William Goldberg, the legendary diamantaire known for his mantra, “The magic is in the make,” was celebrated last Thursday during a panel at the headquarters of the company he founded. The event coincided with the release of The William Goldberg Way, a book commemorating his life and legacy.
A Diamond Artisan at Heart
Goldberg, who passed away in 2003, left an indelible mark on the diamond industry. While he was an astute businessman, his daughter, Eve Goldberg, emphasized his artistic approach to diamonds. “Every diamond to him was a work of art.… He didn’t care about the 4Cs. The perfect diamond was the one that spoke to you,” she said.
Famous for quotes like, “Don’t cheat a diamond out of its beauty” and “Diamonds are like God’s smiles,” Goldberg believed each stone was special and deserved its unique treatment.
Industry Pioneer and Advocate for Transparency
Goldberg’s contributions extended beyond artistry:
- As president of New York’s Diamond Dealers Club (1978–1984), he championed transparency in a traditionally secretive industry.
- He was the first to allow women into the club, aiming to make the diamond trade more inclusive and authentic.
“Harry Winston shied away from publicity, but my father embraced it,” recalled his son, Saul Goldberg. “He wanted to elevate the industry and bring it into the light.”
A Legacy of Generosity and Equality
Known for treating everyone with equal respect, Goldberg mentored countless individuals in the trade. “He treated billionaires and floor sweepers the same,” Eve said. “He cared about fairness, fair wages, and helping others succeed.”
A Milestone Celebration
The newly released The William Goldberg Way, coauthored by Jill Newman and Jackie Caradonio, celebrates the company’s 75th anniversary and 25 years of the Ashoka cut, a signature design. The book is available on the company’s website.