Diamond Durability Laboratory (New York) to offer insurance related services internationally through partnership with HRD Antwerp (Belgium).

Diamond Durability Laboratory (DDL), the only gemological laboratory to focus on diamond damage, and HRD Antwerp, Europe's leading authority in diamond grading, have entered into partnership to expand DDL's insurance related services beyond New York. By hosting DDL's proprietary advanced imaging technology, HRD Antwerp is now offering DDL's risk evaluation report service, a requirement to obtain diamond processing insurance.

Since its formation in 2015, DDL has provided risk assessments on >$325 million worth of diamonds from its New York laboratory (580 5th Avenue). By working with HRD Antwerp, they have established a presence in the heart of the European diamond capital. Thomas Gelb, DDL cofounder & CEO states: "We are delighted to begin our journey of global expansion with such a well respected and trusted partner as HRD Antwerp. This collaboration will bring a new level of professionalism and transparency to the business of diamond risk evaluation in Antwerp, giving insurers confidence in taking on some of the largest and most significant diamonds that are manufactured here."

The risk evaluation service operates in the same way as obtaining a diamond grading report. Having contacted DDL to request a report, customers drop off their diamond at HRD Antwerp's diamond lab reception. The diamond is imaged using DDL's equipment in the secure grading laboratory. Once completed, the owner collects their diamond and is then contacted by DDL to provide them with the report. "Our goal is to build on the success of this service in Antwerp and tap into HRD Antwerp's international presence, allowing DDL to offer its services in every major diamond cutting center around the world", continues Mr. Gelb.

Since March 2018, DDL is offering its services at HRD Antwerp's laboratory in Hoveniersstraat 22. CEO Michel Janssens explains: "We are proud to count DDL, the only gemological laboratory offering a risk evaluation report service, as one of our trusted partners. By using DDL's advanced imaging technology, HRD Antwerp is enlarging its range of services dedicated to the diamond industry. Specifically, the delivery of this report is crucial for the Antwerp diamond manufacturers, as the city is well-known for hosting the most qualified diamond cutters and polishers, working with the biggest diamonds in the world."

Customers dropping off their rough and/or polished diamonds at our lab reception will have them returned the same or next day. Data are instantly sent to DDL, who will contact the customer in order to deliver them the report*.