Antwerp diamond district becomes global trading hub with 8 simultaneous auctions, 1,800 diamantaires, and $90 million in rough diamonds from Botswana, Canada, and Lesotho.
Record-Breaking September Activity in Antwerp
The Antwerp diamond district experiences unprecedented activity this month. Eight diamond auctions take place simultaneously, with four running during the first week of September.
More than 1,800 diamantaires travel from around the world to Antwerp. They compete for 900 parcels of rough diamonds.
Bonas Auction House in Antwerp provides the only facility worldwide with capacity for such large-scale operations.
Why Antwerp Dominates Global Diamond Trading
Karen Rentmeesters leads the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. She explains why producers choose Antwerp over other locations:
- Critical mass of buyers and sellers creates optimal bidding conditions
- Stable business environment with reliable trading partners
- Unique ecosystem that exists nowhere else globally
- Improved visa procedures make international travel easier
- Strategic timing allows diamonds to reach stores for year-end sales
The Belgian Consulate in Mumbai works with AWDC to streamline visa processes. This effort brings more international buyers to Antwerp auctions.
September represents the final opportunity for diamond purchases. Rough diamonds bought now can still be cut, polished, and transformed into jewelry for the crucial holiday season.
Bonas Sets Global Standard for Diamond Auctions
Philip Hoymans manages Bonas's auction house operations. The facility offers unmatched capacity for diamond trading:
- 32 viewing rooms provide space for simultaneous auctions
- 191 security cameras monitor all auction activities
- 8 bailiffs oversee auction proceedings
- 2,000 daily weight-checks ensure no stones go missing
- 13,000 expected bids across 900 diamond parcels
The auction house handles 850,000 carats of rough diamonds. This equals 170 kilograms with an estimated value of $90 million.
Global Sources of Rough Diamonds
The September auctions feature diamonds from seven countries:
- Botswana
- Canada
- Lesotho
- Brazil
- Tanzania
- Namibia
- Angola
Each country contributes unique diamond characteristics to the global market.
Understanding Diamond Tender Process
Diamond tenders connect mining companies directly with diamantaires. The process works through structured bidding on composed parcels.
Mining companies sell rough diamonds straight from mines. Bonas acts as service provider, organizing tenders with mining companies.
The auction house provides market expertise, trained staff, and complete infrastructure. This system helps mining companies reach optimal sale prices for their diamonds.
Market Impact and Future Outlook
Antwerp's September diamond rush demonstrates the city's continued dominance in global diamond trading. The concentration of buyers, sellers, and infrastructure creates market conditions found nowhere else.
International cooperation between AWDC and diplomatic partners strengthens Antwerp's position. Streamlined visa processes and reliable business practices attract diamantaires worldwide.
The timing of September auctions aligns with jewelry industry needs. Diamonds purchased now enter the supply chain for holiday season sales in major markets like the United States.
The Antwerp diamond district reinforces its position as the world's leading diamond trading hub with eight auctions scheduled for September 2025. Over 1,800 diamantaires will bid on 900 parcels of rough diamonds worth $90 million, sourced from seven countries. Bonas Auction House provides the world's largest capacity with 32 viewing rooms, making simultaneous auctions possible.
