Antwerp Diamond District
Antwerp, Flanders — Belgium
Known For — a five-century global hub for diamond trade, precision cutting, and trusted certification
Nestled beside Antwerp Central Station, the Antwerp Diamond District is recognized as the world's premier hub for diamond trade and craftsmanship. For over five centuries, this small network of streets has been where the world's most precious stones are bought, cut, and sold.
Antwerp handles over 80% of the world's rough diamonds at some stage of their journey — more than any other city on Earth. The district's streets — Hoveniersstraat, Schupstraat, and Rijfstraat — host hundreds of diamond offices, exchanges, and workshops, many family-run through generations.
The area's strength lies in its precision cutting and trusted certification standards, with Antwerp's diamond bourses setting the global benchmark for quality and authenticity. It's a melting pot of cultures — Jewish, Indian, Lebanese, and Belgian — all contributing to the unique rhythm and integrity of its trade.
Unlike flashy luxury districts, Antwerp's diamond trade is quiet, professional, and discreet, built on expertise, heritage, and reputation.
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Location
Notable Locations
Traveler Insights
The Antwerp Diamond District is essential for anyone fascinated by gemstones, jewelry craftsmanship, or the business of diamonds. Start at Antwerpen-Centraal and walk into Hoveniersstraat to feel the district's rhythm: glass-fronted offices, discreet storefronts, and compact workshops where cutters and polishers work to exacting standards. Visit DIVA for clear context on cutting, grading, and the city's diamond history, and consider arranging appointments if you want an inside look at atelier processes.
Highlights & Tips:
- Best time: Weekday mornings — trade is active and offices are most accessible.
- Respect protocol: Many businesses are appointment-only and security is strict; call ahead if you want a tour.
- What to look for: precision cutting benches, grading certificates, and small family ateliers that preserve generational techniques.
- Nearby anchor: Antwerpen-Centraal (easy transit) — use it as your start/end point for a short walking route through the district.
- Combine visits: Pair DIVA with a walk down Hoveniersstraat and stops at AWDC for a fuller picture of Antwerp's role in the global diamond market.
Notable Businesses in the District
Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC)
Hoveniersstraat 22, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
The central hub for Antwerp's diamond trade, housing offices and diamond bourses. Visit website
HRD Antwerp (diamond lab)
Hoveniersstraat 22, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
Leading diamond grading and certification laboratory. Visit website
Rosy Blue NV
Hoveniersstraat 53, Box 127, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
Major international diamond manufacturer and distributor. Visit website
MID Belgium / MID Diamonds
Hoveniersstraat 53 (Diamond Exchange Building), 2018 Antwerp
Diamond trading and manufacturing company in the Diamond Exchange Building.
Ajediam
Hoveniersstraat 19, 2018 Antwerp (Belamco / Diamond District offices)
Diamond trading office in the heart of the district.
Belgium Diamonds Ltd
Hoveniersstraat 2, ADC Building, office 322, 2018 Antwerp
Diamond retailer and wholesaler in the ADC Building. Visit website
BelDiamond
Hoveniersstraat 30, 2018 Antwerp
Diamond showroom offering retail and custom services.
Lumia (Lumiagem)
Hoveniersstraat 35, 2018 Antwerp
Diamond office and showroom specializing in fine gems.
Diamonds Forever
Appelmansstraat 1, 2018 Antwerp
Diamond retailer near the main diamond quarter. Visit website
Direggio
Appelmansstraat 25, Antwerp
Diamond trading office in the diamond quarter.