SCCI Launches First ‘Rare Natural Pearls’ Exhibition
Sharjah: The Emirati Goldsmiths Platform, an initiative by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) to support young Emirati talents in the gold and jewellery design industry, is set to launch the ‘Rare Natural Pearls’ Exhibition in Sharjah. The exhibition will be part of the sixth edition of the Jewels of Emirates Show, scheduled to be held at Expo Centre Sharjah from 29th January to 2nd February 2025.
According to Emirates News Agency, this exhibition, held in partnership with “Suwaidi Pearls,” a leader in reviving the splendor of Emirati pearls, marks the first of its kind in Sharjah. It will showcase a stunning array of the finest and rarest natural pearl pieces in the emirate, including silver and gold varieties of unique shapes and sizes, all distinguished by their quality, clarity, and shine.
The exhibition will feature heritage and cultural activities dedicated to pearling culture and the cultural heritage of the pearling industry, alongside a display of traditional tools used for natural pearl diving. The event will also announce the winner of the “Best Natural Pearl Jewellery Set Design” competition, which saw participation from Emirati designers registered with the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform.
Contestants competed to craft jewellery pieces using Emirati pearls of “Gioon” quality and “Sangbasie” shades, consisting of a necklace and two luxury pearl earrings. Participants will demonstrate artistic innovation, echoing the craftsmanship and heritage of Emirati artisans and forefathers.
A panel discussion titled “The UAE: The Coast of Pearls Through the Ages” will document the historical role of the UAE’s coasts in supplying premium-quality pearls globally and shaping the global pearl trade. The session will shed light on pearl diving, a part of Emirati heritage, featuring contributions from experts in the field.
Distinguished speakers include Mr. Abdulla Rashed Al Suwaidi, a leading Arabian pearl diver and trader, who will share practices from this timeless profession; Dr. Ali Saqr Al Suwaidi, who will explore storytelling traditions from historical pearl diving seasons; and Dr. Sultan Al Amimi, a literary scholar and critic, who will delve into the poetry and cultural significance of Emirati pearls.
Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI, remarked that the ‘Rare Natural Pearls Exhibition’ is a significant addition to the series of specialised exhibitions in the jewellery and gemstones sector hosted by Sharjah. He noted that the exhibition highlights Sharjah’s historical position in the pearl trade and diving industry, offering a platform to display rare marine treasures and reflecting the Chamber’s commitment to promoting maritime heritage.
Mona Sultan Al Suwaidi, Director of the Executive Office of SCCI’s Chairman and in charge of the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform, stated that the exhibition showcases the Platform’s achievements in advancing the gold, gemstones, and pearl industries locally. She affirmed the Platform’s commitment to supporting Emirati designers and professionals within Sharjah and across the UAE.
Meanwhile, Abdulla Rashed Al Suwaidi, founder of Suwaidi Pearls, emphasised that participating in this exhibition is pivotal in preserving the UAE’s heritage in pearl craftsmanship. “We are proud to showcase the quality of Emirati natural pearls and contribute to this event, shedding light on Sharjah’s history of pearl diving and trade,” he stated.