Which industry directly contributed to the decline of the natural pearl industry?

The decline of the natural pearl industry can be directly attributed to the oil industry due to the advent of cultured pearls. The discovery of pearl formation processes that could be replicated artificially allowed for the mass production of pearls, which reduced the demand for naturally formed pearls found in the ocean. The oil industry's impact is tied to the commercial aspects of cultured pearl production, as advancements in technology and industrial processes created a more efficient means of producing pearls and ultimately altered consumer preferences.

While other industries may influence markets or consumer tastes, the oil industry specifically facilitated the industrialization and scalability of cultured pearl farming, leading to a significant decline in the natural pearl market. This shift highlights how advancements in one industry can have ripple effects that influence associated markets, such as the jewelry sector.