Master diamond-cutter Gabriel Tolkowsky has been knighted by the Belgian government for his contribution to the diamond industry and his “honorable and respectful lifestyle.”

Tolkowsky was presented with the Knighthood Chevalier de L’ Ordre du Roi Leopold II during a recent ceremony in Antwerp. The order was established during the first half of the 19th century to recognize the contributions of people within various trades to the national effort. Tolkowsky’s continual development of new ideas, new cuts, and new designs for diamonds, as well as his lifelong commitment to the success of the diamond trade, made him a worthy recipient of the knighthood, according to a statement. Tolkowsky’s accomplishments include cutting two of the 10 diamonds considered truly impressive throughout history.

“Diamonds are joyful, jewelry is joyful—it is loving,” Tolkowsky said. “I cannot think of anything sad when I look at diamonds. This is a joyful announcement suitable for a joyful trade. I am only disappointed that I didn’t get my white horse.”

JCK