As early as the 16th century, diamonds from India were brought directly to Antwerp. Within a short period of time, the local cutters gained an unparalleled reputation. But the real success story of the diamond city did not begin until the 19th century, when new sites were discovered in South Africa and many Jewish diamond dealers from Eastern Europe settled in the city. Since then, the diamond industry has definitely linked its economic destiny to the city of Rubens.

The Royal Mint of Belgium is issuing a 12½ euro gold mini-coin in the highest Belle-Epreuve...