Multi-Strand Pearl Necklace
Artifact ID1983.00684.01
Object Type
Necklace
Date
20th Century
Medium
Pearl, Metal (gold), Stone (diamond)
Dimensions18 in. (45.7 cm)
Physical DescriptionThis is a double-strand pearl necklace with a white gold clasp set with nine diamonds. The pearls are graduated in size, getting smaller the closer they are to the clasp.
Historical NoteIsa bin Salman Al-Khalifa, Emir of Bahrain (1961-1999), gave this necklace to Nancy Reagan while he was visiting Washington, DC on a state visit in July of 1983. It is made of natural pearls from Bahrain’s famous pearling grounds, and has a white gold clasp set with nine diamonds. Divers have been finding pearls off the coast of Bahrain since at least 2000 BC. The UNESCO World Heritage Committee calls the Bahrain pearling trail “the last remaining complete example of the cultural tradition of pearling and the wealth it generated at a time when the trade dominated the Gulf economy (2nd century to the 1930s when Japan developed cultured pearls).” The pearls in this necklace represent the finest quality pearls found in the country.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from a foreign official to First Lady Nancy Reagan during the Reagan administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President Office of Correspondence and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January, 1989 for deposit with the Reagan Presidential Library.
National Archives Catalog CollectionRecords of the White House Gift Unit (Reagan Administration) (National Archives Identifier 6816362) and
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Foreign Officials (National Archives Identifier 6816364)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
Country/CultureBahrainIn Collection(s)
Related LinksMonday Minute: Bahrain Necklace