Behind every jewel,
a real person.
Gemmologists, goldsmiths and consultants who design, grade and finish every commission.
Experts at your Service.
The gemmologists, goldsmiths and consultants behind every item that leaves Huguenot House. One standard, one family-run house since 1982.
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FounderDr Petré Prins
PhD Geochemistry · MBA · Cambridge · Stellenbosch
Dr Prins studied geology and geochemistry at Stellenbosch University and completed postgraduate research at Cambridge, before returning to South Africa as senior lecturer in geology and mineralogy at Stellenbosch.
He completed his MBA in 1979, joined Octha Diamonds in 1980, and registered Prins & Prins in 1982. Dr Prins is respected for his expertise and the author of three industry handbooks.
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General ManagerRiana Courtis
GIA Graduate Gemologist · New York · Mumbai · London
Riana is closely involved in the evaluation and procurement of natural diamonds, pearls and coloured gemstones.
She oversees daily operations, supports client consultations, and assures that gemmological standards, workshop execution and client expectations remain aligned.
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Sales & MarketingStéfan Doveton
GIA · EGL · Corlia Roberts Diamond College
Stéfan joined Prins & Prins in 2012 and has a loyal national and international client base.
He is also an accomplished classical musician who has studied in Europe and the United States.
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Senior ConsultantLeonard Arendt
GIA Applied Jewelry Professional
His motto: “In sales, be yourself, be honest, and retain your client's trust. Honesty remains the most important ingredient.”
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Senior ConsultantStacey-Leigh de Kock
EGL Diamond Grading Diploma
Her precision is matched by a calm assurance as she guides clients in choosing diamonds and fine jewellery.
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Front OfficeKim Smith
MSITA
Kim oversees front-of-house operations while coordinating workshop administration, ensuring that daily processes run smoothly and efficiently. Since joining the company in 2019, her professionalism, warmth and attention to detail have made her an indispensable part of the team.
What you may want to know before you book.
The questions our team hears most, answered plainly.
Can your team design a custom piece for me?
Yes, bespoke commissions are the centre of what we do. Our consultants and goldsmiths in Cape Town design pieces tailored to your style, occasion and stone. Many of our designers have won prestigious awards, including first place in the PlatAfrica jewellery design competition.
What is the advantage of working with an in-house team like yours?
You get decades of expertise, exceptional craftsmanship and personalised service from people who actually meet you. The gemmologist who grades your stone, the consultant who guides your design and the goldsmith who finishes the piece all work on the same floor of Huguenot House. Nothing is outsourced.
How do I begin the process of having a custom piece designed?
Book a private consultation. We discuss your ideas, vision and preferences in one of our private viewing rooms inside Huguenot House, usually over coffee. From there we sketch, source the stone, and you sign off every step before the metal is cut.
Can the team work with my own materials, heirloom stones, old gold?
Yes. We routinely incorporate clients' own gemstones, heirloom pieces and sentimental materials into new designs. Re-setting an heirloom diamond into a contemporary engagement ring is one of our most common commissions.
How long does the custom design process take?
Most custom pieces are complete within 2 to 3 weeks of stone confirmation. Complex commissions, pavé halos, articulated necklaces, multi-stone redesigns, can take longer. We always agree the timeline with you up front.
Can I request changes during the design process?
Yes, at every stage. You see the sketch, you see the wax, you see the CAD render before any casting is committed. Our goldsmiths are deeply involved in client revisions because, in our experience, the final piece is the one you'll love.
Is there a minimum budget for bespoke commissions?
We cater to a range of budgets. The consultation itself is complimentary and we will be honest with you about what is achievable at your number before anything is cast.
Do you grade and certify diamonds I already own?
Yes. Our on-site gem laboratory is run by GIA-trained gemmologists. We grade and identify natural diamonds, coloured stones and pearls, and can arrange independent EGL certification when a third-party document is required.
Do you re-size, repair or restore existing jewellery?
Yes. Our goldsmiths handle ring re-sizing, claw re-tipping, stone replacement and full restoration of antique and inherited jewellery. We assess each piece in the workshop and quote before any work begins.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We arrange fully insured international courier with full customs documentation. Many of our overseas clients begin the commission remotely and collect in Cape Town on a planned visit; others have the finished piece delivered to their door.
Can I bring a partner, family member or friend to the consultation?
Of course. Our private viewing rooms comfortably seat up to four. Most clients bring a partner, parent or close friend, particularly for engagement and milestone pieces, and we welcome the second opinion.
Where do I find the team?
Inside Huguenot House, 66 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre. Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 17:00; Saturday, 09:00 to 13:00. Closed: Sundays and Public Holidays. Viewings are by appointment so we can give you the private room, book ahead.