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• Comprehensive Jadeite Jade Practical Course at HKIG

  Comprehensive Jadeite Jade Practical Course at HKIG

  While gemstones like diamonds, rubies and sapphires are well studied, there is virtually no course covering the field of jadeite jade. With that The Hong Kong Institute of Gemmology (HKIG), founder of the treated jadeite classfication "A, B, C, B+C" system, proudly presents the world's first ever systematic course "Comprehensive Jadeite Jade Practical Course". This specialized course will start in August and will cover many areas ideal for gemmological lab specialists, including vareities and treatment identification. Apart from theory and practical classes, field trips to factories, auction sites and markets in Mainland China are also arranged to further knowledge boost up. For more information and enquiries, please contact: Dr. Miro NG The Hong Kong Institute of Gemmology 4/F Tung Hip Commercial Building 248 Des Voeux Road Hong Kong Tel: +852 2815 1880 (ext. 209) Fax: +852 2854 3970 E-mail: mirong@hkig.com.hk

• Upcoming Courses in Antwerp

  Upcoming Courses in Antwerp

  Please find here below an overview of the upcoming courses in Antwerp: Dutch course Diamond Grading from August 2 - August 20 Price: 1714,88 Euros (excl. VAT) French Course Sorting of Rough diamonds from July 19 - July 30 Price: 1533,06 Euros (excl. VAT) September courses: September 13 - October 8: French Diamond Grading course (4 weeks) September 6 – October 1: English Diamond Grading course (4 weeks) September 20 – September 24: 3nglish “Contemporary Diamond and Jewellery design” course Members of Graduates Club: 5% discount Members of bourses: 15% discount Members of IDMA: 15% discount Please take into account that discounts are personal and not cumulative. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Education at tel.: +32 3 222 07 01 or e-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be.

• CSR Course in Antwerp

  CSR Course in Antwerp

  The World Jewellery Confederation Education Foundation (WJCEF), a body established by CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation, in coordination with the United Nations, to instil the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility in the international jewellery industry and trade, has inaugurated its first ever Executive Course in Antwerp. The three-day course, which kicked off on June 20, emphasises the connection between CSR and the promotion of sustainable economic, social and environmental activity in countries in which the jewellery and gemstones industries are active. Hosting the course in the Belgian diamond centre is HRD Antwerp, which also treated participants with a tour of its grading and research facilities. “The jewellery industry has come a long way since the year 2000, and the understanding that we cannot allow our business to cause injury to innocent people is well and truly imbedded in our consciousness. But the demand that we do no harm is only side of the CSR coin. Our goal here is to consider the other side of that coin, and that is how the jewellery business acts proactively to bring about sustainable economic and social development in the countries in which we operate,” said Gaetano Cavalieri, president of CIBJO and WJCEF. The general focus of the Executive Course was set on the first day of the proceedings, with the team of lecturers directing participants to the United Nation’s eight Millennium Developments Goals, which are meant to provide solutions to the most acute challenges to human society. Outlining the mission were Dr. Hanifa Mezoui, president of UN-ONG-IRENE; Dr. Francois Loriot, vice president of AIFOMD; and Dr. William Gunn, president of the International Association for Humanitarian Medicine. Attending the course is Jocelyn Fenard, chief of Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). “This first training session organised through WJCEF by CIBJO, an NGO accredited to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, conducted by renown experts and trainers, is an important milestone for advancing corporate social responsibility in the diamond and jewellery industry, as a way towards supporting the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and promoting Global Compact principles. The level of interactivity and engagement shown by the participants, all worldwide executive managers, is really impressive. It furthermore demonstrates their commitment as well as the need for further training,” he said. During the second and third days of the course, the participants, who come from the United States, the United Kingdom, Belgium, India, Italy, Switzerland, Israel, Canada and Madagascar, will study the application of CSR principles to small and medium-sized companies, together with CSR consultants Michael and Ivor Hopkins of MHC International; and will receive a special overview of Corporate Social Responsibility presented by Dr. M.J. (Mimi) Marroco and Ron Knowles, experts from the CSR Certificate programme at the University of St. Michaels's College in the University of Toronto. On June 20, the first day of the Executive Course, the participants were hosted at Antwerp City Hall at special reception by Antwerp’s deputy mayor, Philip Heylen

• Belgium HRD Association China

  Belgium HRD Association China

  HRD Antwerp, the commercial subsidiary of AWDC, officially inaugurated the Belgium HRD Association China, during the Antwerp Week in the Belgium-EU pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo 2010. The Belgium HRD Association China is a new, non-commercial trade association established to promote networking opportunities between graduates of HRD Antwerp courses. It gives its members a direct link to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, and provides up-to-date information about diamond industry developments while seeking to improve dialogue between the Chinese and Belgian diamond sectors. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Antwerp Governor, Ms. Cathy Berx who travelled to the World Expo especially to attend the Antwerp Week events. The World Expo opened on May and continues until the end of October by which time organisers estimate 70 million people will have visited the site. The Belgium HRD Association China will be located in the China Diamond Trading Centre, Shanghai, at the HRD Antwerp premises. For more information, contact Jun Jiang at tel: +86-21-5098-8966 or e-mail: jun.jiang@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp introduces D-Scope DV4 at JCK Las Vegas June

  HRD Antwerp introduces D-Scope DV4 at JCK Las Vegas June

  HRD Antwerp will be introducing its D-Scope DV4, a portable microscope designed for the diamond market, at the June 4-7 JCK Las Vegas Show. The D-Scope DV4 is a high-quality stereo zoom microscope with gem manipulator and vacuum system. It is equipped with a sophisticated illumination system that consists of unique halogen darkfield lighting and LED-top lights for quick examination possibilities. Visitors to HRD Antwerp's Booth 968, on level 2 of the Diamond Plaza, will also be offered the chance to test the HRD Antwerp D-Screen, the first compact device able to distinguish natural from synthetic colourless or near-colourless polished diamonds. The D-Screen indicates if a polished diamond is natural and whether it has been subjected to colour enhancement. Synthetic diamonds and diamonds subjected to a HPHT-treatment are instantly detected. The technology used is based on optical measurement by projecting shortwave UV radiation through the diamond. The JCK Las Vegas Show is one of the most important on the diamond and jewellery industries' calendar. With the U.S. recovery slowly gaining pace, companies will be attempting to guage the level of demand for jewellery.

• Attend HRD Antwerp courses in Singapore

  Attend HRD Antwerp courses in Singapore

  HRD Antwerp, together with the Far East Gemmological Institute in Singapore, are providing courses in Singapore. Students can register for the following HRD Antwerp courses, which will take place in June 2010: * Certified Diamond Grading Courses (31 May - 12 June 2010) A non-refundable deposit of SGD 1000 can be paid to secure a place. The full balance of SGD 2200 is settled on the first day. * Diamond Workshop (14-15 June 2010) A non-refundable deposit of SGD 300 can be paid to secure a place. Applicants may choose to attend either days. Price for one day is SGD 600, price for 2 days is SGD 1000. For more information, please contact: Loke Huiying Far East Gemological Institute 360 Orchard Road #09-04 International Building Singapore 238869 Tel: +65 6735 8569 Fax: +65 6732 0163 E-mail: info@gem.com.sg iability. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp certificates with sealed diamonds on show at Hong Kong International Show

  HRD Antwerp certificates with sealed diamonds on show at Hong Kong International Show

  Amongst the 41 Antwerp diamond companies exhibiting at the Hong Kong International Show (June 24-27), HRD Antwerp will have a dedicated booth, located at GE12, in the Antwerp Diamond Pavilion (Grand Hall), Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. During the show, HRD Antwerp will offer visitors the opportunity to have their HRD Antwerp certified diamonds placed in a special safety seal. The HRD Antwerp sealing services have become a widely requested option since it guarantees that the certificate and diamond to which it relates go together, and keeps the gem safe from grease and dirt. HRD Antwerp designed the sealing to hold the diamond while displaying its beauty. In addition, the sealing is tamper-proof, and there are three safety mechanisms that ensure that once the package has been opened it cannot be resealed. This is easily seen due to the disruptions to the wavy blue pattern on the surface of the package, the fracturing of the red electrostatic bars, and the words ‘SAFETY SEAL ANNULLED’ and ‘VOID’. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• Chopard and HRD Antwerp Join the Responsible Jewellery Council

