Tinsel Gallery's new space brings a touch of sparkle to Melville, Joburg

When Tinsel first opened at Melville’s Bamboo Lifestyle Centre in 2006, it put the spotlight on South African contemporary jewellery like no one had before. It stocked the work of 50-odd jewellers back then and did an awful lot in promoting the genre of craftsmanship.

Fourteen years and various iterations of the brand later, and Tinsel is back in the centre — just in a bigger and slicker space that’s a sophisticated but welcoming treat. Owners Geraldine Fenn and Eric Loubser are, of course, two of the country’s leading contemporary jewellers themselves, and you’ll find their working studio in this new spot too. With its ochre walls, dashes of moody blues and top contemporary art dotting the interior, it’s an, erm, jewel box of beautiful things and smart ideas.

The gallery portion of the space sells their exceptional work, plus a curated selection of artfully handmade pieces by 15 other top jewellers, including Songezo Baleni, Nicky Savage, and Ashley Heather. They’ll also be hosting exhibitions, so watch out for those. Pop in to browse, buy, and learn a thing or two from Fenn and Loubser, who are always happy to chat about their fascinating and really cool day jobs.

• Corner Rustenburg Road and 9th Street, Melville.

• From the September issue of Wanted 2020.