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Diamond District

Known as Diamond Jewelry Way, this Midtown hub is the world's densest region for diamond exchange, where nearly 90% of all diamonds entering the United States pass through its glittering storefronts.

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Where is the Diamond District located?

The Diamond District is centered on 47th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. This section of the street is also known as Diamond Jewelry Way.

What is the Diamond District known for?

It is a global hub of the diamond business and the world's largest and densest region for diamond exchange. Close to 90% of the diamonds that enter the U.S. pass through this district.

How many jewelers are in the district?

The district contains more than 2,600 independent jewelers, with some reports indicating up to 3,500 independent businesses involved in sales, cutting, and polishing as of 2019.

What is the history of the Diamond District?

The diamond trade in New York dates back to the late 1700s on Maiden Lane in lower Manhattan. It gradually moved north over 200 years, settling at its current location on 47th Street in the 1940s.

Are there any tips for shopping there?

Visitors are encouraged not to be afraid to haggle, as bargaining is considered part of the shopping experience in the district.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Diamond District is centered on 47th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan. Officially known as Diamond Jewelry Way, this concentrated strip serves as a premier jewelry-shopping destination and a global hub for the diamond business. The entrance to the area is marked by two Art Deco diamond-shaped lampposts, signaling the start of a zone that houses between 2,600 and 3,500 independent businesses specializing in cutting, polishing, and sales. The district's presence in Midtown is the result of a gradual northward migration. While the concept of a diamond trade in New York dates back to the late 1700s on Maiden Lane, the industry shifted over 200 years. Dealers moved from early districts near Canal Street, the Bowery, and the Financial District before finally settling on 47th Street in the 1940s. Today, the area is the world's largest and densest region for diamond exchange. Its significance is underscored by the presence of the Gemological Institute of America's New York campus. Beyond the high-end trade, the district maintains a unique local character, featuring establishments like the IDT Megabite Cafe, a kosher cafe serving the professional community. Visitors to the district will find a high-energy environment where bargaining is a standard part of the shopping experience. The area is formally managed by the Diamond District Partnership, a Business Improvement District headquartered at 580 Fifth Avenue.

Visitor tips

  • Look for the two Art Deco diamond-shaped lampposts to identify the official entrance of the district.
  • Be prepared to haggle; bargaining is considered a standard part of the shopping experience here.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the best way to experience the district is by strolling the full length of 47th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.

Nearby context

Located in the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Diamond District occupies a prime section of 47th Street. It sits between the luxury retail corridors of Fifth Avenue and the commercial activity of Sixth Avenue, making it a glittering bridge between two of the city's busiest thoroughfares.

Sources

Evidence and links