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Astor be worth it - A stunning pendant owned by Britain's trailblazing first female MP has emerged for sale for £20,000.

The huge Edwardian aquamarine and diamond gem belonged to fabulously rich American born Nancy Astor who was elected to the House of Commons in 1919.

The striking jewel was bought in 1910 when Nancy and her husband Waldorf were living at their country pile Cliveden in Buckinghamshire.

The vast estate had been gifted to the couple as a wedding present in 1906 by Waldorfs billionaire father William.

Nancy is famous for her sharp exchanges with Churchill, in one reported exchange, Lady Astor said to Churchill, "If you were my husband, I'd poison your tea," to which he responded, "Madam, if you were my wife, I'd drink it."

The unique gem has now been consigned for sale by Viscountess Astor's great-granddaughter at Dreweatts auction house of Newbury, Berks.

The Belle Epoque jewel is 4ins in length with a mounting in platinum fronted gold.

James Nicholson, deputy chairman of Dreweatts, said: "This brooch is the epitome of the finest Edwardian Belle Epoque jewellery, fashionable in the early 20th century's 'Age of Elegance' just before the outbreak of the First World War.