellery Specialist. Her appointment is effective immediately.

This strategic move highlights Bonhams’ commitment to expanding in continental Europe. Mérat will be based in Rome, Italy—a growing center for luxury and fine art in the Mediterranean.

Mérat brings over 15 years of experience in the jewellery industry. Her background spans auction houses, high-end retail, and brand development. She adds deep expertise and strategic insight to Bonhams’ global Jewellery team. Her arrival reinforces the company’s focus on delivering excellence in fine jewellery auctions and solidifying its position in the luxury auction market.

Academic Excellence and Global Credentials

Clémence Mérat was born in France. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from I.E.S.A. (Institut d’Études Supérieures des Arts). She continued her studies with a Master’s degree at La Sorbonne University in Paris.

She later moved to London and completed the final year of her Master’s program at the London School of Economics (LSE), one of the world’s top institutions for social sciences and economics.

In 2011, Mérat received her Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in London. Her academic path combined art history, economics, and gemology. This multidisciplinary foundation makes her a leading expert in high-value jewellery evaluation and curation.

A Distinguished Career in Jewellery

Mérat began her career in London at William & Son. This British luxury brand is known for fine jewellery, silverware, and timepieces. As Head of Jewellery for seven years, she strengthened the brand’s market position and curated collections that appealed to diverse clients.

Afterward, she founded NYF Jewellery, an independent brand focused on artisanal craftsmanship and modern design. Her venture demonstrated her strength in branding, market strategy, and product development.

In 2021, Mérat moved to Italy and joined Catawiki, a major online auction platform in Europe. As Category Lead for New Jewellery, she led category growth, curation, valuation, and vendor development across markets.

Expertise in Craftsmanship, Valuation, and Market Insight

Mérat holds advanced knowledge in gemstones, provenance research, design history, and luxury market trends. She evaluates high-value pieces with precision and advises on acquisitions.  Also, she curates auctions that blend historical depth with market relevance.

She is known for creating compelling narratives around jewellery. Her approach connects each piece to its cultural roots while emphasizing its appeal to modern collectors. This dual focus—heritage and commercial value—distinguishes her as a specialist. It also makes her a strong asset for Bonhams’ global auction strategy.

A Key Addition to Bonhams’ Vision

Bonhams continues to grow its global reach. The company is known for local expertise, international scope, and record-setting auctions. With Mérat in Rome, Bonhams deepens its presence in the Mediterranean. Clients in Italy and neighboring countries will now access top-tier jewellery services.

Mérat shared her enthusiasm for the role, stating:

“Bonhams’ recent expansion has made it one of the most accessible auction houses in the world with strong local roots. The Bonhams global Jewellery team comprises a close-knit team of specialists renowned for their professionalism, expertise and delivering strong results. I am honoured to be joining one of the most entrepreneurial auction houses.”

Industry Recognition and Leadership Support

Bonhams’ leadership welcomed Mérat’s appointment. Catherine Yaiche, Bonhams’ European Director, commented:

“I am delighted to welcome Clémence at Bonhams. Her 15 years’ experience in jewellery product development, purchasing, valuation and appraisals gained in auction houses and luxury brands and gem dealing are a great asset for Bonhams. I look forward to working with her.”

This endorsement reflects her reputation in the industry and the high expectations for Bonhams’ jewellery business in Europe.

Strategic Impact on Global Jewellery Operations

Bonhams operates with a global team and a growing client base of collectors and connoisseurs. The company is positioned to meet increasing demand for fine and rare jewellery. Mérat’s addition will strengthen Bonhams’ capacity to source, appraise, and market jewellery in key regions, including Italy, France, and the UK.

In today’s luxury market, auction houses must offer more than provenance and price. They must build trust, ensure authenticity, and present jewellery with investment potential and compelling stories. Mérat’s skills align with this vision and will help Bonhams stay ahead in a competitive landscape.

A New Chapter for Bonhams Jewellery

The appointment of Clémence Mérat as Senior Jewellery Specialist marks a new era for Bonhams. Her academic background, professional experience, and international reach position her as a key figure in the future of the company’s jewellery auctions.

Her base in Rome strengthens Bonhams’ strategy of local expansion with global influence. Clients in Southern Europe and beyond can now engage with a leading jewellery expert supported by one of the world’s most respected auction houses.