On Sunday, we joined our second UniWorld Mystery Cruise adventure on board the River Queen in Amsterdam. As was the case last year, when we went on our first Mystery Cruise, we had no prior knowledge of what was to happen beyond the cruise would start and end in Amsterdam.
After getting checked in and partially unpacked, we joined our fellow traveller’s in the lounge for the ‘big reveal’ – what was to happen the next day.
The Captain, and members of his staff, performed the required safety briefing and provided general information about the ship. Once that was completed, Rik, the cruise director, continued the information ending with the ‘big reveal’ which was Barbara coming to the stage with a diamond tiara and a sparking red gown and a diamond topped staff.
Seems we were to visit one of the foremost diamond houses in the world – Coster Diamonds is one of the world’s oldest and most trusted diamond factory has a rich and compelling history. Royal Coster Diamonds has been around for a long time, dating back to at least 1840. I asked if there would be free samples, but alas, no there won’t be – however, I was told they do take credit cards.
The following morning, gathering together on the coach, we took a short ride to the Coster Diamond home in Amsterdam.
As we entered the building, we watched two workers polishing diamonds. Polishing, or faceting, uses a cast iron disc which rotates at 3200 rps and is impregnated with diamond dust and olive oil. The diamond is set in an adjustable ‘dop’ and pressed against the disc. The angle of the diamond must be changed for each facet. Naturally he more facets results in a higher cost – and waste.
During the tour, our guide explained everything you may want to know about the mystical world of diamonds. He spoke about the origins of diamonds and the process a diamond goes through once it has been retrived from the ground. While we have learned about diamonds over the years, the four basic criteria hasn’t changed on how to evaluate a diamond – the 4 C’s carat, cut, clarity and color. There are a number of levels within each category each impacting the final quality and of course cost of the diamond. There is so much more to know and appreciate about a diamond than just the sparkle.
A regular brilliant diamond has 57 facets, while this unique diamond cut, of Royal Coster’s own patented diamond has no less than 201 facets. These extra facets make the light reflect even more within the diamond and creates a sparkling effect that is no match for any other diamond shape in the world.
During the presentation, our guide pulled a number of diamonds to share (they never left his sight) from very small to one that was 4 carats.
After showing us a bunch of diamonds, champagne was presented. In each glass was a very small ‘stone’. The surprise, of course, was that one of these stones was a very small diamond.
Not sure what it was worth but a very nice souvenir of the experience. Needless to say, we didn’t get the glass with the diamond.
Naturally, on the way out, there was a gift shop. Fortunately, only post cards jumped out to find their way into Janeen’s bag. I was ready to spend BIG but she wasn’t interested. Maybe next time.
After our diamond adventure, we walked a few short blocks to the Cobra Art Company (www.cobraamsterdam.com). This family business, started in 1983, is operated by Leon Jonkman – who just happens to be the husband of our Cruise Director, Rik. This wonderful spot has a number of very interesting works including works printed on plexiglass and other materials.
The place was filled with paintings, various objects and sculptures. There were some very interesting displays and reminded me somewhat of the works we have by Jeff Burke (https://www.jtburke.com) – who does photographic artwork in his studio in Pasadena. In-addition to getting to enjoy the wonderful art, we had some very delicious snacks which Rik had made! Seems Rik became quite the baker during the lock down and was amongst the finalist for the Dutch version of the Great Bakeoff.
After our visit, we went to the trolly stop and boarded an historic tram for our journey back to the boat.
Our local Guide did a great job describing all the neighborhoods we travel and some of the historical links to the past.