The central hub of the pearl trade

Bahraini pearls once dominated global markets, adorning the crowns, robes and necks of royalty across continents. For centuries, Bahrain served as the heart of the natural pearl trade, exporting its treasures to India, Persia, Europe and beyond. Historical accounts from around the world, transcribe Bahrain’s reputation for producing some of the most lustrous and high-quality pearls that are unmatched. The unique characteristics of these pearls, their warmth and subtle iridescence are a result of the species of oyster they come from the Pinctada radiata oyster, which is native to the shallow and pristine waters of the Gulf. 

Entire coastal communities thrived on the rhythm of the pearling season. With no modern equipment; divers plunged into the sea with a nose clip, weighted stones and a rope-risking their lives for the promise of treasure.

By the 19th century, Bahrain had established itself as the central marketplace for natural pearls. Traders and merchants would travel from across the Indian Ocean, East Africa, and Europe to secure pearls from the souqs of Manama and Muharraq. The Souqs became cosmopolitan centers of commerce, diplomacy and vibrant culture.

What gives Bahraini pearls an edge? 

Beyond their unique hues and luster, the secret lay in the integrity of the trade. Pearl merchants operated with honor, guided by principles passed down through generations. At MATTAR, this tradition lives on. Our ancestors, among Bahrain’s earliest pearl traders, helped forge a reputation for quality, trust and authenticity that continues to define not only our identity but the identity of the island. 

However, Bahrain’s dominance was challenged with the rise of cultured pearls in the 1930s. Introduced by the Japanese, cultured pearls flooded global markets. Bahrain stood firm and stuck to their values and integrity. In a bold move to protect its natural pearl industry, the Bahraini government outlawed the sale of cultured pearls in 1933, a law that remains in place to this day. This act preserved Bahrain's dedication to purity and tradition, even in the face of changing times.

Today, natural pearls are rarer than ever, yet the demand from connoisseurs, collectors and high end jewelry maisons remains, because natural pearls carry a story. Each is a chapter in the history of the sea and Bahrain remains one of its greatest authors.

Authenticity shines brighter

At MATTAR, we continue to honor this story. Our pieces don’t just showcase pearls, they celebrate the legacy. Each design is an extension of the journey that began generations ago when Bahrain first offered its treasures to the world. As the global spotlight turns once again toward authenticity and sustainability, the world is rediscovering what Bahrain has known all along: that true beauty lies in nature’s unrepeatable masterpieces.

Bahrain may be a small island country, but its role in shaping the global pearl trade is monumental. Through storm and shine, tradition and transformation, Bahrain has remained the soul of the natural pearl world. 

As guardians of that heritage, we invite you to join us in cherishing the past and shaping the future of these natural born wonders.

Map of the Arabian Gulf with historical Pearling fisheries marked