In ‘The Faces of the Industry,’ a recurring item in our newsletter, we bring an industry name to the spotlight, one at a time. This person has been nominated by the previous ‘Face of the Industry’ and will appoint the one for the next edition of the Antwerp Diamond Digest.
This time, we had the pleasure of interviewing Lielle Shapiro, manager and diamond grader Gem Report Antwerp. Lielle Shapiro is also the youngest ‘Face of the Industry’ yet, at the age of 30.
Can you tell us a bit about who you are, what you do, and which company you work for?
Lielle Shapiro: I'm Lielle Shapiro. In 2019, I took over an existing gemological laboratory, I changed its name to Gem Report Antwerp and restructured the whole company. We analyze, assess, and certify diamonds, gemstones, and jewelry. I manage the business, handle our clients, and I'm also a diamond grader—I'm really involved in about everything that goes on in the company.
Is the company large? How many people work there?
Lielle: There are five of us, including myself. One team member works part-time.
Do you enjoy doing what you do?
Lielle: It's super fun and incredibly interesting—but definitely challenging but that makes it the more satisfying at the end of the day.
How did you end up in this industry?
Lielle: Not by coincidence. My father has been in the colored stones business for 40 years. Funnily enough, I originally planned to study psychology. But here I am. I was always somewhat drawn to it, maybe because I saw my dad at work and used to visit his office as a child. I started getting curious, surrounded by beautiful gems, diamonds, and jewelry ... What woman wouldn’t love that?
Your family is also active in the industry. Has that helped or made it harder for you?
Lielle: In the beginning, it was hard. I was mostly known as "the daughter of Oded Shapiro" and I had to fight hard to earn my place and the respect of many established figures in the sector. But after ten years, I think people now see me as Lielle Shapiro. Of course, I’ll always be a daughter, but I’ve made a name for myself.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Lielle: Lots of coffee, some arguments with clients (laughs), managing the lab operations, grading diamonds and gemstones, customer service, and bookkeeping. It's always a busy day at the office.
What do you see as Antwerp's biggest strengths as a diamond centre?
Lielle: Antwerp’s historical reputation as the city of diamonds is a huge asset. That heritage builds trust. Antwerp is also centrally located in Europe and easily accessible by road, rail, and air.
Are your clients mainly from Antwerp?
Lielle: It’s actually quite international. I have clients from all over: Thailand, the Netherlands, France... it's very global.
What are the biggest challenges you face today?
Lielle: There are several. First, there’s a regulatory overload that makes running a business difficult. I had to fight just to open a bank account. Second, as a self-employed person in Belgium, I feel like we’re sometimes penalised more than supported. Third, the rise of lab-grown diamonds is causing prices of natural diamonds to fall, threatening the market. Natural diamonds have always symbolized luxury. I’d hate to see that disappear.
How do you see the future of Antwerp as a diamond hub?
Lielle: Unless government and banks stop making things so difficult, and unless labour costs are addressed, I fear Antwerp’s role will continue to decline. To turn things around, we need more marketing, better international positioning, and a clear strategy to reconnect Antwerp with global markets. The ‘We Protect A Legacy campaign and signing of the Luanda Accord is a great start.
What advice would you give someone new to the industry?
Lielle: Be ready for sweat, tears, and lots of ups and downs. Don’t be intimidated by big names or established companies. The diamond industry is not for the faint-hearted, you’ll definitely need a thick skin.
What’s your view on AWDC?
Lielle: I know you work hard to defend the interests of diamantaires and connect the industry to the government. That’s incredibly important. You really are the link between us and the policymakers.
And finally, what’s your hidden gem in Antwerp?
Lielle: Luddites Books and Wines in Hopland. It’s a charming little bookstore with a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a glass of wine. It’s located in the heart of the city, but it feels like an escape. In my opinion, truly a hidden gem.
Who do you nominate as the next ‘Face of the Industry’?
Lielle: Eddie Vleeschdrager. He’s a passionate, intelligent figure who has done so much for the industry. He’s written books, worked across various domains in diamonds, and even runs courses for jewelers in Belgium, France, and Luxembourg. He’d be a fantastic person to interview.
