The World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) mourns the death of Artur Beller, president of the Beurs voor Diamanthandel, who has passed away in Antwerp. Mr. Beller also served as president of the Belgian Federation of Diamond Bourses.



"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. "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. Our sympathies go out to his family and colleagues."



Born in 1934, Mr. Beller was involved in the diamond industry for almost 60 years. Recounting once that he originally had wanted to be a surgeon, he said that after taking a summer job at a diamond company he ended up staying in the diamond business.



Starting out as a diamond sorter, Mr. Beller spent most of his career at the head of Diamex Manufacturing, which was established in 1956.



He became a member of the Beurs voor Diamanthandel in 1957. In 1983, he was elected to its board and in 1985 he was appointed vice president of the bourse. In 2003, he was elected bourse president.