What is the Diamond Capital of Europe? Uncover the Sparkling Secret!
Brussels: The Unofficial Diamond Capital of Europe
Honestly, when most people think of diamonds, they might picture New York, London, or even Dubai. But did you know the real diamond heart of Europe is actually Brussels? Yep, it’s not the first place that comes to mind, but this city holds a key place in the diamond trade. Let me take you on a little journey to explain why this seemingly quiet European city is a glittering hub for diamonds.
Why Brussels?
You might be wondering, "Why Brussels?" Well, it's all about history and location. For centuries, Brussels has been a major player in the global diamond trade. If you look closely, you'll notice the Diamond District in Brussels, a 1-square-kilometer area where over 1,800 diamond dealers operate. That's pretty impressive, right?
You see, back in the 15th century, when diamonds started becoming the gem of choice for royalty and the wealthy, Belgium was at the center of European trade. Over time, that rich legacy has turned Brussels into the go-to place for buying, selling, and trading diamonds.
The Diamond District: Where the Magic Happens
Okay, let’s dig a bit deeper into this Diamond District. It’s a bit of a hidden gem (pun intended), and trust me, it's unlike any other place you've ever visited.
What’s So Special About the Diamond District?
The Diamond District of Brussels is like the beating heart of the European diamond industry. Here, millions of dollars worth of diamonds pass through every single day. From tiny specks to massive stones, you’ll find it all here. This district is home to both the oldest and the newest diamond dealers in the world. Honestly, it’s like a secret world for those in the know.
I remember my first visit to the district – it was a whirlwind! One minute, you're walking along a normal Brussels street, and the next, you're in a bustling area filled with security, secretive businesses, and people exchanging sparkling treasures. It’s almost like being in a diamond-laden labyrinth.
Key Figures in Brussels’ Diamond Market
You might be surprised to learn that Antwerp, a neighboring Belgian city, was once considered the diamond capital of Europe, but over time, Brussels’ market and trade infrastructure grew stronger. Today, Brussels' role is more influential than ever. It handles rough diamond trading, but Antwerp still holds a strong legacy for cutting and polishing diamonds. Fun fact: roughly 50% of all rough diamonds traded globally come through Brussels.
A Real-Life Diamond Trade Experience
Actually, I was talking to a friend last week who works in the diamond business, and she told me something pretty wild. She said, “You’d be shocked how fast things happen in Brussels’ Diamond District. One minute, someone is just a regular person walking by, and the next, they're walking out with a diamond worth tens of thousands of dollars, all completed with just a handshake.” It’s that smooth, fast, and professional. It's not like anything I expected when I first heard about it.
How Brussels Became the Hub
Now, let’s talk about the evolution of Brussels as the diamond powerhouse. The history behind this is honestly a bit fascinating. Brussels didn’t just wake up one day and decide it wanted to be the diamond capital – no, no, no. It took years of investment, innovation, and geographical advantages.
The Importance of the Zaventem Airport
A crucial factor for Brussels' rise was the Zaventem Airport, a major logistics hub for diamond shipments. The airport’s proximity made it easy for traders to get their precious goods in and out of the city quickly. It also opened the door for international connections, further boosting the city’s role in the diamond industry.
How Politics and Trade Came Into Play
Another interesting piece of the puzzle: Belgium’s trade agreements and stable political climate. After World War II, Belgium made sure to create a solid foundation for the diamond market. This didn’t just help Brussels rise, but it allowed the whole region to stay connected with global trade, further enhancing the city’s role in the world market.
Brussels vs. Antwerp: The Friendly Rivalry
Well, now that we’ve covered Brussels, you may be asking, “But what about Antwerp? Isn’t it the historical diamond capital of Europe?” And yes, you’re right. Antwerp is still a big player, but Brussels has been quietly gaining ground.
While Antwerp is where diamonds are cut and polished, Brussels takes the lead in raw diamond trading. The two cities work closely together, but each has its own specialty. To me, it’s a bit like the yin and yang of the diamond world.
I was chatting with a colleague from Antwerp, and he was saying how much the two cities complement each other. He admitted, “Antwerp does the fancy stuff with diamonds, but Brussels makes sure the diamonds get into the right hands.” It's a partnership that works – and it works well.
The Future of Brussels as the Diamond Capital
What’s next for Brussels? Well, I think the future is bright, no pun intended. With its continued strategic location, excellent infrastructure, and expanding international connections, Brussels is likely to keep its place as the diamond capital of Europe for years to come. While Antwerp may continue to have its diamond-cutting prowess, Brussels’ role in the rough diamond trade ensures it will remain the continent's sparkling heart.
In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if the market only grows in the coming years, especially with emerging markets in Asia becoming major players in the diamond business. Brussels is primed to continue leading the way.
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem
So, there you have it: Brussels is the diamond capital of Europe, and it’s not just because it’s home to some incredible diamonds. It’s the history, the infrastructure, the people, and even the politics that have come together to create a glittering industry. If you ever get the chance, visit the Diamond District – just make sure you’ve got your security badges and a good sense of awe.
What do you think? Have you ever thought of Brussels as the diamond capital? Let me know your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you!
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The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.
Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?
How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).
How tall is a average 15 year old?
Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years
| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
|---|---|---|
| 14 Years | 112.0 lb. (50.8 kg) | 64.5" (163.8 cm) |
| 15 Years | 123.5 lb. (56.02 kg) | 67.0" (170.1 cm) |
| 16 Years | 134.0 lb. (60.78 kg) | 68.3" (173.4 cm) |
| 17 Years | 142.0 lb. (64.41 kg) | 69.0" (175.2 cm) |
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Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.
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