Joseph Bonnar Jewellers, an Edinburgh institution for 50 years, is closing its doors as owner Joseph Bonnar enters retirement. The renowned jeweller, who started as a window dresser at Jenners in 1970, built his reputation through exceptional craftsmanship and unique pieces, including the historic Balmoral jet collection. His prestigious collection, featuring Art Deco artefacts and rare imperial topaz, will be auctioned at Fellows' Jewellery Quarter on 23 October 2024. The sale marks the end of an age for Edinburgh's luxury jewellery trade, with viewing opportunities in London and Birmingham offering collectors a chance to own part of this remarkable legacy.

Main Highlights

• Joseph Bonnar, Edinburgh's renowned jeweller, retires after 50 years in business, marking the end of his prestigious establishment.
• The entire collection will be auctioned at Fellows' Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham on 23rd October 2024.
• The sale includes historic Balmoral jet pieces, Art Deco artefacts, and rare items from the estate of Marquess Dalhousie.
• Bonnar started as a Jenners window dresser at 16 and built his reputation through exceptional craftsmanship and expertise.
• The auction features viewing opportunities in London and Birmingham, with both in-person and online bidding options available.

A Heritage of Luxury

A cornerstone of Edinburgh's fine jewellery trade, Joseph Bonnar Jewellers has left an indelible mark on the industry during its remarkable 50-year run. The establishment's timeless elegance and commitment to exquisite craftsmanship earned it international recognition, including the prestigious Specialist Dealer award at the 2003 British Antiques and Collectables Awards.

Under Bonnar's expert guidance, the shop became more than just a jewellery store – it transformed into a celebrated institution, garnering attention from renowned publications like Harper's Bazaar and The Scotsman. His deep knowledge of antique and period jewellery set him apart in the competitive luxury market. The upcoming auction at Fellows Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham will showcase his lifetime of expertise. The shop's welcoming atmosphere created lasting friendships among collectors who frequently gathered to share their passion for fine jewellery.

The collection's historical significance is evident in its exceptional pieces, from rare imperial topaz to stunning Art Deco designs. Notable items include opal and diamond tiaras and artefacts from the estate of the 1st Marquess of Dalhousie.

A fascinating revelation of jet pieces with connections to Balmoral Castle further enriched the shop's legacy. Each item in the collection underwent meticulous research and preservation, ensuring its historical value remained intact for future generations.

From Window Dresser to Legend

Joseph Bonnar's remarkable expedition in the jewellery trade began humbly at the age of 16 as a window dresser at Jenners department store. His quest into the world of precious gems started when an antiques market opened opposite his flat in 1970, sparking one of his most significant passion projects. By 1972, he had transformed his hobby into a full-time career as an antique jewellery dealer. His sharp wit and engaging customer interactions became legendary throughout Edinburgh's jewellery community.

The shop quickly became known for transformative experiences, where Bonnar's philosophy centred on making people feel extraordinary through carefully curated pieces. His keen eye for historical significance led to remarkable acquisitions, including jewellery from the estate of the 1st Marquess of Dalhousie and a notable collection of Balmoral jet. The showroom, adorned with photos of friends and clients, reflected his commitment to creating a welcoming space where jewellery enthusiasts could unearth unique gems. After an illustrious career spanning five decades, the striking triple window storefront that became synonymous with luxury jewellery in Edinburgh is now on the market.

The Balmoral Connection

The remarkable discovery of a shoebox containing historic Balmoral jet pieces stands as one of Joseph Bonnar's most significant acquisitions.

These rare items, uncovered among the estate of a notable figure connected to Balmoral Castle, showcase the deep royal provenance that makes them extraordinarily valuable to collectors and historians alike.

Since 1852, Balmoral has served as a beloved royal residence, adding considerable weight to the historical significance of these jet pieces.

The Balmoral jets, which form a highlight of Bonnar's extensive collection, represent more than mere decorative items – they are tangible links to Britain's royal heritage and the celebrated estate's rich history.

These precious artefacts are now part of "The Joseph Bonnar Collection," scheduled for auction by Fellows Auctioneers in October 2024.

Their inclusion in this prestigious sale underscores both their historical importance and Bonnar's expertise in identifying and preserving remarkable pieces.

