The finest South Sea Pearls for necklaces and jewellery are produced in the pristine waters of the Northern Territory. Jewellery made from these rare gems are the third major jewellery category after diamonds and gold. Pearling is Australia's second largest aquacultural activity by gross value of production, with a history dating back to the early luggers and divers of the 1880's. It has been an industry of booms and busts, finally stabalising as the expertise to farm the Pinctada maxima oyster developed. Unlike majorica-pearls, Darwin's industry is able to produce these gems of the sea on a large scale using advanced farming methods and natural oysters.

Located at the entrance to Stokes Hill Wharf, the Australian Pearling Exhibition features interactive displays relating to Australia's pearling industry. The Exhibition will take you through years of pearling history, from the days of the lugger and hard hat diving, to modern farming and pearl culturing techniques. Pearling is Australia's second largest aquacultural activity by gross value of production, with a history dating back to the early luggers and divers of the 1880's. This exhibition containing static, audiovisual and live displays relating to the story of Australia's pearling industry, past, present and future, in which Darwin plays a major role. Free admission.