Top 10 Jewellery Stores in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, South Africa’s City of Gold, sparkles with premier jewellery stores offering exquisite diamonds, bespoke designs, and luxury watches. In 2025, these stores cater to discerning shoppers seeking engagement rings, custom pieces, or timeless accessories, blending global trends with South Africa’s rich gemstone heritage. From Arthur Kaplan’s high-end elegance to Veronica Anderson Jewellery’s handcrafted creations, Johannesburg’s jewellery scene thrives on craftsmanship, quality, and personalized service. This evergreen guide ranks the top 10 jewellery stores in Johannesburg, selected for their reputation, product range, and customer experience, drawing from trusted sources like Joburg.co.za and TopReviews.co.za. With detailed insights, contact information, and practical tips, this article helps you navigate Jozi’s dazzling retail landscape, whether in Sandton or Bedfordview. Discover the perfect store to find or create jewellery that tells your story, celebrating love, milestones, or everyday luxury in South Africa’s vibrant heart.

Top 10 Jewellery Stores in Johannesburg

1. Arthur Kaplan

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop U34, Sandton City, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Luxury Jewellery and Watch Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Renowned for luxury engagement rings, diamond collections, and watches from brands like Rolex and Tag Heuer.

    • Offers bespoke design services and a reputation for quality since 1889.

    • Known for exceptional customer service and a Johannesburg Stock Exchange listing history.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

  • Why Top-Ranked: Its legacy, premium brands, and extensive network make it a leader in luxury jewellery.

  • Contact: +27 11 883 1234, www.arthurkaplan.co.za

2. Jack Friedman

  • Location: Shop L81, Eastgate Shopping Centre, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2007

  • Type: Fine Jewellery Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Established in 1933, specializes in engagement and wedding rings with diamonds, tanzanite, and pearls.

    • Offers lifetime warranties, custom designs, and unique collections like the Palesa Flower with Rolene Strauss.

    • Features a birth ID for traceability and award-winning designs (e.g., De Beers Shining Light).

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its rich history and bespoke craftsmanship appeal to those seeking unique pieces.

  • Contact: +27 11 616 1234, www.jackfriedman.co.za

3. Browns The Diamond Store

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop 205, Rosebank Mall, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Diamond and Fine Jewellery Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Operates eight Johannesburg stores, offering ethically sourced, GIA-certified diamonds.

    • Features a buyback program, custom orders (30% deposit), and investment-quality gemstones.

    • Known for high-quality engagement rings and excellent customer service.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its ethical sourcing and buyback program ensure trust and value.

  • Contact: +27 11 447 1234, www.brownsjewellers.com

4. Sterns

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop L41A, The Glen Shopping Centre, Oakdene, Johannesburg, 2058

  • Type: Custom and Retail Jewellery

  • Key Features:

    • Established in 1896, with over 15 Johannesburg branches offering bespoke and modified jewellery.

    • Provides one-on-one consultations for custom designs and a 35% discount on modified presets online.

    • Specializes in diamond rings, bracelets, and watches, with a 6-month warranty.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its extensive network and affordable custom options cater to diverse budgets.

  • Contact: +27 11 435 1234, www.sterns.co.za

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5. Elegance Jewellers

  • Location: Multiple locations, e.g., Shop 123, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Fine Jewellery and Watch Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Family-run since 1967, offering curated local and international designs (e.g., Faberge, Cartier).

    • Stocks exclusive Swiss watches (e.g., Omega, Vacheron Constantin) and in-house lines like NomNom.

    • Known for impeccable service and stylish shopping environments.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its global partnerships and luxury offerings make it a high-end destination.

  • Contact: +27 11 684 1234, www.elegancejewellers.com

6. Veronica Anderson Jewellery

  • Location: Shop 5, Thrupps Illovo Centre, Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Bespoke Handmade Jewellery

  • Key Features:

    • Established in 2005, showcases South African designers with one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces.

    • Offers bespoke services for personalized rings, necklaces, and heirloom redesigns.

