Why a 10.5mm Scottish Freshwater Pearl Sold for Nearly $120,000
In a stunning event that has captured the attention of collectors and gem enthusiasts worldwide, a rare Scottish freshwater pearl, affectionately named the “Abernethy Pearl,” recently sold for an astonishing £93,951 (around $120,000). This sale not only set a record for natural Scottish pearls but also underscored the rarity and historical significance of pearls found in Scotland’s rivers(LyonTurnbull).
The Story Behind the Pearl
Discovered in 1967 by William Abernethy, Scotland’s last great pearl fisherman, the Abernethy Pearl (nicknamed “Little Willie”) weighs 43.6 grains and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind. Abernethy found this natural pearl in the River Tay, where it had likely been growing for over 80 years(Artnet News). Natural pearls like these are incredibly rare, with only about one in every 5,000 mussels producing such a gem.
What Made It So Valuable?
Several factors contributed to the high price of this freshwater pearl:
- Rarity: Scottish freshwater pearls are significantly rarer than their saltwater counterparts. The 1998 ban on pearl fishing in Scotland, aimed at protecting endangered mussel populations, means no new pearls can legally be harvested from Scotland’s rivers.
- Unique Attributes: Unlike the typically darker-hued Scottish pearls, the Abernethy Pearl has a creamy color and a near-perfect round shape, both of which are uncommon in natural pearls(nationaljeweler.com).
- Historical Legacy: The pearl’s discovery by William Abernethy, who was known for his sustainable pearl fishing methods, adds to its historical significance. Abernethy’s knowledge of pearl diving techniques allowed him to find pearls without damaging the local mussel populations, a stark contrast to the overfishing that later led to the species’ protection.
The Auction That Made Headlines
The pearl was expected to fetch around £60,000 at the Lyon & Turnbull auction in August 2024, but fierce bidding pushed the price to nearly £94,000. The buyer, also from Scotland, ensured that this piece of natural heritage would remain in its homeland.
This sale highlights the continued fascination with rare and historical pearls, and it’s a testament to the lasting value of natural gemstones in today’s market. As the world grows more aware of the environmental impacts of pearl farming, such unique, natural specimens are becoming ever more valuable.