A rare Scottish freshwater pearl, believed to be the largest of its kind in recent history, is set to be auctioned later this month. Auction house Lyon & Turnbull will present the Abernethy Pearl at its August 21 sale, with expectations that it could sell for up to GBP 60,000 ($76,666). The pearl, weighing 43.6 grains, was discovered in 1967 by William Abernethy, renowned as Scotland’s final pearl fisherman. It forms part of The Cairncross Collection, featuring pieces from the esteemed Scottish jeweler Cairncross of Perth, which ceased operations last year.
William Abernethy, trained by his father Robert in the art of pearl fishing, possessed a unique ability to discern pearl-bearing mussels based on their size and shape. According to wildlife cameraman Doug Allan, who collaborated with Abernethy, the Abernethy Pearl, affectionately known as Little Willie, likely spent over 80 years developing inside its host mussel, potentially originating during the era of Queen Victoria, Lyon & Turnbull noted.
Head of jewelry at Lyon & Turnbull, Ruth David, commented, “The Cairncross Collection represents a final chance to acquire a piece of Perthshire’s heritage.” Alongside antique jewelry such as a striking pair of 4-carat diamond-stud earrings, the collection includes modern designs from esteemed creators like Picchiotti and enameled jewels by Victor Mayer, along with a selection of Scottish river pearls. The Abernethy Pearl stands as the highlight of the auction, anticipated to attract significant interest.
While the Abernethy Pearl is the largest of its kind in recent memory, Lyon & Turnbull pointed out that the Kellie Pearl, dated to the 1540s and set in the Crown of Scotland, remains the record-holder for the largest Scottish river pearl ever discovered.
