The city of Hyderabad has become almost inseparable with the mention of pearls.

Hyderabad was a rich princely state. The imperial patronage ensured affluence of arts, crafts and cuisine. This prosperous lifestyle demanded and attracted many craftsmen from distant parts of the world, especially the Arabian Gulf where the rare original pearls are found in profusion. The royal families demanded that these pearls be brought to India in abundance. Hence, Hyderabad became the one-stop-destination for pearls. There is an entire street consisting of pearl shops named – Patther Gatti. Jewelers in the pearl markets of Hyderabad have combined pearls with the shimmer of gold, the rich rubies and the exquisite emeralds for centuries. It is indeed amazing to see traditional designs still going strong and surviving the tempests of time in the narrow alleys of the Old City today.

Several styles of pearl jewelry have progressed along with the pearl trade. The 'Satlada' and 'Panchlada Haar' are respectively seven and five stringed necklaces and are very popular. They are often intermingled with emeralds, rubies and onyx beads set in nine-carat gold. Earrings set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer infinite varieties of beautiful chokers, pendants and lockets