The Gem Centre's Marie Simpson and Katherine Byrnes will travel to the diamond capital of the world without leaving the sapphire city of Inverell.
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Usually the pair would hop a plane and fly 17,000 kilometres to Antwerp in Belgium to source amazing diamonds for the store, however due to COVID-19 international travel restrictions that just isn't possible right now.
More than 80 per cent of the world's diamonds are first traded in Antwerp, according to Marie and Katherine.
"In normal circumstances, we would be flying to Belgium in September. Instead, we have arranged a "virtual" trip and will be communicating with our Antwerp diamond merchants via digital technology," Marie said.
The duo will have the opportunity to buy direct from the major Antwerp cutters and hope to pass "significant savings" on to customers in the Inverell area.
The Gem Centre has direct access to the Antwerp diamond trade as exclusive member of the Nationwide Jewellers Group.
"It is generally out of reach for a single jewellery store or small chain to buy direct from the diamond merchants in Antwerp," she said.
"One of the benefits of our nationwide jewellers membership is that we become a direct importer of the world's finest diamonds at a more affordable price. We are very excited about our ability to offer this unique service to our customers."
Antwerp sources have indicated to the pair that prices in the diamond district are even better than normal due to the global economic slowdown.
"We may miss the Belgian beer, delicious waffles, and chocolate this time around, but at least we can still source some amazing diamonds for our customers and look forward to making their dreams come true.
"We love chatting with our customers so stop by The Gem Centre to take a look at the most beautiful diamonds in the world, at an exceptional value," she said.
