Normal People star Paul Mescal is auctioning off one of his famous chains to raise money for a mental health charity

Vogue called the necklace the “most erotically charged prop” on TV. (Credit: Getty Images)Vogue called the necklace the “most erotically charged prop” on TV. (Credit: Getty Images)
Vogue called the necklace the “most erotically charged prop” on TV. (Credit: Getty Images)

Fans of hit BBC drama, Normal People, now have the chance to bid on Connell Waldron's iconic silver chain necklace in a charity raffle.

The chain is being sold by lead actor Paul Mescal, who plays Connell in the show, to help support mental health charity Pieta House.

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The decision came after the actor was praised for his portrayal of mental health issues in the show.

The 'most erotically charged prop on TV’

The show is based on the 2018 novel by Sally Rooney, which became a New York Times and international best seller.

In the book, the chain is symbolic of the class divide between the two protagonists, Connell and Marianne who - despite their differences - become lovers. The chain gained its cult status due to its presence in the show’s many sex scenes between the couple.

Mescal took to Instagram on Monday night to announce the raffle of his character’s necklace, made by Jeweller Roxanne First.

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“In light of ep 9 and 10 airing on BBC and RTÉ today and tomorrow, episodes that deal with mental health and suicide, I've decided to support @pieta.house,” he wrote.

“I've personally seen the amazing work this charity has done in terms of helping those in need. I will be raffling one of my chains by @roxannefirst and all proceeds will be going to pieta. Anything you can do to support will be greatly appreciated.”

The character’s chain caused quite a reaction from viewers, with Vogue claiming the necklace has become the “most erotically charged prop” on TV. An Instagram account set up in its honour has amassed more than 163,000 followers.

How can I make a bid?

A few hours after the raffle went live, the total raised had already reached over €11,000. It has since reached €18,758, at the time of writing. You can make a bid for the chain here.

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The entries cost anywhere from €10 to €50, with €10 giving you 10 entries, and €50 giving you 60 entries.

Argos sales increased thanks to Normal People

The necklace is a simple silver chain, and is described as “Argos chic”, in the book which the TV show is based on.

Since the release of the popular show, Argos has revealed sales of male jewellery have surged up to 130 per cent, and searches for their men's chains have rocketed by 56 per cent.