Q.) Why do you go all the way to Antwerp, Belgium to buy diamonds?
Antwerp, Belgium is the diamond capital of the world--their diamond district has been there for more than 500 years. In fact, 60-80% of all the diamonds in the world are cut and traded in Antwerp. When we’re in Antwerp, we are in diamond-cutting offices that have millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds. The diamonds are pre-sorted into parcels, grouped by approximate size and quality. A parcel of one-carat diamonds may have hundreds of diamonds in it ranging from 1.00 to 1.15 carats each, in SI-1 to SI-2 clarity, G-H-I colors. Every diamond in the parcel is the same price per carat. We literally look through hundreds of diamonds, examining each one and picking the very best and get the best value for your money.
Q.) What are you looking for when selecting diamonds?
Every diamond in a parcel is grouped based on similar attributes. The cutter unlocks the brilliance of the diamond. Not all J SI-1s will be alike. When you compare two or more diamonds you can see the difference. We are looking for the diamonds that stand out.
Q.) Can anyone buy diamonds in Antwerp?
Very few jewelers have access to the world-famous Antwerp Diamond Center. As members of IJO, the Independent Jewelers Organization, we are allowed into cutting offices to deal directly with our diamond cutters. There are no middle-men or brokers involved so we can offer our customers incredible value for extremely impressive diamonds.
Q.) When are you leaving for Antwerp and how can customers get a diamond from Antwerp?
We leave April 6 and are taking pre-sale orders for diamonds. Customers give us a budget, the shape they want, and the quality. Then we go to Antwerp and search through hundreds of carats of diamonds and find the very best for them. If they aren’t delighted when they see their diamonds, their deposit is refunded. But we've never had that happen! Any size and shape, fancy colors, unusual cuts, matched pairs, you name it. Antwerp has them all. It’s what we do. Nothing is better than to have us personally select a diamond to mark a significant occasion!
If you are interested in Towne Square Jewelers hand selecting the diamond of your dreams, give us a call at 217-348-8340 or stop by the store at 429 W. Lincoln in Charleston.