Jewellery design is far older than many realize. In fact, it has been practiced for thousands of years, with its origins tracing back nearly 90,000 years. Early humans used sea shells to create necklaces, and in Africa, jewellery dating back around 75,000 years has been found. Ancient African tribes crafted necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from a fascinating blend of materials, including bones, teeth, seeds, and claws. Throughout history, jewellery has not only served as a decorative form of self-expression but also as a symbol of an individual’s or a family’s wealth, status, and cultural identity.
Despite its long-standing history, many people are still unfamiliar with what a jewellery designer actually does. A jewellery designer is an artist who creates unique and original pieces, such as rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants. The materials they use can vary widely, from precious metals and gemstones to more unconventional elements like beads, shells, teeth, feathers, and even bones. The key defining factor of a jewellery designer’s work is originality – as long as the piece is one-of-a-kind, the designer’s craftsmanship qualifies.
In recent years, the jewellery design scene in South Africa has seen a remarkable explosion of creativity. While not all of these designers are household names, many have made waves by moving away from traditional materials like gold, silver, and platinum, as well as diamonds and other precious gems. Instead, they’ve embraced more accessible materials like glass and metal beads, charms, feathers, and faux gems that mimic the appearance of stones like topaz, emeralds, diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. This shift has made locally designed jewellery more affordable for South Africa’s middle class, with pieces that are bold, vibrant, and uniquely South African.
The “bigger is better” mentality has taken over, with oversized, statement pieces becoming all the rage. This trend has not only gained popularity locally but has also drawn international attention, making South African jewellery a sought-after commodity for tourists. Celebrities are even sporting these designs, further solidifying their place in the fashion world.
For many, the idea of becoming a jewellery designer can seem out of reach, but it’s important to know that the skills required are not beyond anyone’s grasp. Numerous schools, colleges, and universities offer courses in jewellery design, providing aspiring designers with the education and tools they need to succeed. So, if at first you don’t succeed, remember: keep trying, and your creative potential could take you further than you ever imagined.
