The Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair unfolded at the Antwerp Diamond Bourse (Beurs voor Diamanthandel) with a favourable attendance by European jewellers and diamond buyers across the over 40 exhibition booths.

Thierry Silber, a principal of Diamaz International said the fair came at a time it was most needed. "While it is true that the economic crisis is not yet behind us, a fair of this exclusive nature sends a clear message to the downstream jewellery market that the diamond business is investing in its future and aiming to grow its market share. The luxury product market is re-calibrating itself, and interest and demand for high-end diamonds and diamond jewellery is climbing back up. This is the time to meet new, potential buyers who are looking for innovative ideas and better products. We, as diamantaires, can help them, not only with product but also with a range of services they have not experienced before."

Avi Pinchasi of diamond manufacturer J. Pinchasi and Sons, said the concept of an invitation-only fair exclusively featuring loose diamonds was well received. "This first edition of the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair will prove its potential and we will surely see a larger show next year."

Artur Beller, president of the Antwerp Diamond Bourse, said, "This is exactly the atmosphere we had in mind. Our guests can visit each and every exhibiting company at leisure, introduce themselves, take stock of what goods they have to offer and make purchases on site." The fair is a by-invitation event.