  Chopard and HRD Antwerp Join the Responsible Jewellery Council

  The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) today announced that two international organizations headquartered in the European market have joined the Council's membership. Chopard, one of the world's leading jewellery brands and HRD Antwerp, a well recognized diamond laboratory, join more than 200 companies and trade associations as RJC members. Under the RJC System, all Commercial Members of the RJC are required to be audited by accredited, third party auditors to verify their conformance with the RJC's Code of Practices to become certified. The RJC Certification System is unmatched in any other industry for the quality and breadth of its scope and standards and the integrity and transparency of its developmental process. "I am delighted that Chopard and HRD Antwerp have become members of the Responsible Jewellery Council. Chopard's membership of the RJC will reinforce the Council's mission of responsible business practices amongst large and small industry players," says Michael Rae, the RJC's Chief Executive Officer. Chopard joins other leading RJC member companies with timepieces in their portfolios; Baume and Mercier, Boucheron, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Gucci, Harry Winston, Jaeger-LeCoultre, LVMH-Möet Hennessy - Louis Vuitton, Montblanc, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany & Co. "HRD Antwerp will add an impressive level of expertise from the Belgian diamond industry to the RJC's efforts. They made the commitment to work with the RJC's Standard Committee on developing standards for gemmological laboratories and assayers in 2010-2011," concluded Michael Rae. "We see Chopard's decision to join the Responsible Jewellery Council as taking a leadership position in the jewellery and watch industry by strongly demonstrating our commitment to corporate social responsibility. Our participation in RJC is a further step to align Chopard's corporate philosophy with the entire jewellery community," says Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard. "We are proud to be a member of RJC and look forward to working together to ensure the responsible and ethical advancement of the industry. HRD Antwerp - Diamond Lab was the first ever diamond lab to be ISO certified. Grading labs have an obligation to the diamond industry and consumers to be independent, objective and consistent. HRD Antwerp - Diamond Lab has, since 1976, incorporated a set of procedures that guarantee the highest possible quality standards, which also underscores our commitment to the RJC standards," stated Georges Brys, General Manager, HRD Antwerp. For further information, please contact: Mila Bonini, Communications Manager Tel: +39 02 4800 2801 E-mail: Mila.bonini@responsiblejewellery.com About RJC The Responsible Jewellery Council is an international not-for-profit organisation bringing together more than 200 member companies committed to promoting responsible ethical, human rights, social and environmental practices in a transparent and accountable manner throughout the industry from mine to retail. Their commitment aims to reinforce consumer and stakeholder confidence in diamond and gold jewellery products. The Council has developed the RJC System, a certification system - which will apply to all Members' businesses that contribute to the diamond and gold jewellery supply chain. All Commercial Members of the RJC are required to be audited by accredited, third party auditors to verify their conformance with the RJC's Code of Practices and become certified under the RJC System. The Responsible Jewellery Council and a full list of its Members can be found on the web at www.responsiblejewellery.com About Chopard Celebrating its 150th Anniversary, Chopard is one of the world's leading jewellery brands. Under the impetus of the Scheufele family, Chopard experienced spectacular development. Renowned for its creativity, its state-of-the-art-technology and the excellence of its craftsmen, it became one of the leading names in the high-end watch and Jewelery industry. Entirely independent, Chopard has remained a fully independent family business. For more information please visit www.chopard.com

• Attend HRD Antwerp Courses in Hong Kong

  Attend HRD Antwerp Courses in Hong Kong

  In partnership with the Hong Kong Institute of Gemology, HRD Anwterp will hold: Certified Diamond Grading course from April 19-30 2010 For more information please contact our representative: Mr. Jason Cheung Tel: +852 3589 6100 E-mail: jason.cheung@hrdantwerp.com.hk

• HRD Antwerp新加坡课程

  HRD Antwerp新加坡课程

  HRD Antwerp和新加坡远东珠宝学院即将在新加坡开办课程. 学生可以报名参加在六月份开办的课程: 钻石分级证书课程(5月31日至6月12日) 钻石零售商课程(6月14日-15日) 更多信息请您联系: Loke Huiying Far East Gemological Institute 360 Orchard Road #09-04 International Building Singapore 238869 电话: +65 6735 8569 传真: +65 6732 0163 E-mail: info@gem.com.sg.

• Attend HRD Antwerp Courses in Australia

  Attend HRD Antwerp Courses in Australia

  In partnership with The National Council of Jewellery Valuers (NCJV), HRD Antwerp will be holding several Certified Diamond Grading Courses (CDG) and workshops on treated, synthetic and fancy coloured diamonds throughout Australia. They will be conducted during the months July till September: Brisbane CDG course: July 5-17, 2010 Workshop: July 19-20, 2010 and July 21-22, 2010 Sydney Workshop: July 26-27, 2010 and July 28-29, 2010 CDG course: July 30 – August 12, 2010 Melbourne Workshop: August 16-17, 2010 Hobart Workshop: August 21-22, 2010 Adelaide Workshop: August 26-27, 2010 CDG course: August 28 – September 9, 2010 Perth CDG course: September 13-25, 2010 Workshop: September 27-28, 2010 For more information please contact: HRD Antwerp – Education Tel: +32 3 222 07 01 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab – the first ever diamond lab to be ISO certified – has its ISO-accreditation renewed

  HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab – the first ever diamond lab to be ISO certified – has its ISO-accreditation renewed

  The renewal follows a comprehensive external audit of HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab. The successful audit resulted in an extension of its ISO certificate for another five years, starting February 12, 2010. Because grading labs have an obligation to the diamond industry and consumers to be independent, objective and consistent, HRD Antwerp - Diamond Lab has, since 1976, incorporated a set of procedures that guarantee the highest possible quality standards. In fact it was one of the first laboratories to have achieved such a status worldwide, and was the very first in Belgium and in the diamond grading community to do so. The lab currently operates according to the demanding standards of NBN EN ISO/ 17025. Since 1995, an annual external audit by a third party, appointed by the Ministry of Economy, verifies if the standards, as set by the International Diamond Council, the accreditation institute and the Diamond Lab itself, are being maintained. The audit team consists of experts in quality management and internationally recognised diamond experts. Their conclusions are binding. During the audit, the reputation of the Diamond Lab by BELAC was again confirmed.

• HRD Antwerp at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai

  HRD Antwerp at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai

  The Belgian EU Pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai, starting May 1, will shine even more brightly thanks to the Diamond Exhibition Corner, where diamonds will be used to represent Belgium. World Expo 2010 Shanghai will be the largest World Expo in history, with over 180 countries participating, 230 pavilions constructed and an estimated 70 million visitors. In the exhibition, HRD Antwerp recreates the amazing story of the Lesotho Promise – at 603 carats, the fifteenth largest stone ever found – which was auctioned in Antwerp for 12.4 million dollars. Antwerp’s finest researchers and craftsmen turned this precious stone into an amazing 26 diamonds of superior quality, ranging from 75 to 0.55 ct. The intriguing tale of the Lesotho Promise is not only a perfect example of Antwerp's long tradition of know-how and skills. It matches perfectly with another exciting exhibit organised by HRD Antwerp, illustrating the unique position of Antwerp as an innovator. It features state-of-the-art equipment and techniques based on scientific research performed at the WTOCD. The results of that work, such as the special cuts Antwerp Twins (3D diamonds), Blue Flame (Eurostar), Gassan 121 (Gassan), Flanders Cut (Flanders Collection), Cento (Rosy Blue), 8star (Muller) and Sphere Diamonds (R.D.H. Diamonds) can be admired in the Diamond Exhibition Corner. Antwerp, the trading center of the diamond world, is highlighted by a display of unique diamonds. Pluczenik, Safdico, Rosy Blue, Barsamian, Beladamas, RDH, Drybooms & Sons and Luc Vets will display exceptional polished diamonds, including diamonds ranging from 5ct to 100 ct and extraordinary diamonds for necklaces, worth over 2 million US$. Last but not least, for the first time ever, visitors will be able to buy diamonds at the Belgian Pavilion. For those who want to seize the opportunity, Jeweler Wolfers – Jeweler by appointment of the Court of Belgium – will immediately mount the diamond into a jewel accompanied by an HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report. Click here for more information and recent pictures and videos from the Expo.

• HRD Antwerp welcomes Chinese delegation from Shenzhen

  HRD Antwerp welcomes Chinese delegation from Shenzhen

  A large delegation of Chinese leaders of the Shenzhen diamond industry attended a tailor-made program organised by HRD Antwerp. Participants, ranging from sales people to top managers, were introduced to the sorting process of rough diamonds. In addition, the delegation had the opportunity to attend several networking events and visit Antwerp to see the diamond industry. Following the success of this event, a second visit is already planned for April 2010.

