Antwerp's Most Brilliant Brochure English 2019 by Orogem Jewelers

ANTWERP’S MOST BRILLIANT Your guide to the best jewellers in Antwerp

TUR

NHO

UTS

EBA

SC HE LD E

ST R A A T

S TA D H U I S

’T STEEN

SUI

O E P O OR LANGE K

16�

5 5

A quality A quality label label for for jewellers jewellers

DE KO

News News

6 6

AR KT

Antwerp, Antwerp, a creative a creative citycity

K AT H E D R AA L

EIE GROEN PL A ATS

TipsTips for for buying buying a diamond a diamond Certified Certified jewellers jewellers

815 1 500500 years years of craftsmanship of craftsmanship ST

OUWE

RSVE

9 9

12 12 17 17 ME IR

32 32

KO RT E

36 36

GA STH UIS

39 39

STR

24 DIVA. DIVA. Antwerp Antwerp Home Home of Diamonds of Diamonds 14‘cut‘cut 57 wondrous 57 wondrous facets facets in Antwerp’ in Antwerp’

HUIDEV ETTERS TRA AT

ANTWERP ANTWERP BRILLIANT BRILLIANT ’S MOST ’S MOST

A AT

M O D E N AT I E

SCHUTTER SH OFST RAAT

40 40 13

Overview Overview map map of jewellers of jewellers

42 42

N AT

IO N

ALE

STR

A AT

KLO

OST

ERS

TRA

Antwerp Antwerp loves loves diamonds diamonds

S IN

T-JO

R IS P

OOR

RA ST LK VO

AT GRAAF VAN EGMON TSTRA

ITS

KONINKLIJK MUSEUM VOOR SCHONE KUNSTEN

ant we r p ’s m os t b r i l l iant A

R ME

IKA

c o n tceonnttse n t s3

LA N

A QUALITY LABEL

FOR JEWELLERS

If you are looking for something different, unique or extraordinary jewellery, we are certain that you will find it in Antwerp. Antwerp’s Most Brilliant, the quality label of the City of Antwerp and Antwerp World Diamond Centre, will point you in the right direction. This label is awarded to jewellers who meet the rigorous quality requirements in terms of sustainability, ethics, safety, transparency and service for two years. An independent control body checks whether the jeweller complies with the standards of the quality label. Thanks to this label you can buy jewellery with confidence. The jewellers are easy to recognise thanks to the Antwerp’s Most Brilliant sticker in their windows and guarantee that the jewellery you buy here is of high quality. 4

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

q uA lIt y lA b e l

SHINE: A ‘DNA COLLECTION BY I.MA.GI.N. JEWELS’ FOR GEN Y

a diamond, which is inscribed with the quote ‘Shine like a diamond’. You can have a personal message engraved on the back of the pendant. “Ravissant”, the previous DnA collection, is also still available. Nico Taeymans designed this unique collection of jewellery, combining kimberlite with rough and polished diamonds.

On 13 September 2019, the DIVA diamond museum will inaugurate a second exhibition in the Wunderkammer series. The Antwerp designers Wouters & Hendrix will follow in the footsteps of Axel Vervoordt as guest curators. Starting from their 35-year career as jewellery designers and storytellers, Katrin Wouters and Karen Hendrix will examine what inspires and amazes them. Their fascination for remarkable stories, silver and gold are the main theme of this exhibition concept. Precious objects and everyday finds take on new meaning in personal compositions. Room of Wonder II: Wouters & Hendrix” will run until 16 February 2020. → Wouters & Hendrix see page 28

→ I.Ma.Gi.N. Jewels see page 20 → Nico Taeymans see page 24

JEWELRY AWARD: COMPETITION FOR SCHOOLS AND EXHIBITION Every beautiful item of jewellery is created using a combination of knowledge and craftsmanship, which has been handed down from generation to generation of silversmiths. Anyone who is passionate about this trade or craft will gladly teach it to others. After all, this is the only way to ensure the survival of a craft or trade and schools, pupils and teachers play a crucial role in this. The Jewelry Award encourages students to test their boundaries, both on the technical and creative level. Every year, a professional jury evaluates their submissions. The two criteria are craftsmanship and design. This year’s theme is “The world of…”. All the participants’ creations will be exhibited at Tour&Taxis (Brussels) and in the DIVA diamond museum (Antwerp). → lydia.segers@so.antwerpen.be

