Rare tiara worn by first female MP to go on auction for over £350,000
Nancy Aston's tiara was made up of precious gems such as diamonds
Last updated 29th May 2025
A rare tiara worn by the first woman to sit in Parliament as an MP is to go under the hammer.
The tiara - which is mostly made of precious gems such as diamonds and turquoise - was worn by Nancy Astor, who represented Plymouth Sutton.
Astor - also known as Viscountess Astor - was an American-British aristocrat and politician, who first entered Westminster in 1919 and served her constituency until 1945.
During her time in politics, Astor went on to become a renowned figure for calling for further rights for women in parliament and education, as well as calling for welfare reform.
Auctioneers say that the tiara is "exceptionally rare" - having been seen on the open market for the first time since it was bought back in 1930.
The tiara has been estimated to sell for anywhere between £250,000 to £350,000 - though bids could rise above this figure.
Speaking on the item, Jean Ghika from Bonhams Auctioneers - who is selling the tiara - said that the headpiece is the star of the show ahead of the auction it is being listed at.
"The design of Nancy Astor's tiara is truly unique. The distinctive plumes, leaves and scrolls carved in turquoise were drawn from Egyptian, Indian and Persian motifs, which were extensively explored by Cartier throughout the early 20th century," she explained.
"The firm's Eastern inspired jewels became hugely fashionable as a result. The tiara hasn't been seen on the market since Lord Astor purchased it from Cartier in 1930.
"With impeccable provenance and a compelling marriage of Western and Eastern influences in the design, the tiara is exceptionally rare, and we feel honoured to have the opportunity to present it for sale for the first time in nearly a century."
The tiara is set to be sold during an auction that will take place next month.