Artur Beller, president of Antwerp trading club Beurs voor
Diamanthandel, died recently at age 77 in Antwerp. Beller also served as
president of the Belgian Federation of Diamond Bourses.

 
Artur Beller (Photo courtesy of WFDB)

“Artur’s passing leaves a real void in the diamond
trade, at his bourse, in Antwerp and in our federation,” said Avi Paz,
president of the WFDB, in a statement. “As a member of the of the
generation that rebuilt the Antwerp diamond sector after World War II, he
served among its leadership for almost 30 years, playing an absolutely critical
role. He was a true intellect, with a deep understanding not only of our
industry, but of the business world in general. We have lost a mentor, advisor, and friend.”

Beller had 60 years experience in the diamond industry. He
originally wanted to be a surgeon, but after taking a summer job as a diamond
sorter, he never left the business. Most of his career was spent at the head of
Diamex Manufacturing, which was established in 1956.

In 1983, he was elected to the board of Beurs voor
Diamanthandel, and in 1985, he was appointed vice president of the bourse. In
2003, he was elected bourse president.

To receive the
latest jewelry news and blogs every day in your inbox, subscribe to JCK’s
e-newsletter here.

JCK