The jets serve as a reflection of his five-decade commitment to safeguarding Britain's jewellery heritage, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own an authentic piece of royal history.

Historic Collection Under the Hammer

Spanning five decades of meticulous curation, Joseph Bonnar's historic collection went under the hammer at Fellows' Jewellery Quarter saleroom in Birmingham on 23rd October 2024.

The Thistle Street shop closed its doors for the final time, marking the end of a remarkable retail era in Edinburgh's jewellery scene.

The auction highlights showcased an impressive array of pieces, including Art Deco artefacts, sublime diamond earrings, and a remarkable imperial topaz ring. A notable shoebox of jet with links to Balmoral and an opal and diamond tiara were among the standout items.

The sale included an early 20th-century split pearl ring with an estimated value of £150-£200.

The collection's historical provenance proved particularly compelling, featuring pieces from the estate of the 1st Marquess of Dalhousie, former Governor-General of India.

Each item tells its own story, from cufflinks commemorating a famous Austro-Hungarian racehorse to an eighteenth-century mourning ring connected to an Aberdeenshire family.

The sale, viewable both online and in person at London and Birmingham offices, represented a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces from one of Edinburgh's most respected jewellers.

Stephen Whittaker, Managing Director & Auctioneer at Fellows, emphasised the significance of handling such an esteemed collection, which reflects Bonnar's acclaimed career and his recognition as BACA's Specialist Dealer in Jewellery.

Viewing and Bidding Details

With extensive viewing opportunities available, the prestigious Joseph Bonnar collection auction offers multiple preview dates across both London and Birmingham locations.

Interested parties can examine the collection in London from 15-17 October, with Birmingham viewings scheduled for 21-22 October. A final viewing takes place on auction day, 23 October, from 8:30-10:00 AM, requiring photo ID for entry. Virtual Zoom appointments are also available for those unable to attend in person.

The auction logistics have been carefully planned to accommodate diverse bidding preferences. Collectors can participate in person at Fellows' Birmingham saleroom or join remotely through LiveAuctioneers' online platform. A 3% surcharge plus VAT applies to all live bidding transactions.

The bidding process follows a structured increment system, starting at £2 for items under £50, with increases adjusted according to higher-value lots. A buyer's premium of 30% applies to all successful bids.

The sale takes place at Fellows' Augusta House location in Birmingham, under the direction of Managing Director Stephen Whittaker.

This single-owner collection auction represents a unique opportunity to acquire pieces from Joseph Bonnar's carefully curated inventory, marking the end of a period as the renowned jeweller enters retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Security Measures Were in Place at Joseph Bonnar's Thistle Street Location?

Specific security protocols and theft prevention measures at the Thistle Street location are not detailed in the available information, though standard jewellery store protections likely included barriers and surveillance systems.

Did Joseph Bonnar Train Any Apprentices During His Career?

While Joseph Bonnar's expertise in antique jewellery was renowned, there is no documented evidence of formal apprenticeship programmes or structured skill development initiatives throughout his distinguished fifty-year career in jewellery.

What Was the Most Expensive Item Ever Sold at the Shop?

Based on available information, the highest-value sales and customer testimonials from Joseph Bonnar Jewellers remain undisclosed, as specific records of individual piece transactions were not publicly documented.

How Did Joseph Bonnar Authenticate and Value Historical Jewellery Pieces?

Professional jewellers like Bonnar authenticated pieces through rigorous historical appraisal techniques, expert gemstone identification, careful examination of hallmarks, and thorough assessment of craftsmanship details using specialised tools.

Were Any Royal Family Members Among the Shop's Regular Customers?

While rumours swirled about royal clientele and celebrity patrons, there's no direct evidence of regular royal family members shopping at Bonnar's, though the shop's collection included historically significant pieces from noble estates.

Conclusion

Like a glittering chapter closing in Edinburgh's retail history, Joseph Bonnar Jewellers' final sale marks the end of a remarkable 50-year legacy. This prestigious establishment, known for serving royalty and celebrities at its Castle Street location, has been a cornerstone of Scotland's luxury jewellery trade. The upcoming auction of its historic collection represents not only the culmination of Bonnar's career but also a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces of Edinburgh's jewellery heritage.