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Beginnings of Diamonds in Bruges
Bruges and surrounding
Museums, Galleries, Exhibitions
Museums, Galleries, Exhibitions

Diamonds have been one of Belgium's most important exports from time immemorial. The diamond trade in Bruges had begun long before it became known in Amsterdam and Antwerp, which were the gem trade centers back then. According to the city archives research, there were several jewelers who skillfully polished diamonds as early as the 14th century. That's when the incredible story of precious stones began.

At the end of the 20th century, it was decided that this story should be immortalized. So, the Diamond Museum was opened in Bruges in the summer of 1999. The exhibition covered a collection created for the Burgundian Dukes in the 14th century. At that time, the jeweler Lodewyk van Berken invented diamond polishing, an unprecedented method of processing rough stones.

The museum displays the entire story of diamond production: from the moment they are extracted from the depths of the mines to the store counter. There are tools for polishing, cutting, and measuring precious stones. Although some exhibits are more than several hundred years old, they have been preserved in excellent condition.

If you want to feel like a true jeweler for at least a few minutes, the museum staff will allow you to touch these tools.

Besides, the museum hosts a daily demonstration of stone processing, accompanied by a fascinating lecture on the most important features of diamonds and their widespread use in jewelry and various new industries.

Having been inspired by the history of creating diamonds and their beauty, you can go to other, equally exciting sights of Bruges. Some of them are within walking distance: the Church of Our Lady (12th-13th centuries) with the tomb of Mary of Burgundy; the Gruninge Museum, which is the Bruges' main art museum. Or you can just walk along the canal to the St. Bonifacius Bridge.

Address: Katelijnestraat, 43

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