February Birthstone: Amethyst — Choosing Colour, Clarity, Cut and a Setting for Everyday Wear
By Riana Courtis Graduate Gemmologist (GIA) and General Manager, Prins & Prins Diamonds Cape Town, South Africa Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. It’s popular because it offers rich colour at an accessible price point, and it’s durable enough for regular wear when it’s set and cared for correctly. Start with colour (because that’s […]
Cloud Dancer: A Study in Quiet White
Cloud Dancer explores white as a deliberate design choice rather than a neutral backdrop. Through soft-toned gemstones, restrained finishes, and thoughtful material selection, the collection reflects a quieter approach to luxury — one that values calm, texture, and subtle distinction over visual excess.
How to Choose, Wear and Care for Garnet Jewellery: Expert Tips from Cape Town’s Master Jewellers
Garnet is prized for its depth of colour and durability, but choosing the right piece — and caring for it correctly — makes all the difference. This guide covers how to select quality garnet jewellery, how to wear it with confidence, and how to keep it looking exceptional for years to come.
From Pharaohs to Modern High Jewellery: The Rich History and Symbolism of Garnet
Garnet has been valued for thousands of years, from ancient civilisations to contemporary fine jewellery. Explore the symbolism, cultural significance, and enduring appeal of this gemstone through history — and why it remains relevant today.
The Spectrum of January’s Birthstone: Exploring Garnet Varieties from Deep Red to Vibrant Green
Garnet is far more than a red gemstone. From deep wine tones to vivid greens, this article explores the remarkable range of garnet varieties, their origins, and what gives each type its distinct character and beauty.
How Pearls Are Formed
Pearls are formed through patience, time, and nature’s quiet precision. From the moment an oyster protects itself by laying down layers of luminous nacre, a pearl begins to take shape. This article explores natural and cultured pearl formation, the role of careful cultivation, and how one of the world’s most enduring jewels slowly comes to life — shaped entirely by the sea.
Engagement Ring Trends for 2026
Engagement ring design is shifting back to meaning, craftsmanship, and longevity. From elongated diamond cuts and antique-inspired details to bold gold settings and a renewed focus on natural diamonds, 2026 signals a return to considered, personal choices. This article explores the key engagement ring trends shaping the year ahead, guided by heritage, expertise, and modern elegance.
Turquoise: The Ancient Guardian Gem Behind December Birthdays
Turquoise is one of the world’s oldest guardian gems, treasured from ancient Egypt to Victorian Europe for its vivid colour and symbolic protection. As one of December’s original birthstones, it carries deep cultural meaning and timeless elegance. This article explores turquoise’s historic legacy, mineralogy, modern symbolism, and how Prins & Prins carefully selects and crafts high-quality turquoise pieces for discerning collectors.
Tanzanite: December’s Rarest Birthstone and the Gem of a Generation
Tanzanite is one of the rarest gems on Earth — found in only one small region near Mount Kilimanjaro and celebrated for its vivid blue–violet pleochroism. As the newest December birthstone, it has become a modern icon of rarity, beauty, and expert craftsmanship. This article explores its extraordinary origin, gemmological character, and how Prins & Prins selects and sets only the finest natural tanzanite for timeless, heritage-inspired jewellery.
December’s Forgotten Gem: Why Zircon Deserves a Second Look
Zircon is one of December’s most misunderstood birthstones, yet it remains one of the oldest and most captivating natural gems on Earth. From its origins in ancient Sri Lankan and Australian deposits to its vivid pleochroic fire, zircon offers collectors a rare blend of geological history and refined beauty. This article explores the gem’s symbolism, optical character, and the meticulous way Prins & Prins selects and sets high-quality natural zircon in timeless designs.
Why Major Auction Houses Reject Lab-Grown Diamonds
As lab-grown diamonds flood the market, their value continues to fall — and the world’s leading auction houses have taken notice. In this article, Dr Petre Prins explains why Christie’s and Sotheby’s refuse to accept lab-grown diamonds, what this means for long-term value, and why natural diamonds remain the only choice for collectors, investors and those seeking enduring significance.
Vintage Jewellery: A Sustainable Choice with Timeless Value
Vintage jewellery offers something rare in the modern world — timeless craftsmanship, authentic character and a more sustainable way to invest in beauty. In this article, Dr Petre Prins explores why vintage pieces remain so valuable today, how restoration and repurposing breathe new life into heirlooms, and why choosing vintage is one of the most meaningful choices a jewellery lover can make.
PEARLS: The Queen of Gems
Pearls have captivated civilisations for thousands of years — from ancient royalty to modern collectors. In this article, Dr Petre Prins explores the remarkable journey of pearls, their cultural significance, and the distinct qualities of Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and freshwater varieties. Discover how pearls are formed, what makes each type unique, and how to choose the right pearl for your style and occasion.
How to Choose a Coloured Gemstone for Your Engagement Ring
Choosing a coloured gemstone for your engagement ring is as much about personal meaning as it is about beauty. From the timeless brilliance of diamond to the vivid allure of sapphire, ruby, and garnet, each gemstone carries its own character, symbolism, and durability. Guided by expert gemmological insight, this article explores the finest natural gemstones suited for lifelong wear — and highlights those better reserved for occasional pieces. Discover how to choose a gem that reflects your story, your style, and the significance of your commitment.
Gifting the Sun: Why Topaz and Citrine Are the Ultimate November Luxury Gifts
Warm, radiant, and timeless — November’s birthstones, Imperial Topaz and Fine Citrine, embody the golden light of Cape Town’s summer. Each gem captures the joy of giving and the elegance of natural beauty, making them perfect expressions of gratitude and celebration. Discover how these luminous jewels, crafted within the heritage atelier of Huguenot House, become gifts that endure through generations.