Beyond Price


Book Description

Man has been intrigued by the origin of pearls, sensitive to their beauty, and convinced of their medicinal value for at least 5 cent. A mixture of folklore and observation preceded the earliest scientific inquiries. Fishing and trade commenced in S. Asia, between India and Sri Lanka and around the Persian Gulf. In W. and Central Europe, Inner Asia and China, and N. Amer. Freshwater pearls were probably known and treasured before those of marine origin. A refined nomenclature points to a long familiarity with etymologically related words for 'pearl'. Pearls were prominent among the luxury products of world trade and were high among the objectives of expeditions to the eastern and western Tropics. Illustrations.













Pearl


Book Description

From their creation in the maw of mollusks to lustrous objects of infatuation and conflict, a revealing look at pearls’ dark history. This book is a beautifully illustrated account of pearls through millennia, from fossils to contemporary jewelry. Pearls are the most human of gems, both miraculous and familiar. Uniquely organic in origin, they are as intimate as our bodies, created through the same process as we grow bones and teeth. They have long been described as an animal’s sacrifice, but until recently their retrieval often entailed the sacrifices of enslaved and indentured divers and laborers. While the shimmer of the pearl has enticed Roman noblewomen, Mughal princes, Hollywood royalty, mavericks, and renegades, encoded in its surface is a history of human endeavor, abuse, and aspiration—pain locked in the layers of a gleaming gem.




Masters of the Pearl


Book Description

Qatar is a country of spectacular contrasts: from pearl fishing, its main industry until the 1930s, to gas and oil, which generate immense wealth today; to famously being at the center of both triumph and controversy in recent years for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Almost a lifetime since he grew up in Qatar, Michael Quentin Morton writes about the country's colorful past and its astonishing present. The book is filled with stories about the people of this land: the tribes and the travelers, the seafarers and slaves--as much a part of Qatar's history as its rulers and their wealth. The opaque Arabian world guards its secrets well, but Masters of the Pearl penetrates the veil to shed light on a country that until now has defied explanation.




In the Search of the Lost Pearl


Book Description

The monograph focuses on the European freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera, which is an endangered bivalve species. Most of its populations in the Russian section of the Baltic Sea basin had never been studied, although they were known in the past to the pearl fishers. “Rediscovery” included search for the previously unknown populations, revealing the facts of population extinctions, analysis of negative impacts, elaboration of conservation measures, and revealing of regularities in distribution. Patterns of land use and river management were analyzed. The procedure of “rediscovery” was applied for other animal species of Northwest Russia, which are threatened on a global scale – thick-shelled mussel, Unio crassus; curlew Numenius arquata; black-tailed godwit, Limosa limosa; Northern Lapwing, Vanellus vanellus; European mink, Mustela lutreola; pond bat, Myotis dasycneme; Atlantic sturgeon, Acipenser sturio; and broad-clawed crayfish, Astacus astacus. The methods and principles of conservation studies were discussed. The obtained data were analyzed with respect to current global change of biosphere. The book will appeal to specialists dealing with conservation studies and activities such as red lists, river protection, and conservation of endangered species. Moreover, a part of the book represents an interest for biogerontology as it presents discredit of the popular concept on “negligible senescence.” The data on distribution of some animals in Russia will be interesting in terms of zoology and biogeography, as they are not yet sufficiently represented in the international editions. The book can be used as supplemental reading for courses in biological invasions, ecology and conservation, and biodiversity. The work also contains chapters on global processes (deforestation, desertification, river degradation) and can therefore also be used for general courses in environmental sciences.




Beyond the Pearl Fishery


Book Description

Dive Deep into the Thriving Economy of the Pandya Dynasty: Pearls, Spices, and Beyond The Pandya dynasty, a powerful force in South India, wasn't just known for its majestic temples and rich cultural heritage. They were also shrewd economic players who established a robust trade network that left a lasting impact on the region. This comprehensive exploration delves into the secrets of the Pandya economy, taking you on a journey from fertile farmlands to bustling ports overflowing with exotic goods. Unveiling the Power of Pearls and Spices: Our voyage begins with the crown jewels of the Pandya trade – pearls and spices. We'll explore the famed pearl fisheries that brought immense wealth and prestige to the kingdom. You'll discover the cultivation, processing, and global allure of spices like pepper, cardamom, and cloves, and how the Pandyas controlled the movement of these treasures across vast distances. Beyond the Glitter: A Diversified Economic Landscape: But the Pandya economy wasn't just about pearls and spices. We'll delve into their agricultural practices, highlighting the importance of crops like rice and millets that formed the backbone of their society. You'll learn about their ingenious irrigation systems and land management techniques that ensured sustained agricultural productivity. Threads of Power: The Pandya Textile Industry: Woven with skill and imbued with cultural significance, textiles were another economic driver for the Pandyas. We'll explore the techniques employed for weaving and dyeing, the diverse range of fabrics produced, and the international demand for these exquisite textiles. Sailing the Seas of Commerce: The Pandya Trade Network: No exploration of the Pandya economy is complete without understanding their impressive maritime prowess. We'll map out their extensive trade routes, stretching from Southeast Asia to West Asia and potentially even reaching the Roman world. You'll discover the types of ships used, the challenges of navigating the seas, and the international trading partners who fueled this vibrant network. A Legacy that Endures: The Lasting Impact of the Pandyas: The Pandya economic legacy extends far beyond their reign. We'll examine how their trade routes continued to be used by later kingdoms, how their guild system influenced future commercial structures, and how their coinage system inspired the development of currencies in South India. More Than Just Trade: A Glimpse into a Thriving Society: By examining the Pandya economic system, we gain valuable insights into their social and political structures. You'll learn about the role of merchants and guilds, the taxation system that supported the kingdom, and the potential environmental considerations they may have taken into account. Join us on this captivating exploration of the Pandya Dynasty's economic world. Uncover the secrets of their success, the strategies they employed, and the enduring legacy they left behind. Let the journey begin!










Recent Books