The Abernethy Pearl, found in 1967 by Scotland’s last pearl fisherman, William (Bill) Abernethy, will be auctioned by Lyon & Turnbull on Wednesday 21 August.

Weighing 43.6 grains, the Abernethy Pearl – also affectionately known as ‘Little Willie’ – is believed to have been growing in its mussel for more than 80 years before it was found.

“It is interesting to think that 80 years prior to Bill plucking it from the water, was the Golden Jubilee year of 1887, evoking images of Queen Victoria tramping the heather with her pony Fyvie and servant John Brown while the pearl was quietly growing,” Lyon & Turnbull said.

The pearl was sold by Bill to jewellers Cairncross of Perth, which closed its doors in summer 2023.

Ruth Davis, head of jewellery at Lyon & Turnbull, said: “The Cairncross Collection offers a final opportunity to obtain a piece of Perthshire history… The Abernethy Pearl is, of course, the star of the sale.”