This year I.Ma.Gi.n. Jewels, the jeweller that was most recently admitted to the group of Antwerp’s Most Brilliant Label jewellers, will design the Antwerp World Diamond Centre’s ‘Diamonds & Antwerp Collection’. Margaux Spruyt and Gilles Van Gestel of I.Ma.Gi.n. Jewels are both passionate about jewellery and diamonds. Margaux has been designing jewellery since the age of 16 and was exposed to the diamond sector from an early age, given that both her father and grandfather work in Antwerp’s diamond industry. Gilles is an accredited gemmologist and the 7th generation of a family of diamond and jewellery workers. Antwerp’s diamond industry and I.Ma.Gi.n. Jewels hope to rekindle the younger generation’s interest in diamonds with the DnA collection. The centrepiece in the ‘sHIne’ collection is a bracelet and round pendant set with

WOUTERS & HENDRIX TO CURATE ROOM OF WONDER II AT DIVA

NEWS

DISCOVER THE WONDROUS WORLD OF ‘STARFLOWER’ The designer and artist Rembrandt Jordan has incorporated a precious stone with a unique cut in an unusual collection of exceptional jewellery. Cosmic imagery of blooming flowers and bright, sparkling stars emerge from the depths of this gemstone, which the designer has called ‘Starflower’. The flower-like cut brings out the intrinsic characteristics of each stone. Whether you are looking at a golden citrine or a deep purple amethyst, you will find it difficult to resist the spell of the resplendent Starflower. Each of Rembrandt Jordan’s sculptural jewels is like a miniature work of art that tells its own story. → Rembrandt Jordan see page 27

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

n e ws

ANTWERP

A CREATIVE CITY

One in six creative entrepreneurs is established in Antwerp. The city is a breeding ground where talent lives, works and thrives. Antwerp’s fashion designers, for example, are world-famous. The fact that the city has one of the oldest art academies in Europe as well as several other creative training programmes has also led to partnerships between designers from various backgrounds.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

Moreover, Antwerp is the diamond world centre so it will come as no surprise that talented designers are quite skilled when it comes to turning precious stones and metals into unique items of jewellery. Antwerp has been a diamond and jewellery capital for over 500 years. → More information on page 32

c re At IV e cIt y

RUBENS — DIAMONDS AS A DEPOSIT

ADAMAS = DIAMANT

ZAHA HADID — THE WORLD’S LARGEST DIAMOND

The word ‘diamond’ comes from the Greek word ‘Adamas’, which means invincible. For many centuries, diamonds were only worn by kings and emperors.

The leading architect Zaha Hadid designed Antwerp’s Port House. The building’s façade panels are made of glass triangles, which are arranged in a slightly rotated manner, to resemble facets. The light is always reflected in a different way, in a reference to the sparkle of Antwerp’s diamonds.

A.F. VANDEVORST — THESE BOOTS ARE NOT MADE FOR WALKING

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

DIAMONDS ARE OLDER THAN DINOSAURS

Natural diamonds are very, very old. They are older than dinosaurs, in fact they are even older than our continents. Diamonds are estimated to be 1 to 3.5 billion years old, while our planet is 4.5 billion years old.

Peter Paul Rubens was a famous painter but he was also a senior diplomat who maintained relations with several European courts. Rubens accepted diamonds and precious stones in lieu of payment or as a deposit. When Maria de Medici was forced to flee France and visited Rubens in Antwerp, he lent her a large sum of money. She gave him her jewellery as a pledge.

In 2013, the designers A.F. Vandevorst designed the most expensive boots in the world, together with the Diarough diamond company, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre and the Flanders Fashion Institute. The boots are encrusted with 39,083 brightly-coloured diamonds and 4,383 grams of gold. It took 30,000 hours to produce the boots, which are estimated to be worth 3.2 million usD. You can now admire them at the DIVA diamond museum.

DIAMONDS ARE EXTREME

Diamonds are formed in the earth’s core under extremely high pressure (4.5 to 6 gigapascal = 50 elephants on a fingertip) and temperatures (900 to 1,300 °C ). They are then carried to the surface during volcano eruptions.

c re At IV e cIt y

TIPS FOR

DIAMONDS AND THE 4 C S

BUYING A DIAMOND

The quality and value of a cut diamond are determined by the 4 C s.

1. Carat refers to the weight: 1 carat = 0.2 grams or 100 points. 2. Colour refers to the stone’s colour grade. Most diamonds range in colour from colourless to slightly yellow. A perfect diamond has no colour at all. This is called D colour or Exceptional White+. Only natural, brightly-coloured diamonds are even more valuable.

