the pearl diving industry
The pearl diving industry involves the collection of pearls from oysters found in oceans and seas. Divers, often called pearl divers, search for these valuable gems, which form inside oysters as a defense mechanism against irritants. Historically, this practice has been significant in regions like Japan, the Persian Gulf, and Australia, where natural pearls were highly sought after.
With the rise of cultured pearls, the industry has evolved. Cultured pearls are created by inserting a small bead or piece of tissue into an oyster, prompting it to produce a pearl. This method has made pearls more accessible and affordable, transforming the market and reducing the reliance on wild pearl diving.