Diamond Museum Bruges

Overview

The Diamond Museum explores Bruges' little-known role as the birthplace of diamond polishing. Lodewijk van Berquem, a Bruges goldsmith, is credited with inventing the scaife (polishing wheel) in 1476, revolutionising the diamond industry.

Highlights

• Polishing demonstration: A daily live demonstration of diamond cutting and polishing techniques.
• Historical displays: Scale models, tools, and replicas tracing diamond polishing from the 15th century to today.
• Famous diamonds: Reproductions and stories of historically significant stones.

History

The museum was founded to reclaim Bruges' contribution to diamond craftsmanship, often overshadowed by Antwerp. Van Berquem's invention of the scaife allowed flat facets to be polished symmetrically for the first time.

Visitor Tips

• Demonstration times: Usually at 12:15 daily — check on arrival.
• Shop: The attached jewellery shop sells pieces featuring Bruges-polished stones.
• Duration: 30–40 minutes.