Antwerp is the best place to purchase diamonds. Did you know that 86% of all rough diamonds and 50% of all polished diamonds are traded in Antwerp?

3. Clarity describes the diamond’s purity. The clarity scale reflects the size, number and location of the inclusions or internal impurities and external characteristics, such as scratches. A “loupe clean” diamond is a stone in which no inclusions were found when examined with a loupe that magnifies 10 times.

CERTIFICATE / DIAMOND GRADING REPORT (DGR) A DGR describes the 4 C s for a given diamond. Always request a DGR when purchasing a diamond. Jewellers with an Antwerp’s Most Brilliant label will automatically supply you with a DGr from the HrD Antwerp, the GIA or the IGI for any diamond over 1 carat. If you choose to purchase elsewhere, always remember to ask for one of these three DGrs. Besides a description of the 4 Cs, the DGr also lists whether this is a natural, laboratory made or treated diamond.

NATURAL DIAMOND If your DGr states that you bought a natural diamond, then you know that you are purchasing a diamond that is millions of years old.

4. Cut describes how the stone was cut. The ideal proportions, finish and symmetry are vital for the diamond’s cut. Each grade is evaluated according to four parameters: Excellent | Very Good | Good | Fair. A perfect cut reveals a diamond’s fire and brilliance.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

t Ip s fo r b uyI n G A D IAM o n D

Laboratory grown diamonds are manmade in labs. These diamonds have the same composition as natural diamonds and may even display inclusions, but they were not extracted from the ground. Laboratory grown diamonds are cheaper than natural stones. Some treated diamonds are called HpHt processed (pay attention to the difference between natural or laboratory grown, because both DGrs may feature the term HpHt). The diamond’s natural characteristics have changed after treatment. Often this is done to improve the stone’s colour grade. These diamonds are cheaper than natural, untreated stones. If you do not want a treated diamond, then choose natural, untreated diamonds instead. Enquire with an Antwerp’s Most Brilliant jeweller. If you are made an offer that seems too good to be true, it probably is just that. If you are given a different price for a diamond with the same characteristics (4 C s) in various places, then something is wrong. Request the stone’s DGr and check it carefully. They may be offering you laboratory grown or treated diamonds. You can count on Antwerp’s Most Brilliant jewellers for accurate information.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

LABORATORY GROWN AND TREATED DIAMONDS

ATTENTION From 1 January 2018, every jeweller must issue a descriptive certificate for any jewel or timepiece sold, made of precious metals, gemstones or diamonds, which provides detailed and complete information about: — the type of precious metal used and the number of karats — the type of gemstone: natural, treated, laboratory grown, untreated and the type of treatment — the diamond: the 4 C s and the type of treatment to enhance clarity — the timepiece: make, model and unique serial number — the details of the company: name, natural person/legal entity, business address and company registration number. This descriptive certificate unambiguously states whether natural, laboratory grown or treated diamonds were used.

REPORT A COMPLAINT Customers who are the victim of misleading practices, fraud or swindle can report this to Antwerp’s local police at goudi@politie.antwerpen.be. In addition, the Federal Public Service Economy also analyses complaints, which you can report in four languages (Dutch, French, German and English) online at meldpunt.belgie.be.

t Ip s fo r b uyI n G A D IAM o n D

ANTWERP ’ S MOST BRILLIANT

CERTIFIED JEWELLERS

16 17

1 ADELIN Salomon Wijnberg, the owner of Adelin, applies two criteria for jewellery: every piece must be unique and special. He buys and sells antique and old jewellery as well as vintage watches. Here you can still find authentic diamond jewellery with old cuts.

3 COLMAN JEWELRY & WATCHES Colman is known for its own jewellery brand, called “jbs”. You can have customised jewellery made in the workshop to reflect your taste. Besides this Colman also distributes the leading watch and jewellery brands as well as having its own repair service.

Steenhouwersvest 43, 2000 Antwerp

Eiermarkt 7, 2000 Antwerp

t +32 (0) 3 234 95 52

t + 32 (0) 3 231 11 11

info@adelin.be

antwerpen@colman.be

www.adelin.be

www.colman.be

2 ADIN

4 DIAMANI JEWELS

Adin is an internationally renowned source for the valuation and sale of antique jewellery. Their items of antique and vintage jewellery each come with their own story, punctuating special moments in your life.

