Bidspirit auction | Israel - “The Diamond -

Israel - “The Diamond - Israel’s Sparkling Export” - Official Presentation Medal 1974 - Silver 935, 47g (approx. 43.95g pure silver, 1.41 oz), 45 mm - An official medal issued in 1974 honoring the Israeli diamond industry, which became one of the most important and internationally recognized export industries of the State of Israel during the 20th century. Israel’s diamond polishing industry began to develop in the late 1930s with the arrival of diamond craftsmen from Europe. Over the years, Israel became a global center for diamond trading and polishing. The heart of the industry was located in the Diamond Exchange building in Ramat Gan, one of the world’s leading international centers for rough and polished diamonds. The obverse depicts the Diamond Exchange building in Ramat Gan against a geometric diamond-like background. Some versions of the medal include a tiny inset diamond in the center of the design. Around the rim appears the inscription in Hebrew and English: “The Diamond - Israel’s Sparkling Export”, together with the year 1974. The reverse features a seven-branched menorah integrated with industrial gears symbolizing Israeli trade and industry throughout the world. Around the rim appears the inscription in Hebrew and English: “Ministry of Commerce & Industry”.