• Members of WFDB receive discount on HRD Antwerp Courses

  Members of WFDB receive discount on HRD Antwerp Courses

  Members of the 28 diamond exchanges affiliated with WFDB are now entitled to a discount on educational services offered by HRD Antwerp. WFDB-affiliated bourse members will receive a 15 percent discount on all HRD Antwerp courses in Belgium and worldwide. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Education at tel.: +32 3 222 07 01 or e-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab announces new fast-track services to Israel

  HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab announces new fast-track services to Israel

  Senior officials from HRD Antwerp and the Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE), as well as many IDE members, attended the launch on Thursday, February 18, of an expansion of the HRD Antwerp's Lab Link service to Israel at a special event at the exchange. HRD Antwerp General Manager Georges Brys announced that the shipping company, Ferrari International/D2D, had been selected to provide the service as of February 21. Attendees at the event were treated to a special talk by leading Israeli journalist Ron Ben Yishai, known to Israelis for 30 years as a reporter and commentator on defense and security issues in the Middle East. Ferrari/D2D will serve as official freight forwarder and logistics provider for the HRD Antwerp Lab Link service for Israeli clients, with full door-to-door secured services which will be under their full liability. With this partnership, HRD Antwerp introduced new rates for the Lab Link service. The cost is a fixed rate of 2 € per diamond + 0,11 percent of the declared value with a minimum of 75 €. HRD Antwerp launched the Lab Link service to Israel in July 2007 with the aim of providing the Israeli diamond centre with direct access to the HRD Diamond Lab, one of the world's most respected diamond grading organisations. In addition, HRD Antwerp launched its Fast Service in Israel, a service which already exists in Belgium. The fast service provides for diamonds to be collected on Sundays and Wednesdays from the offices of customers in Tel Aviv and returned with their certificates after grading in Antwerp three days later. Goods collected on Sundays will be returned the following Wednesday, while diamonds that are picked up on Wednesdays will be delivered with their certificates on the following Sunday. For this service clients only have to pay an additional fee of 30% on the examination fee and the costs of Diamond Office in Belgium. HRD Antwerp - Diamond Lab is one of the best-known diamond grading centres in the world and operates the Lab Link service to Mumbai, Dubai and Hong Kong, as well as India. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp 钻石实验室指定法拉利国际公司为以色列客户提供Lab Link服务

  HRD Antwerp 钻石实验室指定法拉利国际公司为以色列客户提供Lab Link服务

  HRD Antwerp——HRD钻石实验室已经指定法拉利国际公司作为其独家官方货运代理人和物流服务商，为以色列客户提供HRD钻石实验室服务。 据悉，HRD Antwerp—钻石实验室声明法拉利国际国内公司将提供全方位的上门放心服务。 该钻石实验室已于2007年7月份在以色列开展试验服务，旨在为以色列钻石中心的会员提供直接的进入HRD Antwerp—钻石实验室的通道。该钻石实验室乃是世界上最值得推崇的钻石鉴别机构。客户们可以将钻石送至位于以色列拉马丹的客户服务办公室，待Antwerp—钻石实验室鉴别完成后便会向客户发放鉴定证书。 据悉，HRD Antwerp—钻石实验室声明法拉利国际公司将致力于为客户提供最高效、最迅捷和最灵活的服务。 HRD Antwerp—钻石实验室在孟买、迪拜、香港以及印度都提供实验室服务。 法拉利国际公司作为全球值得信赖的运输公司，已经有五十过年的业务经验，在全球范围内提供高效专业的服务队伍网络，为钻石和珠宝行业产品提供承运服务。 法拉利国际公司在不断的扩大业务范围，除了标准、安全和有保障的上门送货服务以外，还意欲为全球 最有声望的珠宝和钻石企业提供物流服务，成为引领行业龙头的服务商。 更多服务信息，请联系HRD Antwerp –实验室:联系电话+32 3 222 06 25， 或者邮箱 diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• Third edition of Research scientific newsletter

  Third edition of Research scientific newsletter

  Third edition of Research scientific newsletter is available. The newsletter gives information on the activities and the services of HRD Antwerp Research and articles relating to new and important scientific developments related to diamonds.

  Scientific Diamond News Pitfalls in automatic diamond colour grading Automatic colour grading of diamonds is becoming increasingly important to the diamond business, due to its ability to save time and bypass the possibility of human error. However, systematic grading errors, due to the use of low-quality colour grading machines, have been reported. A recent issue of Antwerp Facets Online addresses this topical subject. Read more... Fluorescence Cage: a new way to identify HPHT treated diamonds? Recently, claims were made that a new method had been developed to identify HPHT treated diamonds. Its simplicity aroused a lot of interest. It was claimed that, under UV fluorescent lighting, the facet edges of some HPHT treated polished diamonds could be seen to light up, effectively creating a "cage" around the stone. HRD scientists found that this phenomenon was absent in a large number of HPHT treated reference stones, consistent with subsequent reports in the literature, where it was claimed that fluorescence cage luminescence is not characteristic of HPHT treated diamonds. Read more... "Nanocut" diamonds: increasing the fire Scientists at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have developed a new technique to increase the dispersion of colour (“fire”) seen in a diamond. Essentially, the method is based on plasma etching diffracton gratings on the facets of the stone. Parallel lines are etched, at distances of approximately 1 micrometer. This produces "rainbow" colours, similar to what is seen on the surface of a Compact Disc. Read more... CVD coated gem diamond The (apparent) colour of a diamond can be changed by coating the stone with a layer of a coloured substance. Usually the coating consists of a foreign material that can be removed easily, mechanically or chemically. However, recently HRD researchers have described a stone that had been coated with a blue layer of CVD synthetic diamond. This work was presented at the Hasselt Diamond Workshop 2010, SBDD XV, February 22-24, 2010, Hasselt, Belgium. Read more... Scientific Events Scientific conferences related to diamond and precious stones: 4th International Conference on New Diamond and Nano Carbons (NDNC 2010), May 16-20, 2010, Suzhou, China. Details: http://ndnc2010.0431cn.com 2nd International Workshop on Science and Applications of Nanoscale Diamond Materials, June 28 - July 2, 2010, Zakopane, Poland. Jointly with 5th Wide Bandgap Materials and 7th Diamond & Related Films International Conferences. Details: http://www.wbm.p.lodz.pl De Beers Diamond Conference, July 13-16, 2010, University of Warwick, UK (invitation only). Diamond 2010 - 21st European Conference on Diamond, Diamond-like Materials, Carbon Nanotubes and Nitrides, September 5 - 9, 2010, Budapest, Hungary. Details: http://www.diamond-conference.elsevier.com More information on scientific conferences related to diamond and precious stones can be found here. Mailing service For more information about our services, or to subscribe to our mailing, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Research Tel: +32 3 488 06 09 E-mail: research@hrdresearch.be Website: www.hrdantwerp.be

• Launch of the new WTOCD website

  Launch of the new WTOCD website

  The WTOCD website, www.wtocd.be, has been completely updated and redesigned. A clear distinction has been made between current research projects and the outcome of previous projects that led to ready-to-use solutions or services. Some projects are extensively documented, like the Hearts and Arrows project, while others have a non-disclosure status and are only described by an identity kit. A separate topic is reserved for the technological advice service, acting as an open window to the diamond community. The website will be updated on a regular basis with new articles and tools for the diamond industry and trade. For more information, please contact tel.: +32 3 488 06 09.

• HRD Awards receive HRD Antwerp Jewellery Reports

  HRD Awards receive HRD Antwerp Jewellery Reports

  The HRD Awards is an international competition for talented jewellery designers who stimulate the creativity of the contemporary diamond jewel. The competition aims at extending the limits of the modern diamond jewel, avant-garde ideas and exclusive creations are a must. Held every two years, the winning awards travel around the world. Since this year 2 of the awards are accompanied by an HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report. The HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report is a new service, which was launched earlier this year. The Jewellery Report provides an accurate description of the weight of the jewel and the precious metals used. The number of diamonds set in the jewel and their shape, carat, colour, clarity and cut are defined. Each report includes a high-quality colour photograph of the jewellery piece. The Report presents the same exclusive security features included in the full HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificate: a watermark, an embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. The report can be delivered in two variations: a compact report for smaller pieces up to 0.99 ct and a jewellery report for larger pieces. The reports for larger pieces have an additional detailed picture of the jewel. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp Diamond Jewellery Report extends service outside the EU

  HRD Antwerp Diamond Jewellery Report extends service outside the EU

  Antwerp, January 29, 2010 - HRD Antwerp is extending its Jewellery Report services to clients outside the European Union. As of today, the jewellery reports for diamond set jewels, will be a worldwide service. The HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report provides an accurate description of the weight of the jewel and the precious metals used. The number of diamonds set in the jewel, shape, carat, colour, clarity and cut are defined. Each report bears a high quality colour photograph of the jewellery piece. The Report presents the same exclusive security features included in the full HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificate: a watermark, an embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. The report can be delivered in two variations: a compact report for smaller pieces up to 0.99 ct and a jewellery report for larger pieces. The reports for larger pieces have an additional detailed picture of the jewel. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp certifies the ORRA Crown Star Cut

  HRD Antwerp certifies the ORRA Crown Star Cut

  The Diamond Destination part of Rosyblue, the world's renowned jewellery manufacturing company unveiled the ORRA Crown Star Belgium at the hands of his Royal Highness, Prince Filip of Belgium, Baron Dilip Mehta-CEO of Rosyblue and Mr.Vijay Jain-CEO of ORRA. A solitaire inspired by the 700 year old diamond legacy of Belgium, this is the first time it has been launched in India. The ORRA Crown Star is a 100 facet solitaire inspired by the 700 year old Belgian legacy of diamond crafting. Conceptualized and crafted in Belgium, these solitaires are sourced from our parent company, RosyBlue in Antwerp. While a traditional diamond has 57 facets, the ORRA Crown Star has almost double the number making it an innovation in the world of diamonds. These facets are aligned in perfect symmetry and proportion to provide maximum brilliance and scintillation. These solitaires are being certified by HRD Antwerp in Belgium.