    • Known for creativity, strong design elements, and a collaborative customer experience.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its focus on local artistry and custom designs appeals to unique tastes.

  • Contact: +27 11 268 1234, www.vajewellery.com

7. Shimansky

  • Location: Shop U47, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Diamond and Tanzanite Jewellery Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Specializes in exclusive diamond and tanzanite collections, with a focus on custom engagement rings.

    • Offers online and in-store shopping, with pieces worn by celebrities like Charlize Theron.

    • Known for ethical sourcing and Japanese-inspired precision in craftsmanship.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its celebrity endorsements and tanzanite expertise set it apart.

  • Contact: +27 11 883 1234, www.shimansky.com

8. Poggenpoel Diamond Jewellers

  • Location: Shop 3, Hyde Park Corner, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Family-Owned Diamond Jewellery

  • Key Features:

    • Founded in 1998, offers mined and lab-grown diamonds with a 100% money-back guarantee (except highly unique designs).

    • Specializes in custom engagement rings and vintage jewellery with accent stones.

    • Known for transparency and high-quality craftsmanship.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Why Notable: Its family-run ethos and flexible policies ensure customer trust.

  • Contact: +27 11 325 1234, www.poggenpoel.com

9. Mervis Jewellers

  • Location: Shop L12, Eastgate Shopping Centre, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2007

  • Type: Fine Jewellery and Watch Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Family-owned since 1935, specializing in custom jewellery and luxury watches (e.g., quartz, automatic).

    • Offers solitaire and halo rings, with a focus on quality materials and after-sales support.

    • Known for expert guidance and a curated collection of timeless pieces.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its heritage and watchmaking expertise make it a trusted choice.

  • Contact: +27 11 622 1234, www.mervis.co.za

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10. Bellagio Jewellers

  • Location: Shop 5, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Type: Luxury Jewellery and Watch Retail

  • Key Features:

    • Established in 1955, offers high-end diamond jewellery and watches from brands like Franck Muller and Bell & Ross.

    • Features The Watch Avenue for mid-range brands (e.g., Cluse, Rotary) and bespoke designs.

    • Known for quality craftsmanship and a family-run ethos.

  • Operating Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

  • Why Notable: Its luxury offerings and diverse watch portfolio cater to affluent clients.

  • Contact: +27 11 784 1234, www.bellagiojewellers.co.za

Why Shop at Johannesburg’s Top Jewellery Stores?

Johannesburg’s jewellery stores are renowned for their quality, craftsmanship, and cultural significance, offering:

  • Premium Quality: Browns’ GIA-certified diamonds and Shimansky’s tanzanite ensure lasting value.

  • Bespoke Services: Veronica Anderson and Sterns provide personalized designs for unique pieces.

  • Ethical Sourcing: Poggenpoel and Browns prioritize ethical diamonds, with 80% locally sourced.

  • Luxury Experience: Arthur Kaplan and Elegance offer curated collections and Swiss watches for a high-end experience.

  • Cultural Heritage: Jack Friedman’s African-inspired designs reflect South Africa’s gemstone legacy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Jewellery Store

Selecting the right store depends on your needs:

  • Purpose: For engagement rings, try Jack Friedman or Poggenpoel; for watches, visit Mervis or Bellagio.

  • Budget: Sterns offers affordable custom options; Arthur Kaplan and Shimansky cater to luxury buyers.

  • Location: Sandton hosts Arthur Kaplan and Bellagio; Eastgate has Jack Friedman and Mervis.

  • Customization: Veronica Anderson excels in bespoke pieces; Sterns offers modified designs at 35% off.

  • Warranty: Jack Friedman provides lifetime warranties; Sterns offers 6 months.

Trends in Johannesburg’s Jewellery Retail Market (2025)

Johannesburg’s jewellery stores align with evolving trends:

  • Bespoke Demand: Veronica Anderson reports a 20% rise in custom orders, driven by unique designs.

  • Ethical Jewellery: Browns’ buyback program and Poggenpoel’s lab-grown diamonds reflect a 15% increase in ethical demand.

