| Harvesting of pearls from Broome has less of a history than most people think. Pearls were not cultured in this part of Western Australia until the late 20th century.
The small town of Broome grew and became famous as the pearling industry grew in the 1860's. While pearls were not the prize harvesters seeked, the famous Pinctada Maxima mother of pearl (M.O.P) was reaching its height of popularity. This shell was used for buttons, art, cutlery, combs, jewelry, and a myriad of other products.
In 1956, Pearls Pty. Ltd, set up a joint pearling venture in Broome. This was beginning of pearl farming in the region. |