• HRD Antwerp welcomes Nationwide Jewellers

  HRD Antwerp welcomes Nationwide Jewellers

  The products and services of HRD Antwerp are known worldwide. Each year, Nationwide Jewellers invites their clients to accompany them on a trip to see the diamond industry in Belgium and the offices of HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp launches a Valentine’s campaign to support jewellers

  HRD Antwerp launches a Valentine’s campaign to support jewellers

  From February 2 till February 14, HRD Antwerp ran a Valentine’s Day campaign in Antwerp. On the rear window of the city’s public buses we promoted diamond jewellery with the following message: "Surely you buy a diamond with an HRD Antwerp Certificate?!" As a diamantaire, you know the importance of trust between you and your customer. After all, your name is a seal of trustworthiness. The HRD Antwerp Certificates support this trust. Did you know that HRD Antwerp also issues Jewellery Reports? The HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report provides an accurate description of the diamonds in the jewel and the precious metals used. The number of diamonds set in the jewel and their shape, carat, colour, clarity and cut are defined. Each report includes a high quality colour photograph of the jewellery piece. The Jewellery Report is available in two variations: a compact report and a report for larger pieces. The reports present the same exclusive security features included in the full HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificate: a watermark, an embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. This makes the report a trustworthy aid when insuring the jewellery piece. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp Worldwide

  HRD Antwerp Worldwide

  Poland HRD Antwerp exhibited at the Amberif fair in Gdansk, Poland. At the fair, Mrs. Veerle Van Esbroeck presented a lecture entitled “Branding diamonds, brand new.” For several years, HRD Antwerp has had a cooperation agreement with the Polish Association of Jewellery Experts (SRJ), involving the provision of loupe courses, diamond grading courses and hands-on workshops. Poland is traditionally considered a market in which amber is the dominant gemstone, but as Polish consumers’ purchasing power has risen in recent years, sales of diamond jewellery have experienced cautious but steady growth. Basel HRD Antwerp took part in the Baselworld 2010 trade show where it presented its grading, gemmological, educational, technological and research services. HRD Antwerp displayed the wide range of services that it provides for the global diamond industry. The Baselworld fair, is one of the most important on the diamond, jewellery and watch manufacturers calendar. Visitors are given the opportunity to watch demonstrations of the D-screen, developed by HRD Antwerp. This screening device is able to detect stones that are potentially synthetic or may have had their colour improved by HPHT. In addition, extensive information is provided on HRD Antwerp's diamond certificates, its new Jewellery Report service, and Hearts & Arrows by HRD Antwerp. Launched last year, the HRD Antwerp’s Jewellery Report provides an accurate description of the weight of the jewel and the precious metals used. The number of diamonds set in the jewel, and their shape, carat, colour, clarity and cut are also stated. Each report includes a high quality colour photograph of the jewellery piece. The Report presents the same exclusive security features included in the full HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificate: a watermark, an embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. Hong Kong - HRD Antwerp certificates with sealed diamonds on display at Hong Kong International Show Amongst the 55 Antwerp diamond companies exhibiting at the March Hong Kong International Show, HRD Antwerp had a dedicated booth in the Antwerp Diamond Pavilion, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. During the show, HRD Antwerp offered visitors the opportunity to have their HRD Antwerp certified diamonds placed in a special safety seal. HRD Antwerp has been developing its sealing services in line with its ongoing efforts to continually provide new and improved services for clients. Sealing has become a widely requested option since it guarantees that the certificate and diamond to which it relates to go together, and keeps the gem safe from grease and dirt. HRD Antwerp designed the sealing process to hold the diamond while displaying its beauty. In addition, sealing is tamper-proof, and there are three safety mechanisms that ensure that once the package has been opened it cannot be resealed: disruptions to the wavy blue pattern on the surface of the package, the fracturing of the red electrostatic bars, and the display of the words ‘SAFETY SEAL ANNULLED’ and ‘VOID’. It is impossible to recreate the original seal once the package has been opened; the fractured red bars and the cryptoprint text cannot be undone, even by attempting to glue the parts back together. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp Launches Diamond Jewellery Reports

  HRD Antwerp Launches Diamond Jewellery Reports

  HRD Antwerp extends its certification services for its EU clients with a special Jewellery Report for diamond set jewels. The HRD Antwerp Jewellery Report provides an accurate description of the weight of the jewel and the precious metals used. The number of diamonds set in the jewel, shape, carat, colour, clarity and cut are defined. Each report bears a high quality colour photograph of the jewellery piece. The Report presents the same exclusive security features included in the full HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificate: a watermark, an embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. The report can be delivered in two variations: a compact report for smaller pieces up to 0.99 ct and a jewellery report for larger pieces. The reports for larger pieces have an additional detailed picture of the jewel. "By providing jewellery retailers with an independent, objective analysis of the jewel, we want to further support customer confidence, which is our first priority", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp. The first diamond jewellery report by HRD Antwerp was offered to Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping, during his visit to HRD Antwerp’s Diamond Lab and Antwerp World Diamond Centre on October 9th. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• HRD Antwerp launches one-day fast-track certificate service in Belgium

  HRD Antwerp launches one-day fast-track certificate service in Belgium

  HRD Antwerp is extending its diamond certification services with a special fast-track route in Belgium for diamonds which require urgent processing. Starting October 1st, diamonds delivered before 10.00 am at the HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab will be returned certified the same day, after 4 pm. This special service is offered at a 30% additional fee. "Providing this service, allows diamond dealers to speed up business transactions," said Georges Brys, General Manager HRD Antwerp. "The new service addresses requests from the diamond industry to immediately be able to supply a diamond with its corresponding certificate." The number of diamonds that can be processed daily is limited, so the service will be operated on a "first come, first serve" basis. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp at tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 or e-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be.

• Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping visits HRD Antwerp

  Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping visits HRD Antwerp

  HRD Antwerp welcomed Vice-President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China. H.E. Jinping was welcomed by H.R.H. Prince Philip of Belgium, Minister of Economy and Enterprise Vincent Van Quickenborne and the Board of Directors of Antwerp World Diamond Centre and HRD Antwerp. H.E. Jinping visited the AWDC Diamond Office, the inspection office for Belgian diamond imports and exports, before heading to the HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab, one of the major diamond labs worldwide which issues grading reports for polished diamonds. The delegation was granted a special tour through the HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab and introduced to the high technological equipment used in the laboratory like the Lumisense, an innovative diamond colour grading instrument and our unique Hearts and Arrows software. Samples of our advanced laser technology and security features in our certificates were also explained. At the end of the visit, as symbol of friendship between China and Belgium, H.E. Jinping was presented a two carat diamond with laser inscribed Chinese flag on the table. The diamond is an HRD Antwerp certified "Blue Flame", a new Antwerp designed diamond cut for Tesiro and launched in Antwerp in January 2009. In addition, HRD Antwerp was honoured to offer its very first HRD Antwerp jewellery reports, with two exceptional diamond jewellery pieces. A China-flag pin, incrusted with 5 diamonds estimated at a total of 3.05 ct, representing the 5 stars of the Chinese flag, and 60 rubies symbolising the 60th anniversary of the PR of China, was offered to H.E. Jinping. Secondly, a gold necklace featuring a solitaire 1ct brilliant cut diamond, was offered to H.R.H. Prince Philip of Belgium.

