Origin and recent developments
Thoothukudi Pearls: Thoothukudi Pearls have gained renewed attention after the Thoothukudi Muthu Urpathiyalargal Sangam applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This move aims to legally protect the identity of these historic natural pearls. GI recognition would also help preserve traditional livelihoods linked to pearl fishing.
Thoothukudi, located along the Gulf of Mannar, has been associated with pearl harvesting for more than 2,000 years. Because of this continuous tradition, the town earned the title “Pearl City.” The pearls are naturally formed without human intervention, making them rare in the modern era of cultured pearls.
Natural formation and physical features
Thoothukudi pearls are formed inside oysters found in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mannar, a region known for rich marine biodiversity. These pearls occur in round, semi-round, and button-shaped forms, reflecting natural growth conditions.
They are admired for their smooth surface, fine texture, and soft colour palette. Common shades include white, cream, pale yellow, pink, and silvery white. One of their most distinctive features is the brilliant nacreous lustre, often described as a “milky shine.”
Static GK fact: Natural pearls form when foreign particles enter an oyster, triggering layers of nacre secretion over several years.
Historical trade and global reach
Thoothukudi pearls enjoyed wide demand across ancient civilizations. They were traded extensively in Indian, Roman, Greek, Arab, Mediterranean, and East Asian markets. These pearls were valued as symbols of wealth and royal prestige.
The ancient port city of Korkai, located near present-day Thoothukudi, emerged as an early hub of pearl trade. Korkai’s strategic coastal position enabled large-scale export of pearls across maritime routes.
Static GK fact: Korkai was one of the earliest known ports of South India and served as the capital of the early Pandya dynasty.
Literary and cultural significance
Korkai and pearl fishing find prominent mention in Sangam literature. Classical Tamil works such as Pattinappaalai and Madurai Kanchi describe pearl trade, coastal life, and maritime prosperity. These texts confirm the antiquity of pearl harvesting in the region.
The Parava community played a central role in traditional pearl diving. Skilled divers descended into deep waters without modern equipment, making pearl fishing both dangerous and revered.
Static GK Tip: The Paravas were among the earliest organised maritime communities of Tamil Nadu.
Colonial control and economic impact
During the colonial period, pearl fisheries came under the control of the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. Colonial authorities imposed taxes and regulated pearl fishing operations. Large-scale pearl auctions were conducted in Thoothukudi, attracting international traders.
Pearl trade significantly contributed to the wealth of South Indian kingdoms such as the Pandya and Chola dynasties. Revenue from pearls strengthened maritime power and overseas trade connections.
Contemporary relevance
The GI tag application highlights the need to conserve traditional pearl fishing knowledge. It also underlines Tamil Nadu’s role in India’s maritime heritage. Protecting Thoothukudi pearls ensures recognition of both cultural legacy and ecological sustainability.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Thoothukudi Pearls:
| Topic | Detail |
| Region | Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu |
| Water body | Gulf of Mannar |
| Product | Natural pearls |
| Special feature | Milky nacreous lustre |
| Shapes | Round, semi-round, button-shaped |
| Colours | White, cream, pink, silvery white |
| Ancient port | Korkai |
| Community | Parava community |
| Literature reference | Sangam texts |
| Current issue | GI tag application |
