DIVA Museum for Diamonds, Jewellery and Silver, Antwerp

The DIVA Museum for Diamonds, Jewellery, and Silver in Antwerp offers a captivating exploration of the rich history and craftsmanship of these luxury items. Situated in the heart of Antwerp's diamond district, the museum opened in May 2018, combining the collections of the former Diamond Museum and the Silver Museum. Just a short walk from the Grote Markt, DIVA presents its dazzling exhibits in a contemporary and interactive manner, featuring an array of diamonds, jewelry, and silverware.

Antwerp has been a hub for diamond trade for 575 years, peaking during Flanders' Golden Age. The city also became a global center for silversmithing, known for its superior craftsmanship. The Grote Markt area has long been central to those trading in gold, silver, and gems, with the River Scheldt facilitating the movement of these precious items throughout Europe.

DIVA's permanent exhibition, 'DIVA, a Brilliant Story,' guides visitors through the intricate journey of a piece of jewelry or silverware, from raw materials to finished products. The exhibition highlights the mining process of diamonds, the meticulous work of silversmiths, and the artistic significance and utilitarian roles of these exquisite items. Visitors can admire 650 pieces of diamonds, jewelry, and silver objects spanning from the 15th century to the present day.

Upon entering DIVA, visitors discover the Room of Wonder, inspired by historical curiosity cabinets and displaying global artifacts that highlight Antwerp’s history as a pre-mid-seventeenth-century art and luxury goods hub. The collection features silverware, jewelry, and exotic items such as coconuts and coral, each with its own story. The Atelier showcases diamond-cutting and silversmithing with interactive workbenches. In the Dining Room, elaborate silver services on the tables recreate the opulence of historical banquets, reflecting the decadent lifestyles of Antwerp's aristocracy.

DIVA also offers a diverse program of workshops and access to an extensive library, providing further opportunities to delve into the fascinating world of diamonds, jewelry, and silver.