Diamonds

© Carl Pendle

Diamond is the hardest substance on earth and can be cut only by another diamond.The Antwerp Cut, which is multifaceted and pointed underneath, is designed to maximize the brilliancy of the stone.

Antwerp is one of the biggest and most important diamond centers of the world, and has played an important role in the diamond trade industry since the 15th century.More than 85% of the world's rough diamonds, 50% of cut diamonds and 40% of industrial diamonds are traded here. In addition to the flourishing trade in uncut and unpolished diamonds, countless diamond jewelers are established in the Antwerp diamond district located in the heart of the city.

Shopping for diamonds in Antwerp can be a real joy especially when several diamond sellers have teamed up with the city’s top hotels to offer romantic couples a free night’s stay when they come to purchase their diamond ring.When shopping it is best to look out for stores recommended by the ADJA which guarantees that the diamonds on sale are genuine. It should be noted that Antwerp’s famous diamond district is not open on weekends.

The Antwerp Diamond Jeweler Association

ADJA is a group of well known Antwerp jewelers with an outstanding reputation. They work under the patronage of the Antwerp Diamond High Council and the City of Antwerp. The Antwerp Diamond Jewelers Association invites you for an instructive walk through the Diamond City of Antwerp.

www.adja.be

Diamantmuseum

The largest diamond museum in the world is located in Antwerp across from the Central Station. It contains an extensive collection of jewelry including replicas of the British crown jewels

http://www.trabel.com/antwerp-diamant.htm

History of diamond museum Bruges

The permanent exhibition of the museum divulges: the history of diamonds over the centuries, with particular attention to the role played in Brugge by the Burgundian court (14th and 15th centuries). The museum shows a collection of interesting diamonds and historical diamond jewellery.

www.diamondhouse.net