Diamani Jewels is located in the centre of the international diamond trade, in the Antwerp Diamond Club, which is the oldest diamond exchange worldwide. In his “Joaillerie du Club” Patrick de Landtsheer sells diamonds and exclusive jewellery, made in Diamani’s own workshop.

Vestingstraat 16, 2018 Antwerp t +32 (0) 3 213 65 00 www.antiquejewel.com

Pelikaanstraat 66, 2018 Antwerp

info@antiquejewel.com

t + 32 (0) 3 234 34 78 info@diamani.com www.diamani.com

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

7 GERHILD KIRCHNER

Diamond Blue is a family company with more than 30 years of experience. It specialises in the sale of fine 18 carat gold jewellery, set with diamonds and other gemstones. The team also has a certified diamond expert, discussing your wishes while taking into account your budget.

Gerhild’s creativity is primarily driven by emotions. She seeks to give form to moods and feelings. Music, books and daily life encounters — along with the emotions that these provoke — inspire her. Her unique designs are hand-made.

5 DIAMOND BLUE

Oude Koornmarkt 51, 2000 Antwerp Vestingstraat 77, 2018 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 3 225 22 90

t + 32 (0) 3 213 15 22

info@gerhildkirchner.be

info@tomjewelry.be

www.gerhildkirchner.be

www.tomjewelry.be

6 DIAMONDLAND

8 new I.MA.GI.N. JEWELS

DiamondLand has been a fixture in Antwerp’s diamond district for over 30 years. Enjoy a tour of their exclusive collection of diamond jewellery or create the jewel of your dreams together with their workshop.

I.Ma.Gi.n. Jewels was founded in the heart of the diamond capital and is inspired by the timeless elegance of refined, traditional jewellery and the desire to combine proven craftsmanship with innovative designs. Every jewel in the I.Ma.Gi.n. Jewels collection strives to please and surprise the buyer or the wearer.

Appelmansstraat 33a, 2018 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 369 07 80 info@diamondland.be www.diamondland.be

Steenhouwersvest 11, 2000 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 297 03 83 (shop) t + 32 (0) 3 288 18 96 (office) info@imaginjewels.com www.imaginjewels.com

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

9 JOAILLERIE DU CENTRE

11 JUWELEN OROGEM

Joaillerie du Centre, in the heart of the diamond district designs, manufactures and supplies jewellery, precious stones, diamonds and pearls of high quality. Their workshop will gladly execute your ideas but also takes care of simple repairs.

Orogem is founded on three generations of diamond dealers. The grandfather managed a diamond polishing workshop for many years. The son meanwhile focused on naturally coloured diamonds. Since 2007 the grandson has joined the team, contributing his passion for jewellery to the service they offer to customers.

Vestingstraat 14, 2018 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 233 30 10 info@jewelsdc.be

Vestingstraat 38, 2018 Antwerp

www.jewelsdc.be

t + 32 (0) 3 232 30 77 yannick@juwelenorogem.be www.juwelenorogem.be

10 JUWELEN HENRI DOM

12 JUWELENHUIS RUYS

If you are looking for jewellery with diamonds and pearls then Juwelen Henri Dom is the place to go. Here they sell pearls for every budget. What’s more, they knot the pearl necklaces themselves in their own workshop. At Juwelen Henri Dom the emphasis is on service and expertise.

Juwelenhuis Ruys is celebrating its 160th anniversary. This family-owned jeweller’s sells a wide range of diamonds and precious stones, silver and gold jewellery, silverware and timepieces. The premises are in a magnificent building with an authentic interior that dates from 1902, which is worth a visit in itself.

Vestingstraat 53, 2018 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 233 94 88

Sint-Jorispoort 26, 2000 Antwerp

info@parelsdom.be

t + 32 (0) 3 232 49 65

www.parelsdom.be

info@ruys.be www.ruys.be

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

15 NICO TAEYMANS

Slaets is a prominent Belgian jeweller that celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2014. The Slaets family prides itself on its expertise, running their own watch workshop since 1904. They sell over 40 leading watch and jewellery brands.

The designer Nico Taeymans creates original, hand-made, contemporary jewellery, including rings, necklaces and bracelets. The precious stones he uses, such as diamonds, opals and other ( sometimes rough ) semi-precious stones, are carefully selected and set.

