The Square Mile: Antwerps Fabled Diamond District - Heart In Diamond
Nestled on the banks of the river Scheldt in Belgiums northern Flanders region rests Antwerp--a city famous for its historic architecture, its bustling port, and its enormous role in the worlds diamond industry. As gem enthusiasts know, diamonds value derives not only from the scarcity of gem quality diamonds, but also from the tremendous skill and talent (not to mention equipment) needed to cut and polish a diamond, thus turning it from a raw material into one of the worlds most dazzling gems. This art developed primarily in Antwerp's historic square mile, a neighborhood featuring dozens of diamond cutters that see roughly 84% of the worlds gem diamonds pass through on their way to becoming fine jewelry.