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Antwerp Diamond Capital of the World - and Diamond Divas exhibition by Mauro Bottaro
Today, Antwerp remains a global powerhouse in the diamond trade. With the thriving diamond Stock Exchange, in the heart of the high security Diamond Square Mile, almost 85% of the world's rough diamonds, and about half of the polished diamonds (est. $16 billion US), pass through Antwerp every year. There are approximately 4,000 people working in Antwerp's diamond-cutting industry alone. The Antwerp Diamond Centre covers one square mile, housing 1500 diamond companies and 4 diamond bourses. In this highly protected quarter, thousands of highly skilled diamond workers are active to keep up the international quality label ”Cut in Antwerp” based on a tradition of 5 centuries. Millions of diamonds are literally passing through their hands. The Antwerp diamond companies have the best polishers in the world. From the 12th of April till the 6th of June, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre has organized an exhibition called Diamond Divas, featuring a selection of rare jewellery items worn by royals, high society and stars of the stage and of the screen, including Grace Kelly, Sofia Loren, Madonna and Marilyn Monroe.