13 JUWELIER SLAETS

De Keyserlei 46 – 48, 2018 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 213 50 80

Steenhouwersvest 17, 2000 Antwerp

Schuttershofstraat 30b, 2000 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 3 337 74 27

t + 32 (0) 3 226 41 44

t + 32 (0) 477 96 13 00

slaets@slaets.eu

winkel@nicotaeymans.be

www.slaets.eu

www.nicotaeymans.be

14 NADINE WIJNANTS

16 ORIANE DIAMONDS

For over 35 years, she has worked on developing her own language and creating beauty and quality. Her unique, bespoke designs are the organic outcome of her intense contact with her customers. Nadine Wijnants, combining fine craftsmanship with reliable, trusted service since 1990.Her inspiration: the Wiener Werkstätte.

Oriane Diamonds, which is located in the city’s historic centre, is a new branch of the Diamond Blue family company, which has over 30 years of experience selling diamonds. Oriane Diamonds guarantees that you will find the jewel of your dreams for your budget. Suikerrui 13 –15, 2000 Antwerp

Kloosterstraat 26, 2000 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 3 434 37 30

t + 32 (0) 484 64 33 03

t + 32 (0) 498 71 71 87

info@nadinewijnants.be

info@tomjewelry.be

www.nadinewijnants.be

www.tomjewelry.be

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

17 ORSINI DIAMONDS

19 REMBRANDT JORDAN

Orsini Diamonds has been synonymous for high-quality jewellery at fair prices for over 35 years. Here every customer receives expert advice and assistance because at Orsini Diamonds they believe every customer is unique. They specialise in original, exclusive and refined jewellery. Quality and reliability are handed down from father to son at this established jeweller.

Rembrandt Jordan’s sophisticated minimalist designs reduce jewellery to its essence, bringing out the qualities of the diamonds and precious metals he uses. His timeless designs are comfortable to wear. His unique wedding jewellery consists of powerful pairs that enhance and strengthen each other. Wijngaardstraat 18, 2000 Antwerp t + 32 (0) 3 289 42 62

De Keyserlei 32, 2018 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 474 66 35 74

t + 32 (0) 3 266 48 41

info@rembrandtjordan.com

info@orsinidiamonds.com

www.rembrandtjordan.com

www.orsinidiamonds.com

18 RAYJO

20 RÖELL JEWELLERY

Rayjo, a leading jewellery manufacturer, has had a presence in Antwerp’s diamond centre for over 50 years. This family company prides itself on its many years of experience, while also striving for the best quality and service. Your guarantee for high-quality jewellery.

The röell jewellery is created exclusively by the store’s own designers and produced in-house by the best craftsmen. They only work with rigorously selected diamonds and gems of the highest quality. Empire Shopping Center Boutique 8 + 9 Appelmansstraat 25, 2018 Antwerp

Rijfstraat 6, 2018 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 3 225 15 05

t + 32 (0) 3 232 31 95

info@roell.be

info@rayjo.be

www.roell.be

www.rayjo.be

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

Rudiam specialises in the design and manufacture of exclusive, hand-made jewellery. All the jewels are made in-house, based on the design of and in consultation with the customer, using only the best materials. Appelmansstraat 8, 2018 Antwerp

21 RUDIAM

23 WIM MEEUSSEN GOUDSMEDERIJ Wim Meeussen is known for his original jewellery in his typically organic style. Every item is made by hand in his own workshop. Wim loves the contrast between a matt and shiny finish, combining the two, or rough structures and fine diamonds.

t + 32 (0) 3 226 55 75 rudiam@skynet.be

Wijngaardstraat 11, 2000 Antwerp

www.rudiam.be

t + 32 (0) 3 232 19 13 info@wimmeeussen.be www.wimmeeussen.be

22 VAN DER VEKEN JUWELIERS

24 WOUTERS & HENDRIX

J.M.C. Van der Veken is a Belgian “haute joaillerie” workshop. All their jewels are fully hand-crafted, according to the highest standard, with an eye for detail and without ever compromising on quality. Even the details that are not immediately visible receive the necessary attention.

Since 2007, Wouters & Hendrix have been bringing their imaginative designs to life in pure gold. Thanks to this material, their work has evolved to more personal, calmer forms, which are a perfect example of timeless beauty. Their elegant and refined collections bear testimony to their consummate craftsmanship.

