The Asscher family is one of a handful of diamond dynasties that have made an indelible mark on the diamond industry. The company bearing their name has been working in diamonds for over 150 years and is still run by the descendants of its founder. The Asschers have been responsible for cutting some of the most famous diamonds in history and, more recently, have been at the leading edge of design and development in diamond manufacturing and design. 

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Today, the company is owned by the sixth generation of the Asscher family. In 2008, Royal Asscher created the Star of Africa line, which guarantees a minimum donation of $50,000 to the Diamond Empowerment Fund, a non-profit international organization founded by Russell Simmons. Donations will sponsor students from Sierra Leone who attend the African Leadership Academy, instituted on the belief that ethical leadership is the key to transforming Africa. Revenue from the sale of items in the Star of Africa line provides funding to establish education, healthcare and self-sufficiency programs in Africa's diamond-producing areas.