{"id":1632,"date":"2024-06-08T07:22:09","date_gmt":"2024-06-08T07:22:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/3.71.70.220\/blog\/?p=1632"},"modified":"2024-06-08T07:22:09","modified_gmt":"2024-06-08T07:22:09","slug":"everything-about-buying-the-best-quality-diamond-in-antwerp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/preciousjewels.be\/blog\/everything-about-buying-the-best-quality-diamond-in-antwerp\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything About Buying the Best Quality Diamond in Antwerp"},"content":{"rendered":"

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 <\/span>best quality diamonds in Antwerp <\/b><\/a><\/em>and how to easily buy them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But before we start, let’s learn\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Antwerp earned its reputation as the diamond capital of the world?<\/b><\/h2>\n

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\u2019s diamond trade, leading to the establishment of the first diamond trading organizations. Today, Antwerp is still one of the world\u2019s major diamond trading centers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now that you know about Antwerp, here are some\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Expert tips for buying the best quality diamonds in Antwerp:<\/b><\/h2>\n

Research Shop Locations<\/b>
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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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Choose GIA-Graded Diamonds<\/b><\/h3>\n

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<\/b>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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Select a Qualified Jeweler<\/b>
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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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understand Store Services<\/b>
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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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Check Business Hours<\/b>
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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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Claim Your Tax Refund<\/b>
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If you are a non-EU resident, you are eligible for a VAT refund on purchases of \u20ac125.01 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Take away unique souvenir\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

But what sets Antwerp Jeweler apart? Let’s delve into the key factors that make Antwerp renowned jewelers a preferred choice:<\/span><\/p>\n