Do you know India has a city that turns rough stones into sparkling diamonds? Welcome to Surat, the Indian Diamond City! Sitting on the banks of the Tapti River near the Arabian Sea, Surat has grown from a historic trading port into one of India’s busiest economic hubs. Famous for diamonds and textiles, this city supplies gems and fabrics to the world. From its fascinating legends to its booming industries, Surat truly lives up to its glittering reputation.
Indian Diamond City
Surat’s name means “face” in Gujarati, Hindi, and Urdu, but its history is far more interesting. Once called Suryapur or Suraj, the city grew around traders, merchants, and rulers. Its riverside location made it a thriving seaport, attracting people from across India and beyond. Over the years, Surat has developed into a modern, fast-growing city while keeping its colourful history alive.
How Surat Became the World’s Diamond Hub
So why is it called the Indian Diamond City? Almost 90% of the world’s diamonds are cut and polished here. Varachha’s workshops, mainly run by the Patel community, turn rough stones into sparkling treasures. Surat exports billions of rupees’ worth of diamonds every year, reaching markets such as Antwerp. Even through challenges like COVID-19, Surat continues to shine as the world’s diamond capital.
