Purchasing diamonds doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge, you’re ready to find that perfect sparkle. Here’s everything you need to know about buying the best quality diamonds in Antwerp and how to easily buy them.
But before we start, let’s learn
Why Antwerp earned its reputation as the diamond capital of the world?
Antwerp, the oldest diamond center in Europe, has a rich history of diamond trading dating back to around 1450. The city became a hub for diamonds from India, with skilled Flemish cutters transforming them into beautiful gems. The discovery of diamonds in South Africa in 1869 further boosted Antwerp’s diamond trade, leading to the establishment of the first diamond trading organizations. Today, Antwerp is still one of the world’s major diamond trading centers.
Now that you know about Antwerp, here are some
Expert tips for buying the best quality diamonds in Antwerp:
Research Shop Locations
The main area for diamond jewelry shopping in Antwerp is around Vestingstraat, Appelmansstraat, and Lange Herentalsestraat, near Central Station. These streets have many boutiques, making it easy to compare offerings because the shops are close together and highly competitive. Always ensure that any diamond you are interested in comes with a grading report from a reputable laboratory to help you make an accurate comparison.
Choose GIA-Graded Diamonds
Look for retailers who sell diamonds graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). GIA certification is widely trusted for its quality and accuracy. You can find these retailers through the GIA website or the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) directory, ensuring you buy from a credible source.
Select a Qualified Jeweler
Choose a jeweler with the same care you would use when selecting a doctor or lawyer. A jeweler’s reputation is crucial. Look whether they are selling GIA certified diamonds or not and for credentials like Graduate Gemologist (GG) from the Gemological Institute of America, indicating extensive training and expertise. Recommendations from friends or online reviews can also help you find trustworthy professionals.
Understand Store Services
Different stores offer various levels of service, including resizing, mounting, remounting, inscriptions, and a range of products. It’s important to understand the return policy and credit terms of the store where you plan to make a purchase. Thoroughly enquiring about these services can save you time and potential hassle later.
Check Business Hours
Business hours in Antwerp’s diamond district are generally from 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays. Many shops close on weekends, with some closing early on Fridays, especially during the winter. It’s advisable to check the specific hours of the shops you plan to visit beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.
Claim Your Tax Refund
If you are a non-EU resident, you are eligible for a VAT refund on purchases of €125.01 or more. Ensure that your jeweler can issue a Tax Refund Form so you can claim back the VAT. Although jewelry prices in Antwerp may not be cheaper compared to other countries with similar tax rates, the VAT refund can make a significant difference.
Take away unique souvenir
If you can’t buy jewelry for all your friends and family, consider buying diamond-shaped chocolates as a unique souvenir. Besides diamonds, Antwerp is famous for its chocolates. Del Rey on Appelmansstraat is a well-known chocolate boutique in the diamond district, and there are several other shops on Keyserlei, the main street leading to Central Station. These chocolates make a delightful memento of your trip.
But what sets Antwerp Jeweler apart? Let’s delve into the key factors that make Antwerp renowned jewelers a preferred choice:
- Reliable experts: Antwerp jewelers are associated with multiple diamond approval agencies and hold certificates to validate their authenticity. This ensures that your purchase meets the promised standards.
- Knowledge like Master: Unlike random salespersons, Antwerp jewelers possess in-depth knowledge about what they are selling. They provide honest advice and willingly address all your jewelry related queries, even if you’re not ready to make a purchase. Their passion for diamonds reflects in their willingness to educate customers, empowering you to make informed decisions.
- Going above and beyond when it comes to craftmanship: Diamond polishing is an intricate art mastered by trained professionals at Antwerp. Renowned jewelers employ skilled diamond cutters who enhance the diamond’s brilliance through meticulous polishing. This craftsmanship ensures that each diamond sparkles, distinguishing it from poorly polished stones commonly found in non-renowned stores.
- Antwerp Jewelers never hesitate to educate their customers: Purchasing a diamond is a significant investment, and renowned jewelers understand the importance of buyer education. Antwerp Jewelers willingly educate customers about the 4 C’s (cut, clarity, color, and carat weight) and other important factors, empowering you to make informed choices aligned with your preferences and budget.
- Privacy: Renowned Antwerp jewelers understand the importance of diamond purchases. They offer private showrooms where customers can explore their options in a serene and confidential setting, away from prying eyes. This ensures a comfortable and dignified shopping experience, enhancing customer satisfaction.
Do you know: Antwerp’s diamond district handles about 84% of the world’s rough diamonds and boasts a turnover of $54 billion. The district is home to 1,700 diamond companies and over 4,500 diamond dealers, making it a top destination to find best quality diamonds. Daily, millions of diamonds pass through the district, destined for locations around the globe.
However, the abundance of diamond dealers in Antwerp can make choosing the right one challenging.
To navigate the market successfully, it is crucial to understand how to select the perfect diamond. So, here are some common pitfalls to consider when buying diamonds in Antwerp to ensure you make a well-informed decision.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
To avoid being overcharged or misled, consider the following precautions:
- Educate Yourself: Before purchasing, educate yourself about diamonds. Understand the market trends, the value of the 4 Cs, and what to look for in a high-quality diamond.
- Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first dealer or jeweler you find. Compare prices from multiple dealers to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Inspect the Diamond: If possible, inspect the diamond personally or have a trusted expert examine it. Look for any inclusions, blemishes, and the overall quality of the cut.
- Be Wary of Deals Too Good to Be True: Extremely low prices can be a red flag. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify the authenticity and quality of the diamond.
Sparkle and Shine!!
If you can’t visit Antwerp, the world-renowned diamond capital, at a specific time of the year, don’t worry. You can still buy high-quality diamonds from home. Take advantage of special deals and purchase the best quality diamonds from Antwerp online while sitting on your couch.
Precious Jewels, an Antwerp-based diamond jeweler, gives you the chance to buy stunning diamonds and seek diamond expertise through online services. We deliver Antwerp diamonds to your doorstep. Our expert assistance helps you select the right diamonds according to your needs.
At Precious Jewels, we prioritize offering exceptional value to our customers, ensuring superior quality jewelry at competitive prices. Each diamond comes with a diamond certificate. Our certified diamonds, graded for color, clarity, and cut, are notably affordable compared to other renowned brands.
Interested in purchasing Best Quality Diamond in Antwerp? Visit our showroom or contact one of Precious Jewels’ diamond experts to schedule an appointment. Experience firsthand the quality and value we offer in our exquisite collection of diamonds.
