Diamonds & Jewellery Store in Cape Town
craftsmanship completes it
The Diamond Works is Cape Town’s premier diamonds and jewellery store, established in 2001 in the heart of the city. A diamonds and jewellery store unlike any other – we combine a GIA-certified gemology team, on-site master goldsmiths, and a world-class showroom to guide every client from first enquiry to finished piece. Our collection spans natural white diamonds, black diamonds, rare tanzanite, and bespoke jewellery designed and crafted in our Cape Town atelier.
Open daily. Free guided tour included.
Our Legacy of African Excellence Since 2001
Located in the heart of Cape Town, The Diamond Works Institute celebrates over two decades of African diamond and tanzanite artistry.
Born from a passion to share South Africa’s diamond legacy, we combine heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation to create an unforgettable experience.
Our atelier and boutique offer a rare insight into the journey from rough stone to radiant brilliance – where ethical sourcing meets world-class jewellery design. Every visit reveals why The Diamond Works is recognised as a leader in luxury diamond jewellery in South Africa.
Signature Diamond Experiences in Cape Town
Discover Cape Town’s ultimate diamond experience – where South African heritage meets timeless craftsmanship. Begin your journey with a glass of sparkling wine before stepping behind the scenes to witness expert diamond cutting and polishing in action. Our skilled guides unveil the secrets of these exquisite gems and share the captivating story of Tanzanite – a gemstone 1,000 times rarer than diamonds, found only at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Expert demonstrations revealing the precision of diamond polishing.
- A virtual reality journey through the historic Kimberley Mine.
- An augmented reality showcase of Elizabeth Taylor’s famed jewels.
- A guided tasting of premium South African wines paired with artisanal chocolates.
- Interactive sessions revealing the intricate art of diamond grading.
Tanzanite Jewellery Cape Town — 1,000 Times Rarer Than Diamonds
in Every Gem
Experience the brilliance of Africa’s heritage in every gem. Our exclusive relationships with leading African mines and skilled local craftsmen ensure each piece tells a story of origin, authenticity, and artistry.
With decades of expertise, our GIA-certified gemmologists hand-select the finest diamonds, tanzanite, and precious stones, while our master goldsmiths craft them into timeless creations that celebrate African excellence and design.
Our Diamond & Jewellery Collections
The Diamond Works only selects the very best stones that meet The Diamond Works standard, reviewing Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.
The Diamond Works only selects the very best stones that meet The Diamond Works standard, reviewing Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.
The Diamond Works only selects the very best stones that meet The Diamond Works standard, reviewing Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.
Customer Reviews
Visit The Diamond Works Institute
Situated minutes from the V&A Waterfront, we offer a world-class experience:
- Complimentary expert-guided tours.
- Tax-free shopping for international visitors.
- GIA-certified expertise ensuring supreme quality.
- Fair Trade Tourism certification demonstrating our commitment to ethical practices.
- Wheelchair accessibility and braille descriptions.
Open daily 9 am to 7 pm
Take home more than memories – acquire a piece of African excellence that you’ll treasure forever.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Diamond Works Cape Town
Where is The Diamond Works located in Cape Town?
The Diamond Works is located at Ground Floor, 10 Christiaan Barnard Street, Cape Town City Centre, 8000. We are open every day from 9 am to 7 pm, including public holidays. The store is within walking distance of major hotels, the Cape Town city sightseeing bus stop, and the central business district.
Is entry to The Diamond Works free?
Yes — entry is completely free. The Sparkling Tour, diamond cutting demonstrations, virtual reality Kimberley Mine experience, and augmented reality showcase are all complimentary. Wine and chocolate tastings are available at an additional cost depending on group size. No booking is required; walk-ins are welcome daily from 9 am to 7 pm.
Are the diamonds at The Diamond Works GIA certified?
Yes. Our GIA-certified gemologists hand-select every diamond and tanzanite stone in our collection. Diamonds come with a GIA grading report on request, providing independent verification of cut, colour, clarity, and carat. All purchases include full provenance documentation confirming conflict-free, ethically sourced origin from African mines.
Can I design a custom engagement ring at The Diamond Works?
Yes. Our on-site master goldsmiths offer a full bespoke engagement ring service. You select your preferred diamond or tanzanite stone, choose your setting and metal — white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum — and we manufacture your ring in our Cape Town atelier. Design consultations are complimentary.
What is tanzanite and why is it valuable?
Tanzanite is a rare blue-violet gemstone found exclusively near the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania — making it approximately 1,000 times rarer than diamonds. Its value is driven by unique trichroic colour, increasing mining scarcity, and singular origin. Geologists estimate current deposits could be depleted within a generation, making it a compelling investment stone.
Are diamonds cheaper to buy in South Africa?
South African retail diamond prices are competitive internationally, as they are influenced by global commodity markets rather than proximity to mines. The real advantage for international visitors is the VAT refund available on qualifying purchases, which effectively reduces the price by 15%. The Diamond Works provides full GIA grading reports and provenance documentation on every stone.
What types of jewellery can I buy at The Diamond Works?
The Diamond Works stocks natural white diamonds, black diamonds, rare tanzanite jewellery, diamond engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, neckpieces, tennis bracelets, and luxury watch brands including Hublot, Longines, and Rado. Bespoke pieces are designed and manufactured on-site in our Cape Town goldsmith atelier. International visitors qualify for tax-free shopping on eligible purchases.
Do I need to book an appointment to visit The Diamond Works?
No appointment is needed for the showroom or Sparkling Tour — simply walk in daily between 9 am and 7 pm. Appointments are recommended for custom jewellery design consultations with our master goldsmiths, private group experiences, and the wine and chocolate tasting. Book online or call +27 21 425 1970.
What is the difference between tanzanite and a diamond?
Diamonds are formed from carbon and found on multiple continents; tanzanite is a blue-violet zoisite mineral found only near Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzanite is approximately 1,000 times rarer. Diamonds rate 10 on the Mohs hardness scale; tanzanite rates 6 to 6.5 and requires more careful handling. Both are available at The Diamond Works in Cape Town.
Does The Diamond Works offer tax-free shopping for tourists?
Yes. International visitors to The Diamond Works in Cape Town qualify for VAT refunds on eligible purchases above the minimum threshold. Our team guides you through the process at point of sale, and documentation is provided for submission at the airport. This makes purchasing diamonds and tanzanite jewellery significantly more cost-effective for overseas buyers.