The apex bodies of Belgium’s diamond and jewellery sectors, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) and Ars Nobilis, last week signed a memorandum of understanding to work in close co-operation with each other. Announcing the step on social media, AWDC said that the diamond and jewellery industries are closely interconnected and so they will jointly “defend the interests of two brilliant industries and a beautiful product, from a rough diamond to a shiny jewel”.

The Diamond Loupe, the news website associated with AWDC, reported that the step is “an effort to streamline the Antwerp diamond trade with jewellery manufacturers and retailers in Belgium”. Under the MoU, the members of Ars Nobilis will be able to call upon the services of the AWDC regarding legal advice, training, public relations and communication, advocacy and security.

As a result of the collaboration, AWDC will also play a B2C role and extend its professional reach across the entire country. Ari Epstein, CEO AWDC told the website, “Working together with jewellers is the ideal way for a wholesale trade center to keep its finger on the pulse of consumers." He added that AWDC’s campaigns will now cover the entire diamond supply chain and better defend the interests of its stakeholders and broader community.

Jan Orye, Chairman Ars Nobilis told the site that it was “time for Belgium's jewellers to tap into the vast reach of the AWDC and take advantage of their consolidated expertise”. He further said that it will generate new opportunities and efficiencies for Ars Nobilis' 250 members.

Pic caption: Signing the MoU

Pic courtesy: ‘Diamonds and Antwerp’ on Facebook