SBD member company Mac Precious Stones is one of the flourishing family businesses in the Antwerp diamond sector. Mac Precious Stones offers an extensive range of specialist services within the diamond and gemstone industry. From removing laser inscriptions to recutting diamonds to exacting standards, Mac Precious Stones is known for its eye for quality. Their expertise also includes culet repairs, high-quality baguette and taper cuts using advanced measurements, and cutting and cutting of various gemstones including rubies, sapphires, emeralds and semi-precious stones. SBD spoke to the Suchowolski family about the values and traditions in this family business and the passing on of expertise to the next generations.

The company, founded by Jaques Suchowolski, has a rich history dating back to the island of Malta, where their former polishing factory was located. As the third generation in the diamond and gemstone industry, Mac Precious Stones remains true to its core values and traditions. “The name MAC comes from “Malta, Antwerp,Cutting,” symbolic of our heritage and dedication to craftsmanship,” explains director Michaël Suchowolski.

“The technologies used in our polishing factory have evolved drastically,” says Michaël Suchowolski. “For example, we work with Sarine and Helium technology,” adds son Joffrey Suchowolski. Joffrey works as a specialist grinder at Mac Precious Stones. What is still the same, however, are the family values. “At Mac Precious Stones, traditional family values are the guiding principle in our corporate culture. Integrity, craftsmanship, customer focus and respect for heritage are some of the core values that we hold dear,” explains Michaël Suchowolski. As a family business, Mac Precious Stones also attaches great importance to passing on values and skills to future generations. This is necessary, because the median age of diamond workers was 53 years on December 31, 2023. “The average age of diamond and gemstone workers in Antwerp is high. We attach great importance to mentoring and training young diamond and gemstone professionals,” says Joffrey Suchowolski.

Finally: how does Mac Precious Stones see the future? “Mac Precious Stones is optimistic and sees many opportunities for growth and innovation. In a niche where few find themselves, we believe we are well positioned.” Michael Suchowolski highlights the growing demand for highly calibrated baguettes, tapers and high-quality colored gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies. “These stones remain sought after for their beauty, rarity and value. At Mac Precious Stones, we are committed to using our expertise and craftsmanship to  continue to meet customer demand and thus contribute to the growth of the industry.”