Private Antwerp’s Diamonds and Jewellery Old City Center Historic Tour

Antwerp’s Private Diamonds and Jewellery Old City Center Tour offers an engaging two-hour exploration into the city’s renowned jewelry industry. Priced at $231.24 per group (up to 15 people), this private tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and features visits to historic sites, independent jewelry boutiques, and working ateliers. It’s an ideal choice for those interested in Antwerp’s diamond trade, craftsmanship, and contemporary design, providing an authentic, personalized experience.

The tour starts at the DIVA Museum, a cornerstone of Antwerp’s diamond and silver heritage, and concludes at the studio of Rembrandt Jodan. With reviews rating it 4.5 out of 5, the tour is praised for guiding visitors into non-touristy areas and offering detailed insights into the city’s jewelry past and present. While the tour emphasizes history and craftsmanship, it does not include visits to diamond cutters, a detail important for expectations. Still, the experience remains highly valuable, especially due to the expert guides and exclusive atelier visits.

Key Points

• Private, guided 2-hour experience limited to groups of up to 15
• Starts at DIVA Museum and visits historic streets and designer ateliers
• Explores Antwerp’s diamond history, from first traders to modern artisans
• Includes visits to independent boutiques and contemporary workshops
• Meeting point at DIVA Museum and ending at Rembrandt Jodan’s studio
• Pricing is $231.24, with most bookings made 44 days in advance

Antwerp’s Jewelry Heritage Begins at DIVA Museum

The tour kicks off at DIVA, Antwerp’s diamond, jewellery, and silver museum, located at Suikerrui 17/19. Here, the guide introduces Antwerp’s deep-rooted connections to diamond trading and craftsmanship. Although admission isn’t included, visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibits after the tour, which showcase the city’s jewelry history and artistry.

Starting at DIVA provides context for the city’s prominence in the diamond world. The museum’s location in the historic old town makes it a fitting starting point to understand Antwerp’s evolution from a trading hub to a jewelry capital. The guide’s insights set the stage before heading into the city’s streets and ateliers.

The Historic Heart of Antwerp’s Diamond Trade: Grote Markt and Wisselstraat

From DIVA, the tour proceeds to the Grote Markt, where Antwerp’s reputation as a diamond trading center is rooted. During the annual fairs, foreign merchants gather here to trade gems and jewelry, highlighting the city’s longstanding role in the global diamond industry.

Next, the Wisselstraat—meaning “exchange street”—reveals the street’s past as a hub for currency exchange used by foreign buyers. This historic street offers a glimpse into Antwerp’s economic history, and visitors learn how the phrase “bankrupt” originates from the risky exchanges that once took place here.

Saint Paul’s Church and the Diamond Treasury

A visit to Saint Paul’s Church offers a look into Antwerp’s silversmithing and jewelry traditions. The church holds a treasury with over 3,000 diamonds, showcasing the city’s historic wealth and craftsmanship. The 15-minute stop provides a tangible connection to Antwerp’s glittering past, emphasizing the significance of religious and civic institutions in supporting jewelry artisans.

Exploring the Street of Diamond Cutters: Zwartzustersstraat and Zirkstraat

The streets of Zwartzustersstraat and Zirkstraat each tell part of Antwerp’s diamond cutting story. Zwartzustersstraat, once bustling with jewelry shops and diamond cutters’ ateliers, exemplifies the city’s industrial past. Meanwhile, Zirkstraat is notable as home to the first diamond cutter in the 15th century, making it a key location for anyone interested in the technological evolution of diamond craftsmanship.

These stops highlight Antwerp’s long-standing reputation as a center for quality diamond cutting and craftsmanship.

Visiting a Contemporary Atelier: Pascale Masselis

One of the tour’s highlights is an entrance to Pascale Masselis’s atelier. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Antwerp, Pascale works exclusively with 18-carat gold, creating unique, handcrafted jewelry. Visitors observe her craft, and Pascale offers custom pieces, including transforming old jewelry into modern designs. This stop lasts about 15 minutes and emphasizes personalized, artisanal work.

The experience offers insight into modern jewelry creation and highlights the city’s continuing tradition of craftsmanship.

The Silver and Goldsmiths’ Nation House at Lange Koepoortstraat

Next, the guide explains the significance of Lange Koepoortstraat, home to Antwerp’s nation house for silversmiths and goldsmiths. This location reflects the formal organization of artisans and tradespeople in the city’s history, illustrating the professional community behind Antwerp’s jewelry industry.

While the street no longer hosts bustling shops, it remains a symbol of the city’s historical artisan networks.

The Artistic Community in Wijngaardstraat

Wijngaardstraat stands out as a lively hub for independent jewelers and artists. Visitors can explore the studios of Gerda De Vrij, who studied under Klaus Ullrich, and Wim Meeussen, renowned for his wedding jewelry and silver collections. The street also features Hanne Schoofs, who continually seeks new techniques, and Eva Crauwels, known for her Retro-Romantic collections.

This stop allows for direct interaction with artists, highlighting Antwerp’s vibrant contemporary jewelry scene. Visitors have around 20 minutes to browse, chat, and appreciate the creative diversity on display.

Visiting Rembrandt Jodan’s Multidisciplinary Studio

The tour concludes at Rembrandt Jodan’s studio on Wijngaardstraat 18. His space combines an art gallery, atelier, and jewelry shop, reflecting his multidisciplinary approach. Visitors are invited into his creative space, which captures the fusion of art and jewelry-making.

The stop provides a final, personalized encounter with Antwerp’s artistic community and caps the tour with a look at contemporary jewelry and art.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

This private tour is designed for groups up to 15 people, priced at $231.24, and is typically booked 44 days in advance. It features mobile ticketing for easy access and lasts approximately 2 hours. The tour begins at DIVA Museum and ends at Rembrandt Jodan’s atelier, making it convenient for visitors to explore nearby attractions afterward.

The experience emphasizes personal interaction, with guides tailoring the visit to your interests. It is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and locations accessible via public transportation.

The Sum Up: A Deep Dive into Antwerp’s Jewelry Scene

This private Antwerp jewelry tour offers a well-balanced mix of historical context, artisan visits, and contemporary design. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, design lovers, or jewelry collectors seeking an authentic look into the city’s craftsmanship and trading heritage. The tour’s strength lies in knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and exclusive access to independent ateliers.

While it doesn’t include visits to diamond cutters—something to note for those specifically interested in cutting techniques—the tour compensates with rich storytelling and insider visits. It remains a compelling option for those wanting a comprehensive, small-group journey through Antwerp’s glittering past and vibrant present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention engaging guides who can entertain younger visitors, making it suitable for families.

Are admission fees included?
No, entry to DIVA Museum isn’t included but is recommended for after the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the group size limit?
The tour is limited to up to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
Most locations are accessible, but specific details aren’t provided.

Are guide tips included?
Tipping isn’t included, but guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging style.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historic sites, artisan visits, and private ateliers offers a unique, in-depth look at Antwerp’s jewelry scene.