A Birmingham writer has extended her remarkable run of luck in the city's charity shops, this time uncovering a sterling silver locket at Birmingham Hospice's Bournville boutique that is worth nearly £100 more than the £9 she paid for it.
The locket, which features delicate floral etchings, initially appeared to be costume jewellery. Closer inspection revealed it was hallmarked 925 sterling silver, with an excerpt from Shakespeare's Sonnet 116 engraved on the back. The discovery came during a visit to the hospice's boutique in Bournville, a shop the writer described as Birmingham's 'most charming' charity shop.
From Harborne Handbag to Bournville Locket
This latest find follows a previous success in Harborne, where the writer found a significantly undervalued handbag. That discovery was inspired by the story of a first edition Hobbit that sold for £38,400, which prompted her to start hunting for bargains more seriously. She had also pledged to donate items to Birmingham Hospice, believing in the power of good karma.
After researching the locket online, the writer discovered it was selling for nearly £100 more than she had paid. Reflecting on the find, she quoted Shakespeare, saying: "My bounty was as boundless as the sea, as William might have said."
Treasure Hunting in the Digital Age
The writer admitted she had thought "the days of finding real treasure were long behind us," given how easy it is for shopkeepers to check prices online. However, her recent experiences have proven that genuine bargains still exist in Birmingham's charity shops, even in an era of instant price comparisons.
With Birmingham Hospice preparing to open a new charity shop in the Bullring, the writer plans to make more regular visits and donations. "That's the trick, I'm sure of it. Good karma," she said, indicating her intention to continue supporting the hospice through both purchases and contributions.
Impact on Birmingham Hospice
Birmingham Hospice operates several charity shops across the city, including the Bournville boutique where the locket was found. The upcoming Bullring location will expand the hospice's retail presence in the city centre, providing more opportunities for bargain hunters and donors alike.
The writer's continued success highlights the potential value hidden in charity shop donations, while also underscoring the importance of supporting local hospice care through retail initiatives. Her finds have not only brought personal satisfaction but also drawn attention to the quality of items available at Birmingham Hospice's shops.
