The Antwerp diamond sector presented an exclusive ring set with 321 natural diamonds to US president Donald Trump during the celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary in the Parc du Cinquantenaire in Brussels, according to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC).
The ring, designed and crafted by Antwerp jeweller and diamantaire David Gotlib and certified by HRD Antwerp, is made of 18‑karat gold with 321 natural diamonds and 75 gemstones.
The design is inspired by American Super Bowl rings and includes subtle references to the 250th anniversary.
"We are extremely honoured with this beautiful ring. This exceptional gift not only reflects the craftsmanship for which Antwerp is known worldwide, but also the special bond between our countries," said US ambassador Bill White.
AWDC chairperson Isidore Morsel said the US has been Antwerp’s most important trading partner for generations.
“A large share of the natural diamonds traded in Antwerp ultimately finds its way to American jewellers and consumers,” he said. “With this ring, we wanted to celebrate this enduring economic relationship while highlighting what Antwerp stands for globally: trust, craftsmanship, and natural diamonds.”
The presentation also served as an opportunity to inform visitors about the distinction between natural and synthetic diamonds.
Guests observed a diamond cutter at work and had their jewellery scanned by HRD Antwerp to verify whether it contained natural or synthetic diamonds.
“For the naked eye, natural and synthetic diamonds look identical, but their origin, rarity, value and societal impact differ fundamentally,” said Morsel.
“Natural diamonds are unique products of nature, formed billions of years ago, and their supply is finite. Moreover, the natural diamond sector has a positive impact on millions of people worldwide.
“Synthetic diamonds, on the other hand, are an industrially produced product that can be manufactured in unlimited quantities.
That is why it is important that consumers are properly informed about the differences, so they can make an informed choice.”
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
