Turnout strong at Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair
February 14, 2010 – Turnout was strong at the first, by-invitation-only Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair, which took place at the Antwerp Diamond Bourse from February 7-9.
The fair was sponsored by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), the umbrella organisation of the Belgian diamond industry.
Dozens of European jewellers and diamond buyers moved among the more than 40 stands representing diamond firms in the bourse’s trading hall, according to the Antwerp Facets News Service.
“Our guests can visit each exhibiting company at leisure, introduce themselves, take stock of what goods they have to offer and make purchases on site,” said Artur Beller, president of the Antwerp Diamond Bourse.
Thierry Silber, a principal of Diamaz International, said the fair came at a time when it was most needed.
“While it is true that the economic crisis is not yet behind us, a fair of this exclusive nature sends a clear message to the downstream jewellery market that the diamond business is investing in its future and aiming to grow its market share.”
Avi Pinchasi of diamond manufacturer J. Pinchasi and Sons, said he welcomed the concept of an invitation-only fair featuring loose diamonds.
“This first edition of the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair will prove its potential and we will surely see a larger show next year,” Antwerp Facets News Service quoted him as saying.
