Henri Daussi Loots was born in 1932 in Antwerp, Belgium. Antwerp, located in the heart of Europe, has been at the center of the world's diamond trade for over five centuries and continues to be known today as the diamond capital of the world. Diamonds and creating the finest jewelry has forever been a Loots family tradition. Henri was taught the art of diamond cutting by his father Jozef Loots who inherited the skills from his father. How to place different facets onto a rough diamond, turning it into a beautiful brilliant gem, and ultimately designing and creating a one of a kind jewel that will present the diamond at its utmost potential beauty. Henri went on to become a respected diamond cutter and build an international reputation. Specializing in large and valuable diamonds, Henri was commissioned to study and cut diamonds for many of the world's most acclaimed jewelry brands. Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth. You can only cut a diamond by using other diamonds. In the past, no one had ever managed to cut into a diamond, only being able to place facets onto a diamond. Henri always trusted and believed cutting and placing facets into a diamond was possible and made it his purpose. It would open up a whole new spectrum of potential diamond shapes. After years of work, Henri designed a special and unique diamond polishing wheel, called a scaif, which allowed him to finally cut facets into a diamond. Using this new groundbreaking tool, he cut the first perfect heart-shaped diamond. Since diamonds are a symbol of love and commitment, the heart-shaped diamond became an international sensation. Henri went on to create many more incredible diamond shapes and sculptures, many of which are on display in museums around the world. Henri passed on his knowledge, experience, and fascination for diamonds to his sons Jef and Dirk Loots who continued to grow their father's legacy.
