The true diamond lover already knows: Antwerp and diamonds are a perfect combination. Antwerp has been the undisputed diamond capital of the world for over 500 years, where renowned companies such as Diamantwerp are a permanent fixture.
Here you can buy loose diamonds, invest in valuable stones or purchase beautiful jewellery. But what makes the diamond district or diamond quarter in Antwerp so special?
What is the Antwerp diamond district?
The Antwerp diamond district, with an area of approximately 1 km², is small but mighty. It is the place to buy diamonds, not only in Antwerp, but worldwide. In this compact community, traders conclude contracts, diamonds are bought and sold, sorted and redistributed. Rough diamonds are sold in Antwerp to diamond dealers, who later have them cut in cutting factories. Locally but also often in countries such as India. Antwerp is also the global centre where cut diamonds are reintroduced into international trade.
Did you know that 80% of all cut diamonds in the world have at some point been traded through Antwerp?
Where is the Antwerp diamond quarter located?
The Antwerp diamond district is located near the Central Station and covers five streets.
The Rijfstraat, Hoveniersstraat and Schupstraat, which are pedestrianised, form the heart of this district. In the Vestingstraat and the Lange Herentalsestraat you will find numerous shops with diamond jewellery and people who work in the diamond industry. However, these streets are more aimed at tourists. The Pelikaanstraat and the Appelmansstraat are also worth exploring. Here you will also find the important Beurs voor Diamanthandel, where diamonds are traded.
View the location of the diamond district on Google Maps.
How did the diamond district come into being?
The diamond district has a rich history. Diamonds were once traded on the streets, later on public markets. Towards the end of the 1970s, the diamond trade became increasingly important to Antwerp. Millions of dollars worth of diamonds were traded daily, which made a more regulated and formal way of trading necessary. This led to the establishment of specialized trading places such as auction houses, diamond exchanges and certification agencies. The three largest agencies (GIA, IGI and HRD) each have an office in Antwerp.
Over the years, the location of the diamond district has changed several times. Originally, the district was located near the Groenplaats, then it moved to the Paardenmarkt and then to the Meir. Since the end of the 19th century, the diamond district has been located near the Central Station. This location was not chosen by chance; the train was a crucial means of transport for the import and export of diamonds. The connection with the Kempen was important because many diamonds were processed there.
Why should you visit the diamond district?
A visit to the diamond district is an absolute must during a trip to Antwerp. There are numerous interesting sights. You can dream away at the beautiful showcases of the many diamond dealers, but the area itself also breathes a rich history.
Take a guided tour or explore the area independently. More information can be found on the website of the City of Antwerp
Tip! Also be sure to visit DIVA (Museum for diamonds, jewellery and silver)