Tamil Nadu News

Thoothukudi Pearls

December 18 , 2025 15 hrs 0 min 65 0

The Thoothukudi Muthu Urpathiyalargal Sangam has applied for GI tag.
Thoothukudi pearls are natural pearls from the Gulf of Mannar with a recorded history of over 2,000 years.
Thoothukudi is known as the “Pearl City” because of its long tradition of pearl fishing.
These pearls are naturally formed and occur in round, semi-round and button-shaped forms.
The pearls have smooth surfaces, fine texture and colours such as white, cream, pale yellow, pink and silvery white.
Thoothukudi pearls are known for a brilliant nacreous lustre, often described as a “milky shine”.
Thoothukudi pearls were traded in Indian, Roman, Greek, Arab, Mediterranean and East Asian markets.
The ancient port of Korkai near present-day Thoothukudi was an early centre of pearl trade.
Korkai is mentioned in Sangam literature such as Pattinappaalai and Madurai Kanchi.
During the colonial period, the Portuguese, Dutch, French and British controlled and taxed pearl fishing.
Colonial authorities conducted pearl auctions in Thoothukudi that attracted international merchants.
The Parava community was traditionally involved in pearl diving activities.
Pearl trade contributed to the wealth of the Pandya and Chola kingdoms.