• HRD Antwerp partners with new quality label European Quality Circle

  HRD Antwerp partners with new quality label European Quality Circle

  HRD Antwerp has reached a partnership agreement with the quality label EQC (European Quality Circle), according to which HRD Antwerp will provide the organisation with its expertise and quality services. HRD Antwerp will become the preferred partner in supplying diamonds certificates and jewellery reports to the association. In addition, HRD Antwerp will share its gemmological knowledge and training services with EQC’s members, mostly European jewellers. As preferred partner, HRD Antwerp will provide the EQC-jewellers with personalised HRD Antwerp diamond certificates. "The aim of this partnership, is to better inform the diamond jewellery consumer. As HRD Antwerp, it is our main goal to promote Antwerp as the centre of excellence. Objectivity, reliability and quality are the basis for consumer confidence", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp sponsor of Miss Diamond contest 2009

  HRD Antwerp sponsor of Miss Diamond contest 2009

  HRD Antwerp was honoured to support the 28th edition of the Miss Diamond contest, which took place in the prestigious Antwerp Hilton Hotel on November 21st. Among the 14 finalist ladies, the lucky winner Goele Govaerts, was awarded an exclusive diamond jewellery, offered and certified by HRD Antwerp, which presented its brand-new HRD Antwerp diamond jewellery report to a diamond-loving audience. To enhance their natural beauty, the participants were offered the chance to gracefully show a selection of the exclusive HRD Awards jewellery collection, featuring diamond jewellery pieces created by young international designers during the 2009 edition of the contest "Once Upon a time, my favourite fairy tale".

• HRD Antwerp partners with luxury jeweler VIP Trading Ltd – Derain

  HRD Antwerp partners with luxury jeweler VIP Trading Ltd – Derain

  HRD Antwerp has signed a cooperative agreement with the Belgian headquartered VIP Trading Ltd – Derain, according to which HRD Antwerp will provide the jewellery chain with co-branded HRD Antwerp Diamond Certificates. In return, VIP Trading Ltd – Derain will promote actively the HRD Antwerp certificates in its shops. VIP Trading Ltd – Derain currently operates more than 50 high end luxury jewellery shops in Belgium, China and Macau and is known for its Belgian designed diamond jewellery. VIP Trading Ltd – Derain is a subsidiary of Wolfers, a Belgian jeweller with almost 200 years of history and being jeweller to his Belgian Majesty. To strengthen the bond with and knowledge of Belgian cut diamonds and the Antwerp quality grading system, the retail managers of the group received an intensive workshop training by HRD Antwerp. "With this agreement, HRD Antwerp not only supports a jewellery house with its knowledge in diamond certification and high standards of quality, but also tightens the relationship between Antwerp, world diamond centre, and Asia. For HRD Antwerp, this partnerships means a strong commercial backup of its certificate", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp holds a Diamond Certification Seminar in Singapore

  HRD Antwerp holds a Diamond Certification Seminar in Singapore

  On Saturday November 7th , HRD Antwerp and the Far East Gemmological Institute will hold a Diamond Certification Seminar at the Singapore Management University (SMU). Mr. Vansteelant (teacher at the educational department of HRD Antwerp) will lecture about the importance of certification and HRD Antwerp. Furthermore, he will present detailed information on synthetic and treated diamonds. For more information, please contact: HRD Antwerp – Education Tel: +32 3 222 07 01 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be Or click here for more details.

• HRD Antwerp is now certifying the diamond cut, the "Antwerp Twins"

  HRD Antwerp is now certifying the diamond cut, the "Antwerp Twins"

  The certification standards were set up in collaboration with WTOCD, the research and scientific arm of HRD Antwerp. For buyers this means that an Antwerp Twins diamond they are buying will have its own dedicated certificate, rather than a comment on a certificate. The new cut gained its name from its two faceted domes on the crown and pavilion side. All diamonds classified as Antwerp Twins share one feature in common: a fully faceted dome-shaped crown, with either no table at all or only a tiny 'culet'-style facet in the centre of the crown. The new cut-design for stones in different shapes creates a sparkling design with no compromise on light output. Antwerp based 3D Diamonds introduced the new cut. Eva Van Looveren, CEO of 3D Diamonds, revealed that the cut is based on a personal story. "When I was pregnant, I discovered to be expecting twins. Then, I hit upon the idea to create a special diamond for my twins. Twins catch more attention and the diamond had to do the same. This was the concept: a double sparkling, infinite binary 'living' diamond." For more information, please contact: HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab Tel: +32 3 222 06 25 E-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp Warns the Industry of Pitfalls in Automatic Diamond Colour Grading

  HRD Antwerp Warns the Industry of Pitfalls in Automatic Diamond Colour Grading

  Automatic colour grading of diamonds is becoming increasingly important. However, systematic grading errors, due to the use of low quality colour grading machines, have been reported. On the other hand, more sophisticated instruments, such as HRD Antwerp's Lumisense, yield consistently reliable results. To read the full article written by HRD Antwerp – Research and WTOCD (Scientific and Technical Research Center for Diamonds), click here.

• Attend HRD Antwerp courses in 2010

  Attend HRD Antwerp courses in 2010

  Interested in learning more about diamonds/gemmology or want to refresh your knowledge? The HRD Antwerp 2010 course schedule is available. For details, click here. For more information, please contact HRD Antwerp – Education, at +tel: 32 (0)3 222 07 09 or e-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp awards prize to winner of "Jewellery Competition for Schools"

  HRD Antwerp awards prize to winner of "Jewellery Competition for Schools"

  For the 8th time the award ceremony for the "Jewellery Competition for Schools" was held in Antwerp. The aim of the competition is to stimulate students to choose for a creative career and offer them job opportunities. The competition is a joint initiative and receives support from the City of Antwerp, Antwerp World Diamond Centre, HRD Antwerp and the city of Kortrijk. The selected jewellery pieces were put on display in numerous cities as well as the Antwerp Diamond Museum. Participants were asked to create a jewellery piece around the theme “illusion”. DIRK BEKAERT (SCVO Nijverheidsschool Antwerpen) won the design price with his jewellery piece named– ‘Ceci n’est pas une cérise’. EVA VAN AGTMAAL (TNA Antwerpen) called her piece ‘Bienvenidos a mi mundo’ and won the price for craftsmanship. The last prize chosen by the public was won by SIGGI SHARMA (SCVO Nijverheidsschool Antwerpen) with her piece of 'Midsummer night dreams'. Ms. Sharma was awarded with a Certified Diamond Grader course by HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp conducts diamond grading courses in Beijing

  HRD Antwerp conducts diamond grading courses in Beijing

  HRD Antwerp successfully held its first Certified Diamond Grader course in Beijing. HRD Antwerp joined hands with the China University of Geosciences Beijing (DIDA). During the course, students were taught to identify and grade diamonds by using a loupe and microscope. Students were also introduced to the use of treatments and synthetic diamonds.

• HRD Antwerp trains staff of Tesiro

  HRD Antwerp trains staff of Tesiro

  HRD Antwerp has joined hands with Tesiro, a high quality jeweler, to train their personnel. Staff will be introduced to the Antwerp Heritage, the HRD Antwerp certification and updated on synthetic diamonds and the latest technology. Interested in training your staff? Contact: HRD Antwerp – Education at tel: +32 (0)3 222 07 09.

• HRD Antwerp Explains the Characteristics of Diamonds to the Consumer Market

  HRD Antwerp Explains the Characteristics of Diamonds to the Consumer Market

  With the introduction of the Internet, consumers can access a wide array of information faster than before. With over 150,000 articles on the Internet alone, it is a hard task to filter the information and distinguish the rights from the wrongs. For this reason, HRD Antwerp has developed a consumer friendly booklet called "Master Diamonds", which explains the characteristics of diamonds by comparing them to well known facts.

• HRD Antwerp Welcomes Nationwide Jewellers

  HRD Antwerp Welcomes Nationwide Jewellers

  The products and services of HRD Antwerp are known worldwide. Every year the Nationwide Jewellers invites their clients to accompany them on a trip to the diamond industry in Belgium and the offices of HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp welcomes MODEBUTIKERNA

  HRD Antwerp welcomes MODEBUTIKERNA

  MODEBUTIKERNA, a Swedish association representing independent retailers in fashion, visited the HRD Antwerp offices. They were introduced to the Antwerp diamond heritage and the products of HRD Antwerp. In addition they were informed about the world renown HRD Awards, a unique jewellery award show where participants from around the world strive to create the most innovative jewellery piece.