Vestingstraat 42, 2018 Antwerp

Steenhouwersvest 52, 2000 Antwerp

t + 32 (0) 3 232 24 09

t + 32 (0) 3 231 62 42

info@vandervekenjuweliers.be

antwerp@wouters-hendrix.com

www.vandervekenjuweliers.be

www.wouters-hendrix.com

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

c e rt I f IeD je we lle rs

30 31

DIVA

500 YEARS OF CRAFTSMANSHIP DIVA and its collection are situated in a historically significant location. From the sixteenth century onwards, Grote Markt and the surrounding streets were the place to buy silver, gold and precious stones. Anyone with a predilection for brilliant luxury was inevitably drawn to the window displays of the jewellers and silver and goldsmiths in this neighbourhood.

Necklace with rose-cut diamonds, Emile Anthony & Wolfers frères, 1880–1890, Collection diva, b517/1. photo: Dominique Provost.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

Specialised nations controlled the quality of craftsmanship and the output of craftsmen. The Nation of Gold and Silversmiths was established in 1456. In 1582, the National of Diamond and Ruby Cutters was founded. The training, working conditions and admission of new members were subject to strict conditions. Despite all kinds of protective measures, the nations were however unable to prevent the departure of skilled craftsmen in the 17th century due to the political and economic tribulations in the city and region. Antwerp’s silver and goldsmiths fanned out across Europe, making the Antwerp style famous as a result. After the second half of the 19th century, Antwerp reclaimed its leading role as the diamond capital of the world. The discovery of the diamond mines in South Africa in 1867 heralded a period of prosperity for the diamond industry. The number of highly-qualified brilliant cutters in Antwerp increased swiftly, and the beautifully-cut diamonds they produced were world-famous. Paris dictated jewellery fashions and Antwerp jewellers and goldsmiths adopted the French style. In Antwerp fashionable women shopped at Anthony or Ruys-Ramboux for their jewellery. World War II marked the end of the heyday of Antwerp’s diamond cutting industry. From the Seventies onwards, employment fell sharply in Antwerp’s diamond industry. While there are just a few diamond cutting and polishing factories in Antwerp, the city still has a reputation for providing superb quality.

Pendant design with a sea monster, ridden by mythological characters, Adriaen Collaert, after Hans Collaert I, 1582, Collection Museum PlantinMoretus, inv. pk.op.06793.

Golden ring with a pointed diamond and enamel ornamentation, 1401–1500, Collection diva, dmk01/14. photo: Dominique Provost.

D IVA. A n t we rp H o M e o f D IAM o n D s

Some of the high-tech diamond cutting companies in Antwerp’s diamond district primarily cut and polish large, very valuable diamonds.

Pendant/Brooch in rose gold with rose-cut diamonds, Albert RuysRamboux, Antwerp, 1895–1910, Collection diva, dmk09/2. photo: White Light

The cutters, casters, setters and jewellers are all still located within a stone’s throw of each other in Antwerp’s diamond district, near the city’s Central Station. Customers can purchase diamond jewellery from them, which attests to the many decades of craftsmanship, combined with new technologies, such as 3D printing or laser-cutting. The number of creative jewellers who graduated from the ‘Jewellery design and silversmithing’ programme at Antwerp’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Sint-Lucas Antwerp or pXlMAD School of Arts in Genk is growing steadily. They keep this centuries-old craftsmanship alive, giving it their own, unique, contemporary twist. Do you want to admire this jewellery and hear more “Brilliant Stories” ? Why not visit DIVA, Antwerp Home of Diamonds.

Art Nouveau comb with brilliant-cut diamonds, rubies and opals Joaillier Feys, Brussels, 1890–1910, Collection diva, dmk95/2. photo: Dominique Provost

Snake jewel with old brilliant-cut and rose-cut diamonds and with rubies France, c. 1860, Collection diva, dmk99/4. photo: Dominique Provost

Diamond ring, Georges Cuyvers, Antwerp, 1993, Collection diva, dmk94/1. photo: Dominique Provost

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

D IVA. A n t we rp H o M e o f D IAM o n D s

DIVA

HOME OF DIAMONDS

Diamonds have been inextricably linked with Antwerp for many centuries. DIVA tells this story, in its own, inimitable way. Don’t have much time? Request the free visitor guide when visiting. The map shows you where you can find 14 key pieces of the collection, such as the Owl Beaker, the Peacock Brooch and the Snake Jewel. Discover all there is to know about the past and present of diamonds, jewellery and silversmithing in Antwerp in just 45 to 60 minutes. DIVA’s collection comes to life in six galleries , that each tell a different story. DIVA’s Wunderkammer features luxury goods from all corners of the world. Learn more about the craftsmanship that was needed to create such superb objects in the Atelier, where diamonds and silversmithing become one. In the Trading Room, diamond traders tell you more about the history of their trade. Here you will also learn why Antwerp is so important as the diamond

