3 new innovation projects within the Antwerp diamond sector

Diamond Innovation
A broad spectrum of diamond companies is making Antwerp the world’s most important diamond hub. A unique position the city wants to foster and further strengthen by innovation. Therefore, the city stimulates innovation through its 5 years programme "Antwerp Diamond Innovation Opportunities". In 2023, the agency ‘Verhaert | Masters in Innovation’ guided four diamond related companies in their process of becoming more future-proof.

Innovations and ‘lessons learned' to be shared with the sector

The city supports new ideas that originate from one of the identified collective innovation needs in the diamond sector. The needs were detected in finance, digitalisation, automation and robotisation, data analysis, cross-industry networking and sustainability & ESG.

At the end the year, the companies are asked to share their lessons learned with the sector. This year, four companies have been selected to participate in 3 trajectories.

"Antwerp Diamond Innovation Opportunities" in 2023

In this report, you will discover the newly formulated needs as well as the 3 elaborated projects in 2023 

ANTWERP DIAMOND INNOVATION OPPORTUNITIES. REPORT 2023.

M.S.D. & Flanders Diamond Manufacturing optimise the automated polishing process

Innovation in robotisation, automation

M.S.D. and Flanders Diamond Manufacturing are two companies specialised in polishing large-size diamonds. To further optimize the automated process, both companies are looking to improve the data transfer between the planning software and the polishing machines.

In this research project, system engineers of Verhaert | Masters in Innovation examined multiple solutions. Since off-the-shelf solutions were not available, several custom-made solutions were explored, suggested, and validated.

Baunat develops strategy and marketing to emphasize ethically crafted diamond jewellery

Innovation in digitalisation, sustainability & ESG

Baunat, a leading Antwerp diamond jewellery brand, encounters a fresh wave of customers driven by ethical considerations with a digital mindset. To service these consumers, the company is looking for ways to create a captivating in-store and online shopping experience that includes the information on the unique journey of the diamond jewellery.

The analysis of the current CSR & ESG activities, the evaluation of customer touchpoints and the creation of a service blueprint led to a new CSR & ESG communication strategy. Diamond block chain traceability technologies were explored. A prototype for a new jewellery packaging - including traceability features - was designed.

Wouters & Hendrix explores increasing their production efficiency with less waste

Innovation in digitalisation, sustainability & ESG

The internationally renowned Antwerp jewellery brand Wouters & Hendrix designs and makes jewellery in their Antwerp atelier. As a member of the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 the retailer wants to increase its production efficiency, using less energy and generating less waste.

A team of experts explored innovative ways to make the production leaner while preserving premium quality and the brand’s unique authenticity. Technologies as 3D scanning, 3D design and printing not only offer an interesting business opportunity with re-shoring options, but also contribute to lowering the carbon footprint and reducing raw material waste.

If you want to consult the report of 2022:

ANTWERP DIAMOND INNOVATION OPPORTUNITIES. REPORT 2022.

Submit your candidacy to work out an innovation in the diamond sector

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