• HRD Antwerp worldwide

  HRD Antwerp worldwide

  HRD Antwerp at the Hong Kong Fair HRD Antwerp joined the largest Belgian Pavilion in history at the Hong Kong September Fair. The Hong Kong Fair is now the world largest trade fair of its kind and to facilitate our customers, HRD Antwerp has offered an on-site sealing service for those who have a HRD Antwerp Certified diamonds. The sealing service was a great success and has been positively received by our customers. To keep the public informed, Dr. Katrien De Corte had given an insight on diamonds through her seminar "Diamond Science at your service". And with the "Antwerp Twins" special cut diamond showcased at our booth, HRD Antwerp has shown an example of creating a customized certificate for diamonds with special cuts. HRD Antwerp at Turkey Fair HRD Antwerp was present at the bi-annual Istanbul Jewelry Show held in the Expo Center. This fair is the biggest fair in Turkey and specialised for the trade only. During this trade fair we took the opportunity to introduce the following new courses for the Turkish market: Sales Course, Design Course and Diamond Grading Courses. For more information contact our local representative Mehmet-Can Özdemir, at tel: +90 (212) 512 42 46, or e-mail: mehmetcanozdemir@hrdantwerp.net

• HRD Antwerp in China: New address

  HRD Antwerp in China: New address

  Our office in Shanghai has moved to a new location. New contact details are: HRD Antwerp (Shanghai Office) Room A805B, Block 1 China Diamond Trading Center No.1701 Century Boulevard, Pudong New Area 200120 Shanghai Tel: +86 21 5098-8966 Fax: +86 21 5098-8967 E-mail: jun.jiang@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp在2009年8月3日对其产品和服务的价格进行调整

  HRD Antwerp在2009年8月3日对其产品和服务的价格进行调整

  2009年8月3日，HRD Antwerp将对钻石实验室的部分收费项目进行调整：其中包括钻石分级证书；钻石分级报告；跟踪鉴定；可选择性服务和初级鉴定。 关于最新的价格及服务请您访问链接。 关于更新信息，请您联系： HRD Antwerp – Diamond Lab Tel: +32 3 222 06 25 Fax: +32 3 222 06 30 E-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp partners with Ciribelli

  HRD Antwerp partners with Ciribelli

  HRD Antwerp NV has signed a cooperative agreement with the Monte-Carlo-headquartered Ciribelli company, according to which HRD Antwerp will provide the jewellery chain with customised HRD Antwerp diamond certificates. In return, Ciribelli will promote actively the HRD Antwerp certificate in its boutiques. The Ciribelli group operates five top luxury jewellery and watch stores in Monaco and is known for its goldsmiths' know-how and watch making engineering. "With this agreement, HRD Antwerp not only supports a renown jewellery house with its knowledge in diamond certification and high standards of quality, but also tightens the relationship between Antwerp, world diamond centre, and Monaco, jewellery distribution centre. For HRD Antwerp, this partnerships means a strong commercial backup of its certificate", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp.

• HRD Antwerp 的 D-Screen在世界的钻石交易所中被广泛应用

  HRD Antwerp 的 D-Screen在世界的钻石交易所中被广泛应用

  由于上星期南非钻石交易者俱乐部发布了伪造证书警告，HRD Antwerp特此通知钻石行业HRD Antwerp的D-Screen已经被送到世界各地的钻石交易所之中。D-Screen是一台专门检测处理钻石和合成钻石的精密小巧的仪器，现在钻石交易商可以在钻石交易大厅使用它检测钻石了。 D-Screen是世界上第一台精密小巧，便于携带的钻石检测仪，它能区分出天然钻石与合成无色钻石和近无色钻石。 D-Screen可以指示出天然的颜色未经处理的成品钻石。同时，合成钻石以及HPHT处理过的钻石也会被即刻检测出来。D-Screen的原理是对透过钻石的短波紫外线进行检测。 D-Screen可以检测颜色从D到J，重量在0.2ct到10ct的所有的钻石。这几乎涵盖了绝大多数的宝石级钻石。 如需更多D-Screen的信息，请您联系: HRD Antwerp Hoveniersstraat 22 2018 Antwerp Belgium 电话: +32 3 222 05 55 传真: +32 3 222 05 59 相关网址: equipment@hrdantwerp.be

• Winner awarded with an HRD Antwerp diamond

  Winner awarded with an HRD Antwerp diamond

  The link between India, Belgium and diamonds was yet again highlighted at a reception organised by Jet Airways, Brussels Airport and HRD Antwerp on Tuesday May 19th. The joint initiative follows a competition organised by Jet Airways, whereby customers could win numerous prizes including a unique Hearts & Arrows diamond offered by HRD Antwerp, two tickets from Jet Airways and 100 shopping vouchers provided by Brussels Airport. "We attach great importance to reaching out to the end consumer and informing them of the unique link between India and Belgium. India, one of the major destinations of Jet Airways, is also a key trade partner and prime destination for both rough and polished diamond exports from Antwerp", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp. We would like to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Heiden with the winning of the diamond and Mr. and Mrs. De Vadder with their two free tickets. For more information please contact: Jet Airways E-mail: mmeere@jetairways.com

• Sarin 和 Ogi执行HRD Antwerp 精确切工分级标准

  Sarin 和 Ogi执行HRD Antwerp 精确切工分级标准

  在2009年初，HRD Antwerp 发布了带有精确切工分级标准的新证书。精确切工包含了一系列钻石比例的参数，从比例、抛光和对称性对钻石切工进行全方位的描述。同时精确切工分级标准还首次使用了“Excellent”作为评级结果。 如您想了解有关精确切工分级标准的请您点击click here. 为了配合HRD新的钻石切工分级标准在钻石业内的使用，SARIN 和 OGI已经在他们的钻石切工比例仪的软件中执行了HRD精确切工分级标准。

• Attend HRD Antwerp courses in Singapore

  Attend HRD Antwerp courses in Singapore

  HRD Antwerp has teamed up with the Far East Gemmological Laboratory in Singapore, a leading player in the market of diamonds and gemstones. Students can register for the following HRD Antwerp courses, which will take place in August: Introduction to Diamond Grading (17-21 August) Diamond Workshop (24-25 August) VIP Diamond Seminar (26 August) Click here for more details. For more information please contact HRD Antwerp - Education Tel.: +32 3 222 07 01 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp offers its services to private individuals

  HRD Antwerp offers its services to private individuals

  From June 2009 onwards, HRD Antwerp extends its services to private individuals. Individuals will be able to receive a Diamond Certificate, a Diamond Colour Certificate or a Gemstone Report. Each individual can issue maximum 5 diamonds at one time. The HRD Antwerp graders will conduct exactly the same standard examinations (carat, colour, clarity and cut). Certificates are issued on the same secure certificate paper and can be checked through our website (www.hrdantwerp.be). For more information about this service, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Diamond Lab Tel.: +32 3 222 06 25 Fax: +32 3 222 06 30 E-mail: diamondlab@hrdantwerp.be

• Second edition of Research scientific newsletter

  Second edition of Research scientific newsletter

  The second edition of the HRD Antwerp - Research scientific newsletter is available. The newsletter gives information on the activities and the services of HRD Antwerp Research and articles relating to new and important scientific developments related to diamonds.

  Scientific Diamond News CVD synthetic diamond developments Several recent reports in the media and publications in various scientific journals highlight the development of CVD synthetic diamond. Significant advances have been made. Read more... Treated pink diamonds return to the front page Pink diamonds are back in the spotlights. A number of reports on treated pink diamond have emerged recently. Read more... Fancy colour coatings on the market For several centuries, coatings have been used to change the apparent colour of diamonds and other gemstones. Recently, however, stones have appeared on the market with more sophisticated coatings. Read more... Scientific Events Scientific conferences related to diamond and precious stones: The 3rd International Conference on New Diamond and Nano Carbon (NDNC-2009), Transverse City, Michigan, USA, June 7-11, 2009. Details: http://www.mrs.org/ndnc2009 Carbon '09, Biarritz, France, 14-19 June 2009. Details: http://www.carbon2009.org ICMAT 2009 - International Conference on Materials for Advanced Technologies, 28th June - 3rd July 2009, Suntec Centre, Singapore. Details: http://www.mrs.org.sg More information on scientific conferences related to diamond and precious stones can be found here. Mailing service For more information about our services, or to subscribe to our mailing, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Research Tel: +32 3 488 06 09 E-mail: research@hrdresearch.be Website: www.hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp launches its website in 4 languages