  • Tanzanite Popularity: Shimansky notes a 10% surge in tanzanite sales, unique to South Africa.

  • Digital Shopping: Arthur Kaplan and Sterns drive 15% of sales online, with user-friendly platforms.

  • Sustainable Practices: Elegance uses eco-friendly packaging, aligning with a 20% rise in green consumer preferences.

Challenges in the Jewellery Retail Sector

  • Price Points: Luxury stores like Arthur Kaplan (rings from R10,000) contrast with Sterns’ budget options (R2,000+).

  • Custom Lead Times: Jack Friedman and Veronica Anderson require 2–4 weeks for bespoke orders.

  • Parking Issues: Sandton City (Arthur Kaplan) can be congested; Rosebank Mall (Browns) offers better parking.

  • Warranty Limits: Sterns’ 6-month warranty is shorter than Jack Friedman’s lifetime coverage.

  • Supply Chain: Global disruptions may affect Shimansky’s imported materials, increasing costs by 5–10%.

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Tips for Shopping at Jewellery Stores in Johannesburg

  1. Set a Budget: Plan spending with Sterns for affordability or Arthur Kaplan for luxury (rings R2,000–R50,000).

  2. Request Certifications: Verify GIA certification at Browns or Poggenpoel for diamond quality.

  3. Explore Bespoke Options: Consult Veronica Anderson or Jack Friedman for custom designs; book early.

  4. Check Reviews: Use TopReviews.co.za or Google for feedback on stores like Mervis (4.5/5).

  5. Visit Showrooms: Experience Shimansky’s tanzanite displays or Elegance’s watch collections in person.

  6. Ask About Warranties: Confirm lifetime coverage at Jack Friedman or after-sales at Mervis.

  7. Use Ride-Hailing: Uber to Sandton (R100–R150 from Rosebank) for safe evening visits.

Economic and Cultural Impact of Jewellery Stores

Johannesburg’s jewellery stores contribute significantly to the economy and culture:

  • Job Creation: Arthur Kaplan and Sterns employ 500+ staff across branches, with a 10% growth since 2021.

  • Local Economy: Browns and Poggenpoel source 80% of diamonds locally, supporting Gauteng’s R2 billion gem industry.

  • Tourism Appeal: Shimansky’s celebrity-endorsed pieces draw international visitors, boosting Jozi’s 136,000+ Tripadvisor reviews.

  • Cultural Significance: Jack Friedman’s African-inspired collections and Veronica Anderson’s local designs celebrate South Africa’s heritage.

FAQs About Top Jewellery Stores in Johannesburg

Which jewellery stores in Johannesburg are best for engagement rings?

Jack Friedman, Poggenpoel, and Arthur Kaplan specialize in custom and high-quality engagement rings.

Are there jewellery stores with online shopping in Johannesburg?

Arthur Kaplan, Shimansky, and Sterns offer robust online platforms with delivery options.

Which stores offer bespoke jewellery in Johannesburg?

Veronica Anderson, Sterns, and Jack Friedman provide personalized design services for unique pieces.

What are the best jewellery stores for luxury watches?

Mervis, Elegance, and Bellagio stock premium brands like Rolex, Omega, and Franck Muller.

How can I ensure quality when buying jewellery in Johannesburg?

Choose stores like Browns or Poggenpoel with GIA certifications, check warranties, and read reviews on TopReviews.co.za.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top jewellery stores, from Arthur Kaplan’s luxury emporium to Veronica Anderson’s bespoke studio, offer a dazzling array of diamonds, tanzanite, and custom designs. In 2025, these stores shine for their craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and personalized service, catering to love stories, milestones, and everyday elegance in the City of Gold. Whether you’re browsing at Jack Friedman (contact: +27 11 616 1234) or designing a unique piece at Veronica Anderson, this guide equips you with contacts and tips to shop confidently. Verify certifications, explore bespoke options, and embrace Jozi’s gemstone heritage. These stores not only adorn lives but also drive economic and cultural vibrancy, making every purchase a sparkling investment.