The Gemmological Association of Great Britain is collaborating with the Dubai Pearl Exchange to develop a comprehensive education program for natural pearls. The course is being offered as part of Gem-A’s centennial celebration.

The comprehensive curriculum on natural pearls—with 15 subject areas—will be conducted in Dubai by the Dubai Pearl Exchange, a subsidiary of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, and will lead to a Completion Certificate presented by DPE and Gem-A. Jewelry lovers, aspiring designers, gem traders, cultural tourists, and Gulf nationals are among the groups being targeted to learn about the beauty and history of natural pearls and their fundamental place in the region’s heritage, the exchange said in a statement.

“This presents an unmatched opportunity to enable the residents of the GCC countries to be better aware of their illustrious heritage, and to help reinstate Dubai’s position as a leading pearl hub,” said Ahmed Bin Sulayem, executive chairman, DMCC.

The five-day course will take inspiration from the rich Arabian pearling heritage, and give those interested in the world of jewelry and pearls an insight into the natural pearl that has traditionally grown and been nurtured within the sparkling waters off the Gulf coast. Focusing on the beauty of the pearl and its formation, the program will cover the celebrated position of pearls in the great design houses such as Cartier and Tiffany and their representation in contemporary fashion, poetry, romance, and folklore.

“Gem-A recognises that Dubai has a very important place in the history of pearling as a center for trade and pearl fishing, and we were delighted to be given the opportunity to collaborate with the Dubai Pearl Exchange on their new course,” said Jack Ogden, Gem-A chief executive officer.

To enrol on the new DPE Natural Pearl Course or to find out more about DPE’s latest initiatives in the region visit www.dpe.ae.

JCK