The story of Bahrain’s pearls stretches back in the mists of time. For millennia the oyster banks around the Arabian Gulf dominated all others, and the headquarters for the pearl trade was Bahrain. Pearl diving in the region dates from the Dilmun and Tylos periods (2200 BCE–300 CE), names for Bahrain in ancient times, when the island was already a center for international trade. Pearls powered the economy of the island kingdom for centuries, and Bahrain’s importance as a center for natural pearls is reflected in the nation’s culture. Today, the streets of Muharraq bustle with locals and visitors passing by the long-standing merchants’ courtyards and houses preserved on the UNESCO World Heritage site titled Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy.Since the dawn of civilization, the Arabian Gulf region has been famous for its high-quality natural pearls, and today in this age of lab-grown gems astute jewel aficionados are appreciating anew the importance of Bahrain’s precious natural pearls. Bahrain is one of the only places in the world that does not allow cultured pearls but harvests only natural pearls from protected oyster beds, fostering multigenerational families who proudly continue to create stunning jewelry with these rare gems from the sea.Available in Classic and Ultimate Collection formats, Bahrain Pearls narrates the deep history of pearl diving, trading, and jewelry making in Bahrain, from the ancient Dilmun civilization to modern times. With evocative narrative text and gorgeous photography, this volume showcases the craftsmanship and artistry that define Bahrain’s rich pearl heritage and the country’s unique cultural legacy.
Cover materials
Handcrafted volume in a luxury silk clamshell case
ISBN
9781649805027
Weight
20.0 lb
Brand: Assouline
A WORD FROM THE FOUNDERSWe created this company to be the first luxury brand on culture. We wanted to supply everything for a contemporary library; we started working with top perfumers for scented candles, with Goyard for a book trunk, with Chanel on a quilted leather slipcase, and so on. Now we are expanding the Assouline lifestyle brand in stores in the most important cities of the world. We love and believe in books more than everything else, but we also want to extend our vision to create all that can be expected in a chic and personalized library, from beautiful books and special editions to luxury gift items, unique library accessories, and now a complete turnkey collection of stylish furniture. Our digital world goes faster than ever and nothing remains of it, but books are the solid part of our past and present. They also are beauty. For us, books are a matter of intellect and emotion, of heritage and innovation. Because information is not only about today, and the past is a sensational source of inspiration.-Prosper & Martine AssoulineTHE BRANDFounded in Paris in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline is the first luxury brand on culture. It began with the desire to create a new, contemporary style of book, using the couple's experienced eye for visually rich stories and compelling narratives.Guided by their passion for knowledge, culture and travel, the Assoulines have since expanded their vision to 1,700 titles in three main collections, along with special editions and unique library accessories—a grand oeuvre of inspiring creations. Throughout the last quarter of a century, the brand has established a network of international boutiques in prominent locations across the globe. Assouline has also inaugurated a curated library service, working closely with clients to visualize, design, and develop bespoke, one-of-a-kind libraries.With a distinguished team of creative talents—which includes the founders' son Alexandre—the brand continues to reinvent the notion of true luxury. Assouline’s roster of collaborators includes some of the world’s most respected brands, artists, photographers, writers and designers.Assouline continues to exude an unparalleled signature style and elegant savoir faire, which has globally redefined modern publishing.