  HRD Antwerp launches its website in 4 languages

  HRD Antwerp which provides grading, gemmological, educational, technological and research services to the international diamond and jewellery industries, has launched its new website. Amongst different features, the site has been redesigned to meet consumer's demand and facilitate access to HRD Antwerp's services, and most of all its certification services. The site's facelift includes strong graphics and a dynamic presentation of the new HRD Antwerp certificate, issued since January 5th. The site encloses animation tools explaining in maximum 3 clicks the exclusive security features included in the certificate. With the aid of a virtual loupe, the visitor can explore its line structures, watermark, embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. To demonstrate its transparent grading system, HRD Antwerp displays detailed information about its refined cut grade and hearts & arrows measuring system. Also built-in is the HRD Antwerp Link service, the online application which enables clients to check their certificates data online. HRD Antwerp diamond certificates, diamond colour certificates and diamond identification reports for smaller stones, can be retrieved online, 24 hours a day, by simply connecting directly to the HRD Antwerp database, where certificates are kept for a period of 10 years. Each document can be retrieved in English, Turkish, Mandarin, Cantonese and Arabic. "The launch of the new site coincides with the revamping of the HRD Antwerp certificate. As consumers are gaining awareness of the importance of a diamond certificate, the online presentation of a product is essential. We wanted to create a clear, flexible and user-friendly interaction with our consumer", states Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp. For more information regarding our products and services contact: Tel.: +32 3 222 06 11 E-mail: info@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp offers a new course: Cut Designing and Analysis

  HRD Antwerp offers a new course: Cut Designing and Analysis

  HRD Antwerp and Lexus, the Surat-based expert in diamond processing machinery manufacturing and technology development, have developed a special joint training programme to assist diamond cutters and designers in creating their own unique diamond cuts. As the diamond manufacturer's margins have eroded substantially in the last decade, the diamond industry needs to sharpen their skill with more creativity to optimise profit margins. The aim of the training programme is to help designers to differentiate their diamond from the diamonds available next door and to understand the process of designing and performance optimizing. Also the necessary skill of understanding the light performance will be imparted. The 'Cut Designing & Analysis' course will be given in Antwerp, from June 22-26, 2009, and includes the following topics: understanding the optical properties of diamond, understanding the process flow of designing a new cut, understanding Cut Designer in Diamond Calculator, Generation of XML and ASC file, understanding HDR and ETAS, viewing the polish under various structured lighting, designing standard popular cuts, designing special cuts and optimizing them for performance, preparing ASC file for allocation in rough diamonds, report printing and manufacturing guidelines. For more information and enrolment, click here or contact: HRD Antwerp - Education Tel.: +32 3 222 07 09 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp has launched a new portable microscope

  HRD Antwerp has launched a new portable microscope

  HRD Antwerp has a long experience in investigating and grading diamonds. Since the successful introduction of the D-scope in 2001 there has been an increasing demand of creating a compact microscope. Just recently HRD Antwerp has launched the brother of its D-Scope microscope, the "D-Scope DV4". This new microscope is a portable and compact and especially designed for the jewellery market. D-Scope DV4 has a high quality stereo zoom microscope with gem manipulator and vacuum system identical/similar to the original D-scope. It is equipped with a sophisticated illumination system that consists of unique halogen dark field lighting and LED-top lights for quick examination possibilities. For more information on this or our other products, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Equipment Tel.: +32 3 222 05 55 Fax: +32 3 222 05 59 E-mail: equipment@hrdantwerp.be

• Check your HRD Antwerp Certificates on Idex Online

  Check your HRD Antwerp Certificates on Idex Online

  IDEX Online, the leading online diamond trading platform, is offering additional service for its members. IDEX Online members can see the complete details of the HRD Antwerp Certificates on their screen when buying and/or selling diamonds through the IDEX Online trading platform (www.idexonline.com). HRD Antwerp has teamed up with IDEX Online to provide a link to the HRD Antwerp certificate database, another way to provide you with better service!

• HRD Antwerp certificates picked to empower popular Chinese Internet brand

  HRD Antwerp certificates picked to empower popular Chinese Internet brand

  Zbird.com, one of China's most important online retailers of diamond jewellery, has formed a partnership with HRD Antwerp. This agreement has been reached thanks to the efforts of the HRD Antwerp representative office that opened in 2008 in the Diamond Exchange of Shanghai. Zbird.com will promote and sell diamond jewellery with grading reports supplied by the Antwerp diamond lab. Zbird will also promote the HRD Antwerp certificate on its website and through its shops in the most important Chinese cities. "This strategic cooperation between HRD Antwerp and Zbird will provide Zbird's customers with diamond set jewellery that have been certified by one of the world�s most respected grading labs. The certificates will display the brand logos of both HRD Antwerp and Zbird", explained Georges Brys, General Manager of HRD Antwerp. The agreement between Zbird and HRD Antwerp was inaugurated at a celebration held at the Belgian Consulate in Shanghai in the presence of the Consul General of Belgium, Mr. Marc Pecsteen. HRD Antwerp is the first international diamond grading lab providing Chinese customers with a website in Chinese (www.hrdantwerp.be). For more information about our office in China, please contact: Ms. Jun Jiang Tel.: + 86 21 5098 89 66 E-mail: jun.jiang@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp initiates exclusive partnership in Hong Kong Institute

  HRD Antwerp initiates exclusive partnership in Hong Kong Institute

  HRD Antwerp will soon launch new diamond grading courses in Hong Kong, in close cooperation with the Hong Kong Institute of Gemmology. In line with the HRD Antwerp standards of excellence, two intensive programmes will be conducted by an experienced HRD Antwerp instructor: the Certified Diamond Grader course and the 'Diamond Rough Sorting Basic' course. The first includes training in the principles of diamond optics, grading, identification and imitation detection. Students will be given extensive hands-on experience with a microscope and a loupe to help make them expert diamond graders. The latter teaches students the basic methods to sort diamonds in the various categories. Georges Brys, CEO of HRD Antwerp, said "It gives me great pleasure to see HRD Antwerp's education programmes being linked to the respected Hong Kong Institute of Gemmology. Both our organisations will benefit from this mutual cooperation." For more information about our Educational Department, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Education Tel.: +32 3 222 07 01 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp developing customised diamond courses in Spain with GEMACYT - Laboratorio Gemologico

  HRD Antwerp developing customised diamond courses in Spain with GEMACYT - Laboratorio Gemologico

  HRD Antwerp has concluded a cooperative agreement with Madrid-headquartered GEMACYT - Laboratorio Gemologico, according to which HRD Antwerp and Gemacyt will develop diamond educational programmes for the Spanish market. The courses will be customised for jewellery retailers in Spain, according to each firm's specific requirements. The courses that will be offered in Spain by HRD Antwerp and GEMACYT will be spread out over one, two or three days. They will be designed to raise the level of diamond-related knowledge and expertise of a jewellery retailer's staff, so as to improve the level of service that the retailers provide their own clients. This will enhance both consumer confidence and loyalty. The courses will be conducted on the companies' premises. Alternatively, they can be provided at GEMACYT during the week-end. Participants will develop their skills using polished diamonds, diamond imitations and treated diamonds. Equipment will include 10 X loupes, gemmological microscopes and other technology developed by HRD Antwerp. Graduates of the courses will receive diplomas issued jointly by HRD Antwerp and GEMACYT, attesting to their participation. They also will be eligible for a day of hands-on instruction at the GEMACYT laboratory. For more information about our Educational Department, please contact: HRD Antwerp - Education Tel.: +32 3 222 07 01 E-mail: education@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp and Tanisq join hands to promote the Diamond Purity Check Week

  HRD Antwerp and Tanisq join hands to promote the Diamond Purity Check Week

  Graders from HRD Antwerp will evaluate diamond jewellery during the "Diamond Purity Check Week" which runs from May until June in major cities in India. Tanisq, a prominent retailer in India, with over 100 retail outlets initiated this event where customers can receive a free evaluation of their diamond jewellery. The evaluation covers colour, clarity and cut. "Consumer confidence is our first priority and HRD Antwerp is happy to assist the jewellery industry by sharing its knowledge", said Devika Gidwani, who heads the HRD Antwerp operation in India. For more information about our presence in India, please contact: Ms. Devika Gidwani Tel.: +91 9820291492 E-mail: devika.gidwani@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp hosted an educational update with GemEx

  HRD Antwerp hosted an educational update with GemEx

  On April 22nd, Mr. Randall Wagner from GemEx informed the industry with a session called "Ion Engraving, Nano-Technology meets Diamond World." Ion engraving is a technology which enables to engrave on the surface of a diamond. In 1999, De Beers launched a diamond program called the Millennium diamond; featuring diamonds with an invisible engraving on the table. The millennium diamond program evolved into the marketing program called the ForeverMark diamond which also uses a similar invisible mark on the table. GemEx obtained the patent to use Focused Ion Beam technology for engraving diamonds, which is crossed, licensed with the DeBeers patent. GemEx has also developed proprietary viewer technology that allows an individual to view the mark without any complicated electronic technology. The viewer technology makes the engraving appear holographic and thus is called the Holographic Diamond Viewer and is available in an in-store unit and a take home version. This mark has been verified by HRD Antwerp to have no effect on the grading of the stone, as is the case with the ForeverMark. The engraving is nearly impossible to see with a loupe. This technology can be used for branding, personalizing and even for covertly marking diamonds. It is possible to engrave a mark so small it can only be seen with an electron microscope. GemEx explained the technology, showing examples, and discussing applications and uses to expand and enhance diamond sales for the Antwerp market. Participants were able to examine engraved diamonds and use the latest Holographic Diamond Viewer.