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

capital of the world. The Dining Room illustrates how luxurious tables once looked. In the Vault you can find out more about authenticity and ethics in the diamond trade and silversmithing. And finally, expect to be dazzled by the magnificent jewellery in the Boudoir. Have a minute to spare? Watch the short film about the production of a ring in Antwerp’s diamond district or learn more about the Duarte family and the role they played in 17th century Antwerp. You can also take a seat at the large dining table, where you can make the acquaintance of five historic characters and learn more about dining habits during this period on one of the touchscreens. Every room is staged, and has interactive screens, soundscapes and multimedia. diva. Antwerp Home of Diamonds is open daily from 10 am till 6 pm, except on Wednesdays. Buy your tickets online at www.divaantwerp.be or at the ticket office in the museum, where you can pay with your bank card. Suikerrui 17 – 19, 2000 Antwerp www.divaantwerp.be

D IVA. A n t we rp H o M e o f D IAM o n D s

100 YEARS OF BRILLIANTS

57 WONDROUS FACETS ‘CUT IN ANTWERP’ A brilliant or a diamond? Do you find this confusing? All you need to remember is that diamonds are a precious stone. The most popular cut is the brilliant cut. This round shape is prized for its brilliance, sparkle and clarity. 75% of all colourless diamonds are brilliants. This cut, with 57 facets, was perfected in 1919 by an Antwerp diamond cutter called Marcel Tolkowsky. He used a mathematical calculation to determine the best way to arrange the facets, to add as much as life and brilliance as possible to the diamond. You can tell the difference in cuts before and after 1919 by the width of the table. The older the brilliant, the narrower the table. Nowadays brilliants are perfectly cut, using the so-called Hearts & Arrows pattern. This visual phenomenon can only seen if you view the diamond through a gem scope.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

‘Old European Cut’ or ‘Vintage Cut’

‘Modern Brilliant Cut’

1 0 0 ye Ars o f b rI llIAn t s

ANTWERP

LOVES DIAMONDS Do you want to learn more about the diamond and jewellery capital of Antwerp?

AN INSPIRING WALK THROUGH ANTWERP’S GOLDEN STREETS

ANTWERP LOVES DIAMONDS APP + PLAN

GUIDED WALKING TOUR – DIAMOND DISTRICT

Step into the world of contemporary jewellery designers and take a stroll through Antwerp’s Golden Streets, the home of 22 fashion-forward jewellers who are all superb craftsmen. Well-known names as well as emerging talent showcase their designs and craftsmanship here, selling costume jewellery as well as exclusive custom jewellery. The Golden Streets are the perfect place to shop for a unique piece of jewellery, in keeping with your style and budget. You’ll also find several of Antwerp’s Most Brilliant jewellers here.

The free “Antwerp loves diamonds” app will take you on a journey through five centuries of diamond history in Antwerp. You will also learn more about the diamond industry today and the app also provides a series of interesting facts and purchasing tips. You can download the app for free from the App store or Google Play. Available for smartphone and tablet.

From Central Station you walk to the ‘Diamond Square Mile’, Antwerp’s diamond district. A colourful mix of different nationalities makes its way though the district’s streets, from one transaction to another. A neighbourhood where diamond cutters, jewellers and diamond dealers have created a world of their own, with diamond factories, showrooms and exchanges.

The “Antwerp loves diamonds” map gives an overview of historic and contemporary locations with a diamond connection, as well as listing some interesting facts and tips for buying jewellery. You can collect the map from the tourist information desks at Grote Markt and in Central Station.

info@visitantwerpen.be

You can use the map or take a guided tour. Join to visit the shops, catch a glimpse of what is going on behind the scenes and get some background information about fashion, jewellery and diamonds.

www.visitantwerpen.be t +32 (0) 3 232 01 03

More info: www.antwerpdiamondcapital.eu

www.degoudenstraatjes.be You can find tips for purchasing a diamond in the front of this brochure.

a nt w e r p ’s m os t b r illiant

A n t we rp lo Ve s D IAM o n D s

LEI

STRA

NKR

9 TING 2 ST

APPE

LMAN

FRA

20 6

ANTWERPEN C E N T R AA L

11 22 18

S RIJF

TR.

