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The Legacy of Asscher Diamonds

Renowned for cutting some of the most beautiful diamonds in history, the Asscher family has become synonymous with the art of diamond cutting.

Six generations in the making, their story continues to unfold, building on a legacy that began in Amsterdam in 1854.

Discover the journey of the Asscher family, from its Amsterdam roots to a global legacy alongside royalty, cultural icons, and diamond lovers around the world.

Tolstraat 127, Amsterdam

Founded in 1854, the Asscher Diamond Company established its home at Tolstraat 127 in Amsterdam — the birthplace of a diamond-cutting dynasty that continues to this day.

Over the past 170 years, these walls have witnessed extraordinary diamond-cutting achievements, the creation of the world’s first patented diamond cut, two world wars, and visits from royalty and distinguished figures from around the world.

In 1980, the company received the Dutch Royal Predicate from Queen Juliana, becoming the Royal Asscher Diamond Company.

Now in its sixth generation, the family-run company continues to operate from the very same building where the Asscher legacy began.

The Cullinan Diamond

Discovered on January 26, 1905, in South Africa’s Premier Mine, the Cullinan remains the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found, weighing 3,106 carats.

Named after mine chairman Sir Thomas Cullinan, its discovery captivated the world.

What followed is a remarkable chapter in diamond history, involving royalty, grand-scale deception, and one of the most daring diamond-cutting endeavors ever undertaken.

The Excelsior Diamond

Discovered in 1893, the Excelsior Diamond was the largest known diamond in the world at the time.

A decade later, the Asscher Diamond Company was commissioned to transform this extraordinary stone into smaller segments. The task demanded exceptional skill, navigating the diamond’s internal carbon inclusions.

The resulting diamonds were significant in size, though the decision to cut the stone into smaller pieces remains a fascinating mystery in diamond history.

The Golden Book

Since opening our doors at Tolstraat 127 in Amsterdam 167 years ago, Royal Asscher has welcomed an extraordinary array of visitors, from heads of state and royalty to industry leaders and cultural icons. Though their backgrounds differed, they shared one common passion: a love of diamonds.

For over a century, our Golden Book has captured the personal messages of those who visited our offices and in-house atelier. Its pages bear the words of Emperors, Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses, and distinguished guests from around the world.

A treasured collection of memories, anecdotes, and heartfelt messages, the Golden Book remains one of Royal Asscher’s most cherished possessions — a living testament to a legacy shaped by diamonds and the people who love them.

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