Natural Pearls, a Timeless Legacy: The Alfardan Collection

This stunning, elegantly designed review is the first to highlight the unique collection of natural pearls belonging to the Alfardan family one of the oldest and most successful traditional pearl merchants in the Gulf. Divided into seven chapters, this book covers the history, development, and flourishing of the pearl industry over the centuries in unprecedented detail. From the history of pearl diving to extracting pearls as a gift for loved ones to their appearance in trade, natural pearls have been present in and deeply connected to the society of the Persian Gulf, with a cultural emphasis in the Quran, poetry, and old legends and beliefs. This lavishly illustrated volume brings together an international team of scientists, specialists in natural history, and jewellery experts under the editorial supervision of Dr. Hubert Bari to explore the origins and diversity of natural pearls. Superbly photographed, a handpicked and never-before-published selection of the most iconic and rarest pieces takes readers on an exclusive journey into this magnificent and timeless collection. This beautifully packaged book will also feature a sophisticated clothbound cover in an elegant slipcase.