JEWELLERY Manufacturing
Diamond Jewellery Manufacturing
At The Diamond Works, crafting jewellery is more than just a business—it’s a tradition of artistry and careful craftsmanship. Our team understands how personal and meaningful a piece of jewellery can be, whether it’s a custom engagement ring, a solitaire diamond ring, or a necklace symbolising a special milestone. When you work with us, you’re getting a team with strong roots in the world of fine jewellery manufacturing—a team that takes immense pride in creating pieces that resonate deeply with their owners.
Tailored jewellery manufacturing just for you
We’ve built our brand by focusing on what you need. Maybe you’re envisioning a striking custom diamond ring for a proposal, or perhaps you want to breathe life into a design that’s been in your mind for a while. At The Diamond Works, we tailor every piece so that it truly captures your style and story.
At the heart of this process is our experienced manufacturing team, led by Russell Lavigre, a master goldsmith with nearly three decades of experience. Working alongside him is his son, Nathan Lavigre, who brings his own set of modern skills and innovative thinking. This father-son team blends traditional goldsmith techniques with state-of-the-art technology to deliver stunning results.
The process:
Visit us and be a part of it
What makes The Diamond Works different is how involved you can be in the jewellery-making process. If you’re visiting Cape Town, we invite you to book a slot or simply swing by our showroom. When you arrive, our friendly team will ensure you feel welcome and comfortable. Whether you have questions about designing your own diamond ring or just want to browse our existing selection, we’re here to help.
A unique part of the experience is our Diamond Cutting and Manufacturing Workshop. You’ll get a peek behind the scenes. Our skilled artisans are always happy to explain their techniques and walk you through the process. You might even catch Russell or Nathan at work, applying their decades of knowledge to craft custom diamond rings or other pieces.
It’s a collaborative process from start to finish. You’ll consult with one of our jewellery or diamond experts, like GIA-certified gemologist Mark Gieljoumie, to select the perfect stone and materials. We’ll then create a 3D model of your vision, tweaking any details along the way. Once you approve the design, the Lavigre team takes over, carefully crafting every element with precision.
At its core, jewellery making is about trust.
“Our clients trust us to create pieces that they’ll cherish forever, and it’s a responsibility we never take lightly,”
– Russell Lavigre, goldsmith at The Diamond Works.
Trust the heritage behind your jewellery
The foundation of our jewellery manufacturing goes beyond just talent—it’s about our team’s heritage and experience. The Lavigre family has been immersed in the world of goldsmithing and jewellery for generations. This isn’t just a job for them. It’s a legacy. Their passion for creating fine jewellery continues to shape the way we work, ensuring that every piece receives the time, attention, and care it deserves.
The combination of this rich lineage and our integration of CAD technology means that we can always meet our client’s needs. Whether it’s a solitaire diamond ring or an intricately designed pendant, we work to bring both modern innovation and traditional skills together.
What you can expect from your diamond jewellery manufacturing experience
From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be treated like family. Start with a discussion on the piece you’re envisioning—whether it’s a heritage piece you want to redesign or something brand new. We’ll talk through everything, from diamonds to settings to metal options, ensuring you find exactly what fits your vision.
Here’s where it gets exciting—you’re not just visualising the design; you can actually try on the 3D-printed model. The prototype feels real enough to give you a sense of the weight, size, and fit of the final piece. You’ll physically interact with the design, seeing how it fits and how it complements your personal style, making it easy to adjust anything if needed before we begin crafting.
Book a diamond jewellery manufacturing consultation
Book an appointment with our expert diamond jewellers or stop by The Diamond Works. Whether you’re looking to create your own custom diamond ring or simply want to browse through our selection of jewellery, our consultants are ready to help you find or design the perfect piece. We’re excited to welcome you and make you a part of our tradition.
FAQ's
Is South Africa a good place to design a diamond ring?
Yes, South Africa is an excellent destination to design a diamond ring! Known for its rich history in diamond mining, the country is home to premier diamond jewellery designers, like The Diamond Works Institute, where you can work closely with expert artisans to create a custom diamond ring. Our process includes everything from selecting ethically sourced diamonds to trying on 3D-printed prototypes of your design before the final piece is crafted.
How much does a real diamond ring cost in South Africa?
The cost of a natural diamond ring in South Africa can vary widely based on factors such as the size, cut, and quality of the diamond, as well as the complexity of the design. At The Diamond Works Institute, we offer a range of pricing options to fit your preferences and budget.
Can you go to Africa and get diamonds?
Yes, you can visit Africa, particularly places like South Africa, to buy natural diamonds directly from reputable sources. At The Diamond Works Institute in Cape Town, we offer the opportunity to not only purchase certified conflict-free diamonds but also to design your own piece of custom jewellery on-site. If you’re visiting, you can take part in the process and even try on a 3D-printed prototype of your custom diamond ring, all while knowing that the diamonds are ethically sourced, following the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.