Hey all,
I have a super-cool wife who has been amazingly understanding and tolerant of my travel. As a token of appreciation, I wanted to buy her a diamond (maybe earrings) when I was in Jo'burg. I have not bought a diamond since her wedding ring and that was a nightmare (luckily I have some $$ saved). BUT can you actually buy diamonds at a decent price in SA? I know they are usually cut elsewhere, so I have no idea if buying in Jo'burg is a deal or like buying in London or NYC. I AM smart enough not to buy from a dude on the street, a guy who's brother runs a gem shop, a homeless man, or a tuk-tuk driver (joke). Can anyone make any recommendations or let me know if I should just wait till I get home and deal with it there.
Thanks much for any advice.
Hey there,
I'm a receiiver rather than a giver of diamonds, but my impression is that gems and platinum are certainly a lot cheaper here than in the UK (and I assume US), and friends who have been out here on holiday anfd looked around for good earring pricing have confirmed this.
There are some very good private guys, but like you, we preferred to go for a store and a brand. Head to Sandton City and shop around. There are so many jewellers there its very easy to do price comparison and haggle - some good options are Shimansky (gorgeous local designer and v. v. high quality), Charles Greig (ditto) and Browns (decent quality, and nearly always seems to have a sale on). Please don't rule out your hotel boutique - I know it sounds crazy, but a friend I was shopping for diamond earrings with, found the best deal at the Hilton shop!
Enjoy, am sure your wife will!
trusted partner
