Joel Graham is the hands behind Cape Diamonds.
Joel originates from Hogsback, a small town in the Eastern Cape, surrounded by indigenous forest. His close relationship to nature is evident in the design of his jewellery pieces.
Joel completed his degree in Jewellery Design and Manufacture at Natal University of Technology. Expanding his experience, he moved to the United Kingdom and worked alongside some of the greatest jewellery designers and goldsmiths with outlets in Bond Street and Harrods fine jewellery room.
These included Barbara Tipple, record-breaking winner of 4 De Beers International Jewellery Design Awards. Working with Barbara and her husband, the world-renowned silversmith, David Ward, Joel learned both new and ancient jewellery techniques, such as reposé, hand engraving, anti-clastic raising, and pavé setting. Joel has 20 years experience in creating jewellery and has been sponsored by Anglo Platinum to give lectures on working with platinum and on handmade jewellery techniques to students at Stellenbosch University.
In 2019 he was selected by Anglo Platinum to judge their Plat Africa 2019 annual jewellery design awards. He specialises in working with platinum, gold, white gold, and palladium, and in setting precious stones.
Q&A with Joel
Q: What inspired you to start Cape Diamonds?
A: Growing up in Hogsback and having fine artists as parents enriched my childhood years. As a child, I was always captivated by nature’s design. I played outside in the surrounding forests, creating things from natural materials. My love for art, design, and craftsmanship developed throughout my youth when I did clay firing, painting, and woodcarving, and this developed into working creatively with gemstones and precious metals.
Q: What is the idea behind the Soul Ring?
A: The Soul Ring collection, exclusive to Cape Diamonds, builds on the idea that love is a spiritual as well as material connection. The ring has a sleek and minimalist design and appeals to clients who like clean lines and have modern taste.
The Soul Ring is unique and resembles Joel’s creative eye for authenticity and craftmanship. It will always remain one of the most special rings to him.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: I love hiking in the mountains around Cape Town or relaxing on the beautiful beaches, appreciating nature. I have a strong connection with wild animals due to my rural forest upbringing.
This incredible video of Joel offering a wild goose some water on the beach in Cape Town has gone viral. During this time Cape Town was suffering a severe water crisis and this video inspired many people to put water out for the wild animals. My friend captured the moment and the video went viral, reaching over 450 000 views. News 24 reported that the video highlighted “the Cape drought’s impact on all living beings.” –https://www.news24.com/
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