There are many ancient myths about the precious pearl, but
two local legends say she has two mothers. One says she is Bint Al Matar
daughter of the Rain, the other claims she is Bint Al Qamar, daughter of the
moon. Everything from the legends surrounding the pearl, its history as a
treasure sought by merchants and monarchs across the world, its impact on the
local culture and economy can be found in RAK’s new pearl museum. RAK historically
known before as Julfar, was the capital of pearl trading. There is a replica of
a document dated 1654, from the governor general in Batavia (Jakarta, Indonesia)
to directors of the Dutch East India Company in the Netherlands
Despite precautions, many divers suffered from great illness
later on in their life. They wore no protection for their eyes and ears, and
suffered later on from blindness and deafness. It was really hard work and many
suffered and even died on the job.
The 40-metre-boat, called a jalbout, includes everything a
pearl divers needed, from an oven to a cannon that would be fired to signal the
return of divers from a four-month and 10-day diving season in the summer, and
took with them drums, to keep themselves entertained.
On the first floor is a historical journey, including a detailed
showcase of tools and gear worn by pearl divers.
The museum's second floor is lined with displays
of the world's famous pearls, and instruction on how to distinguish natural and
cultured pearls.
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