Why is Antwerp called a diamond city? Since the 15th century, it has been a global hub for the diamond trade. Rough stones were imported by ship, cut, traded, and sold right here—often just steps from the Scheldt River. That sparkling tradition lives on today in DIVA, the museum for diamonds, jewellery, and silver.
Just off the Grote Markt, seven themed galleries lead visitors from raw ore to refined masterpieces. Since its reopening in May 2018, DIVA has displayed more than 650 highlights—from medieval religious silver to modern jewellery. Art-nouveau pieces, baroque silver, and contemporary design come alive through rich storytelling and immersive setups.
There are no dry showcases here—visitors are greeted by a butler, and rooms are filled with light, sound, and interaction. DIVA also houses a studio, conservation lab, and a reading room with specialist literature. Even children can explore with “Magpie,” the museum’s playful mascot.
DIVA is more than a museum—it’s a tribute to Antwerp’s five-century legacy of sparkle.
Sources. Story: ['Source Story: https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/DIVA_(museum)', 'Source Story: https://divaantwerp.be/en/home/welcome-to-diva-museum-for-diamonds-jewellery-and-silver', 'Source Story: https://divaantwerp.be/nl/about/het-museum', 'Source Story: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DIVA_Museum_for_Diamonds%2C_Jewellery_and_Silver', 'Source Story: https://www.okv.be/museum/diva-antwerp-home-diamonds'] Photos: Source Photo: FrDr, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
