Shimansky, South Africa’s diamond pioneer

World-first diamond cuts, rare Tanzanite, and immersive Cape Town experiences

Last updated: Monday, 22 December 2025

Some of the world’s most brilliant diamond cuts were born in South Africa. They reflect more light. They changed the way diamonds are seen. Shimansky is the name behind them.

A rare uncut diamond and a Shimansky polished diamond. Image: Shimansky

THE ORIGIN OF SHIMANSKY

The Shimansky story began in 1991.

Founder and CEO Yair Shimansky arrived in South Africa after two years in Japan. There, he studied diamond optics and the science of light. He was also shaped by Japanese culture. “The Japanese spend years perfecting one skill,” he says. “If you taste sushi made by a master, you understand the difference.”

Yair began by designing jewellery and selling it at a flea market. Soon after, he opened a small store in a shopping centre.

Today, Shimansky is internationally recognised. The brand is anchored by its flagship boutique at the V&A Waterfront and its immersive diamond experiences in Cape Town.

A rare uncut diamond examined by Shimansky artisans before its transformation begins. Image: Shimansky

ETHICALLY SOURCED DIAMONDS, MASTERFULLY CRAFTED

Every Shimansky diamond is ethically sourced from South African mines. Each one is cut and polished in Shimansky’s Cape Town workshop. Most jewellers outsource this work. Shimansky does not.

This start-to-finish approach ensures quality at every step. It also allows master artisans to shape diamonds for maximum brilliance. “When something is handcrafted, part of the maker’s soul goes into it,” says Yair. “That feeling cannot be mass-produced.”

Shimansky is one of the few jewellers licensed to buy and polish rough diamonds. This rare privilege allows full control, from mine to masterpiece. Learn more in our guide to choosing a good diamond.

Shimansky’s signature diamond cuts, each crafted to maximise light, brilliance, and beauty. Image: Shimansky

ICONIC SHIMANSKY PATENTS   

Many Shimansky designs are world-first patented diamond cuts. Each is created in-house, from concept to completion.

MILLENNIUM RING

South Africa’s most Iconic diamond ring. Contemporary by design. When less is more. Two bands represent two lives. One diamond unites them. The diamond appears to float, yet it is securely held through precise engineering. A perfect balance of emotion and design.

Made to order in platinum and gold. Shop the Millennium collection.

The Shimansky Millennium Diamond Ring. Image: Shimansky

BRILLIANT 10

The Brilliant 10 features 71 precisely aligned facets. This design delivers unmatched sparkle.

It reflects up to 25% more light than a standard round brilliant. Light leakage is almost zero. It is widely recognised as the most brilliant diamond cut in the world, with perfectly visible hearts and an arrow pattern.

Shop the Brilliant 10 jewellery collection.

The Brilliant 10® Diamond, a Shimansky patented diamond cut. Image: Shimansky

MY GIRL DIAMOND 

The My Girl diamond is the first internationally patented diamond cut from South Africa. Its signature feature is a diamond-shaped table. This design captures light from every angle and every movement.

Only a small number of rough diamonds qualify. Up to half the stone is removed to achieve its exceptional sparkle. My Girl diamonds are set into rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants.

They mark life’s most meaningful moments. You can view these world-first designs at Shimansky’s Cape Town showrooms.

Shop the My Girl Jewellery.

The iconic My Girl® diamond, a Shimansky patented diamond cut. Image: Shimansky

A TRIBUTE TO CAPE TOWN  

The Largest ring in the world, spanning over 3m. Visit the site for an iconic photo moment creating memories for life. Situated in the Clock Tower precinct, between the Zeitz Museum and the Clock Tower. Find its location.

The Iconic Cape Town Diamond art installation, at the Clock Tower precinct. Image: Shimansky

CAPE TOWN RING  

Made from South Africa’s beautiful treasures, gold and diamonds, the unique Cape Town Ring is truly a South African keepsake. Share the love for Cape Town wherever you go. Made in Silver or Gold

Shop the Cape Town Ring.

The Iconic Cape Town ring, made in gold with a diamond. Image: Shimansky

TABLE MOUNTAIN RING

Inspired by the mountain’s iconic silhouette. Set with 1 diamond and 27 pavé diamonds. Available in silver and white, yellow, or rose gold. Visitors choice for the best gift and self purchase.

Shop the Table Mountain Ring.

The Iconic Table Mountain Ring, a Shimansky original design. Image: Shimansky

TANZANITE: RARER THAN DIAMONDS

Shimansky is home to exceptional Tanzanite jewellery.

Tanzanite is 1,000 times rarer than diamonds. It is found in only one place on Earth. Its colour is deep blue with flashes of violet. Its supply is limited and expected to run out within this century.

Each Shimansky Tanzanite is selected for colour, clarity, and vibrancy. Every stone is cut and polished to perfection and set in-house to reveal its full beauty. Shop Tanzanite Jewellery.

Tanzanite jewellery by Shimansky 1000’s designs to choose from. Image: Shimansky

SHIMANSKY DIAMOND EXPERIENCES

One of Cape Town’s favorite destinations.

The Shimansky Diamond Experience: Learn the history of South African diamonds. Watch diamonds being cut and polished. Enjoy a private jewellery consultation. Complementary South African wine. Chauffeur transport to and from the Shimansky Experience.

Book your Diamond Experience.

Experience South African diamonds and visit the Cape Town Diamond Museum. Image: Shimansky

VISIT SHIMANSKY

Shimansky’s journey is defined by dedication, craftsmanship, and vision.

• Most trusted jewelers in South Africa.
• An authentic mine-to-finger diamond journey.
• GIA certified diamonds.
• Diamond cutting and polishing on premises.
• Jewelry design and manufacturing on premises.
• VAT / TAX free shopping.
• Award winning jewelry designs.
• Unique patented cut diamonds.
• Top recommendation by world wide visitors.
• Top ranking on Tripadvisor and Google Reviews.

Book your visit: Shimansky's website
Locations: Shop 7228, V&A Waterfront | The Clock Tower, Waterfront | The Rockwell, Green Point
Connect: 082 888 8888, @shimanskyjewellery, Shimansky's website

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MORE ON DIAMONDS 

Everything you need to know about buying diamonds in our guide. 

Have you ever visited The Cape Town Diamond Museum? 

There’s sparkling jewellery & luxury finishes at Shimansky’s V&A boutique.

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