Welcome to Our Store
New Table Mountain Range
About Afrogem
Afrogem is Cape Town’s premier destination for luxury African gemstone jewellery
Nestled on Buitengracht Street between the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain Cable Car Station, we combine South Africa’s rich mineral heritage with exceptional craftsmanship to create an experience unlike any other.
Our Story & Heritage
The Afrogem story began when Peter Gilson discovered a small piece of Tiger’s Eye and was captivated by its shimmering colours. That spark ignited a lifelong passion for minerals and gemstones, and, together with Ingrid – his soulmate even born on the same day – they built Afrogem into one of South Africa’s most respected jewellery houses.
From its beginnings as a single-floor factory on the third floor of what is now the Protea Fire & Ice Hotel, Afrogem pioneered Cape Town’s first jewellery factory tours. In 1994, Peter and Ingrid realised their dream of owning their own building, constructing the three-storey home of Afrogem at 181 Buitengracht Street with a 500 m² manufacturing floor and a stunning Discovery Lounge and showroom.
Today, Afrogem remains a true family business, run by second-generation siblings Kyle, Troy and Jess – who collectively bring more than 74 years of experience to the company. Kyle oversees the art of manufacturing, Troy curates every gemstone that passes through our doors, and Jess creates immersive experiences in our showroom and Discovery Lounge. Backing them is a phenomenal team of goldsmiths and factory staff, some of whom have been with the family for over 45 years, and a warm, welcoming showroom team that completes the Afrogem experience.
What Makes Us Unique
Rare Gemstone Specialists
Afrogem curates the largest collection of Tanzanite jewellery in Cape Town, showcasing everything from luxury handcrafted pieces to rough, unpolished stones in silver and loose gems awaiting your creative spark. Found only at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite is thought to be 1,000 times rarer than diamonds – a gemstone of a single generation, becoming more precious every day.
Rare Gemstone Specialists
Afrogem curates the largest collection of Tanzanite jewellery in Cape Town, showcasing everything from luxury handcrafted pieces to rough, unpolished stones in silver and loose gems awaiting your creative spark. Found only at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite is thought to be 1,000 times rarer than diamonds – a gemstone of a single generation, becoming more precious every day.
On-Site Manufacturing
Our 500 m² production studios showcase all three jewellery-manufacturing processes: traditional handcrafting for one-of-a-kind pieces, CAD design using state-of-the-art computers and 3D printers, and lost-wax casting. This unique blend of artistry and technology gives us the fastest turnaround time in Cape Town for luxury jewellery crafted to international standards.
Ethical Sourcing
All our gemstones are sourced from reputable mines to ensure they are ethically mined and conflict-free, supporting both local communities and the South African economy.
On-Site Manufacturing
Our 500 m² production studios showcase all three jewellery-manufacturing processes: traditional handcrafting for one-of-a-kind pieces, CAD design using state-of-the-art computers and 3D printers, and lost-wax casting. This unique blend of artistry and technology gives us the fastest turnaround time in Cape Town for luxury jewellery crafted to international standards.
Ethical Sourcing
All our gemstones are sourced from reputable mines to ensure they are ethically mined and conflict-free, supporting both local communities and the South African economy.
Our Collection & Expertise
With more than 4,000 handcrafted pieces featuring Tanzanite, diamonds and coloured gemstones, Afrogem offers Cape Town’s largest range of semi-precious stones. Our goldsmiths work primarily with South African gold, and our custom design capabilities allow you to commission bespoke jewellery that reflects your story, your travels, and your sense of style.
The Afrogem Experience
Afrogem pioneered Cape Town’s jewellery manufacturing tour, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at all three manufacturing processes. Your visit begins with our private collection of semi-precious stones, followed by a glimpse into our CAD design process and gold-smelting area, where you’ll see our craftsmen setting gems into elegant jewellery.
The tour concludes in our opulent showroom, where you can explore our range of jewellery, loose gems and curios. Should you prefer something unique, our unset diamonds, Tanzanites and gemstones can be transformed into custom-made creations. Complimentary refreshments, a lecture and a small souvenir complete the experience.
Tours can only be booked through your hotel concierge, registered tour guide or tour leader, ensuring the security and exclusivity of our clientele.
Our Location & Accessibility
Afrogem is conveniently located at 181 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town, halfway between the V&A Waterfront and the Table Mountain Cable Car Station. We are open for trade and international tours with flexible operating hours Monday to Sunday (full and reduced tours available).
Quality & Value Promise
Every gemstone at Afrogem is hand-selected by our experienced gemologists, ensuring both the sentimental and financial value of your investment. With international shipping capabilities and decades of expertise, we guarantee exceptional quality, ethical sourcing and timeless designs that will become treasured heirlooms.
Our Location & Accessibility
Afrogem is conveniently located at 181 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town, halfway between the V&A Waterfront and the Table Mountain Cable Car Station. We are open for trade and international tours with flexible operating hours Monday to Sunday (full and reduced tours available).
Quality & Value Promise
Every gemstone at Afrogem is hand-selected by our experienced gemologists, ensuring both the sentimental and financial value of your investment. With international shipping capabilities and decades of expertise, we guarantee exceptional quality, ethical sourcing and timeless designs that will become treasured heirlooms.
Discover Afrogem for yourself
Book your factory tour through your hotel concierge or registered tour guide, or schedule a private design consultation at our showroom. Explore our collections online or contact us directly to create your own bespoke piece of African gemstone jewellery.