My first Antwerp trip was one to remember.
I learned so much and was able to hand-pick so many special diamonds for my clients that I will definitely be back!
Here are the five things I loved the most (besides the diamonds, of course):
1. Learning and Collaboration
The collaboration and learning from the other stores that were there was incredible. I met so many new store owners from all over the U.S., and even Canada. I learned new ways to do things, what doesn't work for them, what does, and just better and fresh ideas to offer all of you. Being able to share and grow with others in this industry was a huge highlight for me.
2. Visiting the Cutting Facility
Seeing the time and process involved in cutting diamonds... WOW. Talk about patience. The focus and strain on the eyes to cut diamonds as small as 1mm and up is unbelievable. The precision that goes into each diamond is something else. Their goal is to cut every single one with triple X parameters. Once they can master melee (smaller than 1ct) diamonds, then they move on to larger stones. Those people deserve a vacation and a massage!
3. The Food
GOSH. The food. Holy smokes, it was the best of the best. I over-ate every single day, and it shows! Ha! I made it a point to try Belgian favorites and seasonal dishes every day, and I enjoyed every bite.
4. Walking Through the Diamond Capital
This was hard to rank because it was so special. The narrow streets, the old buildings, the shops and diamond offices one after another... it felt like stepping into a whole different world. I met and interacted with people from all over the globe. I learned that Antwerp is a melting pot of cultures, much like America. Most people I met have been in this industry their entire lives, and that kind of passion and experience is something I won’t forget.
5. Hand-Picking Your Diamonds
And finally—this part was everything. I got to look through hundreds of diamonds and selectively hand-pick ones just for you. I price shopped, cut shopped, clarity shopped, and sent pictures along the way. I posted updates on stories and loved how involved you all got in the process. Your trust in me to bring back the perfect diamond made it even more meaningful. I got to use the skills I’ve built over the past 16 years, in my element, for the people I care about. For that... thank you.
If you missed out this year, don’t worry. I’ll be going again next year, and I already can’t wait!
