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The pearl hunter. Saudi Arabia, 1935.
The incredible radiance of Arabian pearls is due to the unique environment in which the shellfish live. The water in the Arabian Gulf is salty and sweet at the same time, that is why the mother–of–pearl, the inner layer of the shells, is much brighter and more saturated in local pearls than in Europe.
The extraction of pearls in the waters of the Persian Gulf began about 7,000 years ago, as evidenced by the triangular stone anchors found on its bottom with holes in the middle – they were used on boats of fishermen and divers, and the first written mentions of outlandish pearls from the East can be found in the works of ancient authors of the III-IV centuries BC. Later, stories about pearls appeared on the pages of the Koran, and there its value was emphasized, which is justified – even then it was valued all over the world as the best precious stones.
Pearls from the Arabian Gulf began to come the European market in large numbers after 1643, when Dutch merchants arrived in Bahrain. Curiously, for a long time, Arab treasures continued to reach Europe not directly, but through Baghdad, from where pearl buyers came to Arab countries.
Pearl markets appeared in Gulf countries in the 18th century, and it was the period when the demand for valuable goods increased significantly. People who lived there went to mine pearls. From 3,000 to 4,000 boats went out to the sea during the season, and by the beginning of the 20th century, 75,000 residents of the Gulf coast worked as divers. It almost a quarter of the entire local population.
Divers worked in shifts. In mid-May, they set off on a dhow boat on an expedition that ended in early or mid-September. The fishermen lived on boats all the time, eat rice and fish only, had just a basket for clams, a knife and a nose clip as the equipment.
For the average pearl diver, an expedition was considered incredibly successful, when at the end he received enough money to acquire ownership of a plot and finally settle on solid ground. However, few people lived to see this, because divers often became prey to predatory fish, and constant exposure to salt water and sudden pressure drops from endless dives provoked blindness and deafness.
In the 1950s, prices for Persian Gulf pearls jumped again, and in the early 20th century, demand began to actively exceed supply. And some, especially stubborn fishermen, went out to sea in winter, because the sale of pearls extracted after the official end of the season was not taxed.
But then the unexpected happened. In faraway Japan suddenly learned how to grow pearls in an artificial environment, and the prices of the precious commodity plummeted. Then World War II began, and people finally had no time for pearls, after oil deposits were discovered in the Arabian Gulf countries, and everyone reasonably thought: why risk your life to look for treasures at the bottom of the sea, if they literally lie under your feet?
Sokols in the UAE and Saudi Arabia: A Cultural Treasure
The tradition of falconry is deeply rooted in the cultures of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, symbolizing pride, honor, and a profound connection to nature. These magnificent birds, known for their incredible speed and hunting prowess, have been an integral part of life in the Arabian Peninsula for centuries.
Types of Falcons in the Region
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus):
The Peregrine Falcon is renowned for being the fastest bird in the world. Found in the skies of both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, these falcons are highly sought after for falconry due to their remarkable hunting skills.
Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug):
Known for its strength and endurance, the Saker Falcon is a favorite among falconers. This species thrives in the open landscapes of the Arabian region, making it a vital part of the falconry heritage.
Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus):
The Gyrfalcon is the largest falcon species and is admired for its beautiful plumage and hunting ability. This majestic bird is rarely found in the warmer climates of the UAE and Saudi Arabia but is sometimes used in falconry due to its impressive size and strength.
Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus):
The Lanner Falcon is another common species used in falconry within these countries. Its versatility and adaptability make it a popular choice among local falconers.
The Importance of Falconry
Falconry is not just a sport; it embodies the essence of Arab culture and heritage. In both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, falconry is a cherished pastime that promotes a deep respect for nature and wildlife. The bond between a falconer and their bird is built on trust and companionship, showcasing the intricate relationship humans can have with these majestic creatures.
Moreover, falconry events and competitions have gained popularity, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. The UAE, in particular, hosts the prestigious Abu Dhabi Falconry Championship, which highlights the skill of both the falcons and their trainers.
Conclusion
Falcons are more than just birds of prey in the UAE and Saudi Arabia; they are a living symbol of tradition, pride, and the rich cultural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula. As falconry continues to thrive, it plays a significant role in preserving the fascinating relationship between humans and nature, capturing the hearts of all who appreciate these magnificent birds.