10 5

4 PE LI K A A N

ST R A AT

IJ AT S N M SLE

S TA D S P A R K

ERLE

NTE

STRA

17 13

IJK

WAPPER

HUI DEV ETT ERS TRA AT

DE K EYS

QUI

* See detailed * See detailed map / map ** See / overview ** See overview map &map detailed & detailed map map

ENTE

MEIR

DIVA. ANTWERP ANTWERP HOME HOME OF DIAMONDS OF DIAMONDS � �DIVA. — — ADELIN 1 1ADELIN M E IR ADIN * * 2 2ADIN ME IR COLMAN JEWELRY JEWELRY & WATCHES & WATCHES 3 3COLMAN DIAMANI JEWELS JEWELS * * 4 4DIAMANI DIAMOND BLUE BLUE * * 5 5DIAMOND DIAMONDLAND * * 6 6DIAMONDLAND GERHILD KIRCHNER KIRCHNER R U B E N S H U I S 7 7GERHILD H O PL AN D I.MA.GI.N. I.MA.GI.N. JEWELS JEWELS 8 8 AAT R OFST SH TTER SCHU JOAILLERIE DU CENTRE DU CENTRE * * 9 9JOAILLERIE JUWELEN HENRI HENRI DOM DOM * * 10 10JUWELEN JUWELEN OROGEM OROGEM * * 11 11JUWELEN JUWELENHUIS RUYS RUYS 12 12JUWELENHUIS JUWELIER SLAETS SLAETS ** ** 13 13JUWELIER NADINE WIJNANTS WIJNANTS 14 14NADINE TAEYMANS TAEYMANS 15 15NICONICO ORIANE DIAMONDS DIAMONDS 16 16ORIANE ORSINI DIAMONDS DIAMONDS * * 17 17ORSINI RAYJO * * 18 18RAYJO REMBRANDT JORDAN JORDAN 19 19REMBRANDT RÖELL JEWELLERY JEWELLERY * * 20 20RÖELL RUDIAM * * 21 21RUDIAM S I N 22 DERDER VEKEN VEKEN JUWELIERS JUWELIERS * * 22 T - J OVANVAN RISP OOR T MEEUSSEN MEEUSSEN GOUDSMEDERIJ GOUDSMEDERIJ 23 23WIMWIM WOUTERS & HENDRIX & HENDRIX 24 24WOUTERS

GEME

DETAILED MAP

IËLE

SC HE LD E

I TA L I

ST R A A T

S TA D H U I S

16� UI

23 19

IT A L IË

AR KT

K AT H E D R AA L

GR O E N PLAAT S

LA NG E

EIE

CAR

NOT

GA STH UIS STR A AT

RUBENSHUIS HO PLA ND

SCHUTTER SH OFST RAAT

AP PE

M O D E N AT I E

R LE I

RT E

DE K E Y SE

LEI

IJK

NKR

RSVE

R AA T

MEIR

FRA

OUWE

N TE ST

M EI R

ME IR

WAPPER

SEE DETAILED MAP G EM EE

HUIDEV ETTERS TRA AT

TR AA T

815 1 ST

NI EU WS

ST R AA

LM AN

LEI

SUI

O E P O OR LANGE K

’T STEEN

STR

ERS

TRA

R IJ F

ANTWERPEN C E N T R AA L

KLO

OST

ZO O

PEL IKA AN

N AT

IO N

ALE

STR

A AT

STR AAT

R IS P

OOR

M AT

TEN

T-JO

Q U IN

S IN

S IJ S

AT RA ST LK VO

KONINKLIJK MUSEUM VOOR SCHONE KUNSTEN

IKA

ITS

LEI

AT GRAAF VAN EGMON TSTRA

S TA D S P A R K

STR

A AT

C A RC A R N O TN O T STR STR A AT A AT

ZO O ZO O

WWW.ANTWERPSMOSTBRILLIANT.BE WWW.ANTWERPSMOSTBRILLIANT.BE A publication A publication of the of the citycity of Antwerp of Antwerp maymay — december — december 2019 2019

cover cover photo photo : noortje : noortje palmers, palmers, jewellery jewellery cover cover : nadine : nadine wijnants wijnants pub : pub ondernemen : ondernemen en stadsmarketing, en stadsmarketing, karin karin de craecker, de craecker, grote grote markt markt 1, 2000 1, 2000 antwerp antwerp — d/2019/0306/32 — d/2019/0306/32