Joseph Bonnar Jewellers collection at Fellows

The entire collection from the esteemed Joseph Bonnar Jewellers in Edinburgh, after its proprietor’s retirement,  looks set to shine in Birmingham auction house Fellows Auctioneers’ sale on October 23.

While the auction comprises over 450 lots, all eyes will be on a pearl necklace, worn by prominent model, actress and activist April Ashley. 

The necklace has multiple strands of grey cultured pearls which are accented by delicate rose and olive overtones. Each button-shaped pearl measures approximately 22.3mm and is estimated at £380-480.

Born in 1935 in Liverpool, April Ashley became one of the first British people to undergo gender-affirming surgery, later becoming a prominent model, actress, and activist. 

It was her involvement in a pivotal legal case that had a lasting impact on trans rights. After her marriage to British aristocrat Arthur Corbett ended, Corbett sought an annulment in 1970, arguing Ashley was legally male. The case, Corbett v Corbett, resulted in a ruling that nullified their marriage and set a precedent preventing transgender individuals from changing their birth certificates. This ruling stood until the 2004 Gender Recognition Act. 

Ashley became a vocal advocate for trans rights, promoting understanding and acceptance. In recognition of her work, she was awarded an MBE in 2012 for services to equality. Her life and contributions were celebrated in a 2013 exhibition at the Museum of Liverpool. 

Paul Greer, International Head of Jewellery at Fellows, said: “We are delighted to be offering this necklace that the amazing April Ashley modelled in our Joseph Bonnar auction, Ashley was a remarkable person who overcame incredible difficulties during her life.”