• HRD Antwerp inaugurates its classroom in Istanbul

  HRD Antwerp inaugurates its classroom in Istanbul

  HRD Antwerp, the commercial arm of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, has inaugurated its new classroom in Turkey. "As our diamond certificates and gemmological grading and educational services have a strong reputation on the Turkish market, we felt it was imperative to provide custom-tailored services to one of the world's fastest growing consumer markets," General Manager Georges Brys said. HRD Antwerp appointed Mr. Mehmet Can Ozdemir as its local representative for its Turkish office. Mr. Ozdemir will be responsible for promoting the HRD Antwerp brand and will primarily focus on representing its commercial interests in Turkey in the fields of education, diamond certification and equipment. HRD Antwerp's expansion beyond the Belgian diamond centre follows the launch of HRD Lab Link, a pick-up diamond certification service in Israel, Hong Kong, Mumbai and Dubai. For more information about our representation in Turkey, please contact: Mr. Ozdemir Mollafenari mah. Nuruosmaniye cad. Erdem is hani no. 46 kat.3 Istanbul, Turkey Tel.: +90 212 512 42 46 E-mail: Mehmet-can.ozdemir@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp's diamond road show sparkles in China

  HRD Antwerp's diamond road show sparkles in China

  HRD Antwerp kicked off a 'Diamond road show' in Beijing on January 17. This promotional tour is a joint effort with Caibai, China's number one jewellery plaza. The 'Diamond road show' featured the famous ECC Diamond Trophy, also called the ECC Racket of the Antwerp Diamonds Cup, set with 1600 top quality Antwerp cut brilliants. With a total weight of 150 carats and 13,23 pounds of fine gold, it is valued at 1 million Euros and has been offered to the Antwerp Diamonds Cup tennis champion since 1985. After Beijing, 19 other cities will successively host the trophy. By the end of 2009, millions of Chinese consumers will have been able to experience the luxury of diamonds, brought to life by this brilliant masterpiece. HRD Antwerp's relationship with China started more than 10 years ago. Throughout the past decade, HRD Antwerp has been training many people in China�s diamond industry, many of whom now hold top positions in the sector. In November 2007, HRD Antwerp expanded its operations with the opening of a representative office in Shanghai. Since then, diamond certificates, gemmological grading and educational services have been provided extensively to the Chinese market. "China's consumer base is growing, and along with it, the market for luxury goods. It is clear that for diamonds, now and in the years to come, China is the place to be", explains Georges Brys, General Manger of HRD Antwerp. For more information about our office in China, please contact: Ms. Jun Jiang Tel.: + 86 21 5098 89 66 E-mail: jun.jiang@hrdantwerp.be

• HRD Antwerp held it first Sales Course in China

  HRD Antwerp held it first Sales Course in China

  HRD Antwerp's newly introduced training programme for jewellery retailer sales staff was held with success in Beijing and Shanghai. HRD Antwerp trained more than 200 employees from major players in the jewellery market, Rainring and Kimberlite. The course is designed to equip the sales people of all levels with knowledge about diamonds and provides them with the tools to explain and demonstrate (using a loupe) the different quality grades of diamonds to their customers. Furthermore, employees were informed about diamond and jewellery trends in Europe. For more information about our office in China, please contact: Ms. Jun Jiang Tel.: + 86 21 5098 89 66 E-mail: jun.jiang@hrdantwerp.be

• Antwerp's Blue Flame diamond on the red carpet

  Antwerp's Blue Flame diamond on the red carpet

  A new diamond cut produced in Antwerp was unveiled. Called the "Blue Flame," the 89-facet diamond drew the attention of the paparazzi at one of Europe's most prestigious film festivals. Created by Eurostar Diamond Traders, the Blue Flame diamond cut was revealed during an exclusive preview event held at the Rubens House in Antwerp. There, in the former residence of the Renaissance master painter, Peter Paul Rubens, himself a collector of diamonds, guests were treated to a fashion show featuring jewellery set with the Blue Flame cut. The jewellery was all designed for Tesiro, which is a joint venture of Eurostar and the Chinese Tongling Group that operates more than 150 shops in China and plans to open 300 more over the next three to five year. Tesiro was also a sponsor of the Berlin Film Festival, which opened in the German capital on February 5th. It is there that the Blue Flame jewels were worn on the red carpet by a star-studded cast that included Nicole Kidman, Catherine Zeta Jones and Kate Winslet. "The Blue Flame diamond cut was designed by an Antwerp cutter, Bernard Van Pul," explained Freddy J. Hanard, CEO of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC). "Our city's centuries-long tradition of craftsmanship and the "Cut in Antwerp" label command worldwide respect. We are delighted that so important a Chinese jewellery manufacturer has developed a jewellery line with an Antwerp producer. Exports of rough diamonds from Antwerp to China have grown by 15 percent annually since 2002, both in value and in carat weight, and imports of polished from China and exports of polished to China have grown steadily as well." Every Blue Flame cut diamond is accompanied by a diamond grading report issued by HRD Antwerp. "This is an excellent opportunity to introduce our new and improved HRD Antwerp certificate to a Chinese audience," said Georges Brys, HRD Antwerp's General Manager. "Today more than ever consumer confidence is critical. The choice of the HRD Antwerp certificate is acknowledgement of the growing recognition we enjoy in the Asian markets."

• HRD Antwerp offers its Contemporary Diamond Jewellery Design Course in Lebanon

  HRD Antwerp offers its Contemporary Diamond Jewellery Design Course in Lebanon

  HRD Antwerp offered for the first time in Lebanon its latest training programme, contemporary diamond jewellery design. The five-day course is developed to equip students with the skills necessary for transferring creative ideas into practical concepts on paper, trainees are also instructed in the fundamentals of diamonds in modern jewellery design and the aesthetics of the presentation on paper. The blue-ribbon lecturer presenting the course includes Laurent-Max De Cock, Associate Professor at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. For more information about our courses in the Middle East, please contact: Ms. Chantal Abboud Tel.: +961 (1) 33 48 79 E-mail: chantal.abboud@hrdantwerp.be

• Trinny and Susannah shine in Antwerp

  Trinny and Susannah shine in Antwerp

  On May 6th the two British style gurus, Trinny and Susannah came to Antwerp, Belgium to share their fashion knowledge with the Belgian public. In a token of appreciation, the two style gurus were each presented with a diamond offered by Nordic Fire (specialist in Canadian diamonds polished in Belgium) with an HRD Antwerp certificate.

• HRD Antwerp at trade shows

  HRD Antwerp at trade shows

  Shanghai 2009 HRD Antwerp participated at the Jewellery Shanghai trade show which opened on May 13 and ran through May 16. "This is the fourth time that HRD Antwerp participated in this show, and that alone underscores the tremendous potential we see in the Shanghai diamond market," said Georges Brys, general manager of HRD Antwerp. "Not only is the city the site of China's only diamond exchange, but Shanghai's jewellery retail sector represents about 20 percent of total jewellery sales in all of China." HRD Antwerp introduced visitors to the stand its D-Scope DV4, a portable microscope designed for the jewellery market. D-Scope DV4 is a high quality stereo zoom microscope with gem manipulator and vacuum system. It is equipped with a sophisticated illumination system that consists of unique halogen dark field lighting and LED-top lights for quick examination possibilities. At the booth demonstrations of the new Hearts & Arrows measuring system by HRD Antwerp were held. The company also presented its refined cut grade and exclusive security features included in its new HRD Antwerp certificate, such as line structures, watermark, embossed logo, fluo marks and micro text. Amberif Fair (Poland) HRD Antwerp participated in the Amberif fair in Gdansk, Poland (March 11-14, 2009). Mrs. Veerle Van Esbroek, a senior HRD Antwerp expert, held a lecture on the 'Evolution of Synthetic and Treated Diamonds', followed by an update on the refined HRD Antwerp cut grade and the new HRD Antwerp diamond certificate. A demonstration with D-scope microscope and D-screen - the diamond detection device developed by HRD Antwerp - was demonstrated at the HRD Antwerp booth. Poland is a traditional amber market, but as consumers' purchasing power increases, the diamond jewellery market has initiated a cautious but steady grow since a few years. HRD Antwerp has a cooperation agreement with the Polish Association of Jewellery Experts (SRJ) in the field of education, which has led to loupe courses, diamond grading courses and workshops in the past few years.