NeighbourhoodUilenburg (Old Centre)
Craftsmanship & Heritage
Gassan Diamonds Amsterdam
Step inside a historic steam-powered factory to witness the precision of master diamond polishers and explore Amsterdam's sparkling legacy.
Best forCraftsmanship and luxury
Plan for1 hour
Worth knowingFree tours are available daily
The House of Gassan
A Legacy of Brilliance
Gassan Diamonds is situated in a monumental brick factory on the island of Uilenburg. Originally built in 1879 as a steam-powered diamond works, the building now serves as the 'House of Gassan,' where the centuries-old Amsterdam tradition of diamond polishing continues in a modern context. It is one of the city's most visited industrial heritage sites, drawing over 350,000 people annually.
The facility functions as both an active workshop and a luxury retail space. Visitors are invited to see the transformation of rough stones into shimmering gems, guided by experts who explain the technical nuances of the trade. Whether you are a serious buyer or a curious traveler, the factory provides a transparent look at an industry that has shaped Amsterdam’s economic history since the 16th century.
Industrial Roots
From Steam to Sparkle
The diamond industry in Amsterdam flourished following the arrival of Sephardic Jews in the late 1500s, who brought the trade to the city. By the 19th century, Amsterdam was the undisputed diamond capital of the world. The Gassan building itself was once the largest diamond-polishing factory in Europe, powered by massive steam engines that drove the polishing wheels.
Samuel Gassan founded the current company in 1945, focusing on diamond cutting, wholesale, and retail. After his passing, the business remained in the family, eventually moving back into this historic Uilenburg factory to preserve the connection between the craft and its architectural home. Today, the site stands as a monument to the city's industrial resilience and its enduring reputation for quality.
What to See
The Diamond Experience
Live Demonstration
The Polishing Benches
Watch master craftsmen at work as they use traditional techniques to grind and polish facets onto diamonds. You can see the precision required to handle stones that are often smaller than a match head.
Innovation
The Gassan 121
Learn about the patented Gassan 121 cut. While a standard brilliant cut has 57 facets, this unique Amsterdam-designed cut features 121 facets, resulting in exceptional brilliance and fire.
Education
The Four Cs
Guides provide a masterclass in diamond grading, teaching you how to evaluate Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut. It is an essential primer for anyone looking to understand gemstone value.
Visitor Flow
Planning Your Visit
Daily Access
Seven Days a Week
The factory is open daily, making it a reliable stop for any itinerary. Tours run frequently throughout the day, typically lasting about 60 minutes.
Multilingual
Global Welcome
Tours are offered in more than 25 languages, reflecting the international nature of the diamond trade and the diverse visitors who come to the House of Gassan.
Retail
Boutique Browsing
After the tour, visitors can browse the extensive collection of loose diamonds, high-end jewelry, and luxury watches from brands like Rolex and Jaeger-LeCoultre.
Visual Heritage
Inside the Factory
The interior of Gassan Diamonds retains much of its industrial character, with high ceilings and large windows designed to let in the natural light essential for diamond grading. The contrast between the rugged brickwork of the 19th-century factory and the sparkling displays of modern jewelry creates a unique atmosphere that captures both the past and present of Amsterdam's luxury sector.
Need to Know
Visitor Information
Gassan Diamonds offers free guided tours to the public, providing an accessible way to learn about one of the city's most famous exports. While walk-ins are often welcome, booking in advance is recommended for groups or specific language requirements.
Official Gassan ToursCity Card
I amsterdam Benefits
Holders of the I amsterdam City Card can access the factory and often receive a small gift or discount in the boutique.
Accessibility
Facility Access
The factory is equipped to handle large groups and is generally accessible, though the historic nature of the building means some areas may have specific navigation paths.
Bookable experiences
Experiences around Gassan Diamonds.
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Getting There
Location & Transport
Gassan Diamonds is located at Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173-175. It is easily reachable on foot from the Waterlooplein metro station or the Rembrandt House Museum. For those arriving by water, many canal boat tours have a dedicated stop at the factory's private jetty, allowing for a scenic arrival directly from the Amstel river.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour at Gassan Diamonds really free?⌄
Yes, Gassan Diamonds offers free 'Diamond Experience' tours daily to introduce visitors to the history and craft of diamond polishing.
How long does a typical visit take?⌄
A standard guided tour lasts approximately one hour, though you may want to stay longer to browse the jewelry and watch collections.
Can I buy a diamond and have it set on-site?⌄
Yes, Gassan offers the service of choosing a loose diamond and having it set into a jewelry piece of your choice while you wait.