Belgian Market Report: Q3–Q4 2026

Posted By: Maxim Van Oppens ICA Ambassador Reports,

Belgian Market Report: Q3–Q4 2026

Maxim Van Oppens,
ICA Ambassador to Belgium

The Belgian colored gemstone trade exiting summer and heading into the fourth quarter of 2026 is cautiously optimistic by strong international engagement following the September trade shows in Hong Kong and Bangkok.

Following a stable summer Antwerp-based dealers report steady buyer traffic and demand for certified colored material. With the Christmas holidays approaching, local wholesalers and ateliers are focusing on traceable provenance, unique color pairings, and high-clarity stones. This is closely linked to the omnipresence of the Diamond Quarter, where discussions around synthetic and natural materials, transparency, and traceability are increasingly brought to end clients through awareness campaigns. This leads to buyers paying greater attention to provenance, treatment, and authenticity.

Transitioning deeper into Q4, traders note that while general volume moves at a measured pace, competition remains high for top-tier sapphires, rubies, and emeralds that meet rigorous ethical and origin-disclosure requirements. The Antwerp hub anticipates solid year-end closing activity as European and global retailers finalize their holiday showcases.

Public event at Antwerpen main station, where the Antwerp World Diamond Centre raised awareness among passers-by about the risk of deception by jewelers when purchasing (diamond) jewelry.

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