Kelly Smith

Jewellery Expert

After leaving school I started my jewellery training at Clive Ranger Jewellers. I passed the Retail Jewellers Diploma in 1998 and became an assistant manager for another jeweller a few years later. Whilst I enjoyed retail, I wanted to concentrate on a different side of the jewellery trade. Then I had the opportunity to join Helphire in November 2004.

I now advise insurance companies on the current replacement values for lost and stolen jewellery. My confidence has grown considerably since I started - I have just finished a one year gemmology course and completed three exams. It's a challenge to help customers at a difficult time when they have had a burglary, so it is rewarding when we enable them to replace their treasured items.

My manager is always available if I need any help or advice, and has helped me grow within the role. I enjoy working within my team - and we really do work as a team, which is great as we can rely on each other if any problems arise. Everyone is really friendly which makes for an enjoyable working atmosphere. In the long term I want to continue furthering my knowledge and concentrate on a specialist area in jewellery.