Long before man knew about oil, he knew about--and coveted--pearls. A
new book about the pearl trade and the gems' role in the commerce of
the Emirates is about to be published, and, from the early buzz,
promises to be a fascinating read for jewelry lovers and history buffs
everywhere.
The Pearl Route, by Dr. Xavier Beguin-Billecocq, a historian, author,
and, up until 1988, the person responsible for legal matters
concerning the safeguard of environmental and cultural heritage at the
Ectricite' de France (whatever that is), traces the pearl fishing
route, which developed in the Emirates more than 4,500 years ago and
grew into a worldwide trade network.
The book also highlights the harvesting of pearls, distribution
networks, trade practices, and how pearl lust became a worldwide
phenomenon.
Beguin-Billecocq's fascination with the region, especially Abu Dhabi,
which he feels does the best job of preserving the culture, began when
he saw a photo of his grandfather, who lived in Muscat in the early
1900s. Beguin-Billecocq has traveled extensively throughout Oman, the
UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
I'll keep you posted on the publication of this fascinating pearl book.
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