Cape Town Diamond Museum
Cape Town Diamond Museum
Cape Town Diamond Museum
4.6
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
About
The Cape Town Diamond Museum pays tribute to the world's most precious gem, the diamond. Discover a 3 billion year old story unfold from a diamond's formation to the final polished stone. The Cape Town Diamond Museum also pays homage to the most famous South African diamonds and showcases specimens of Kimberlite rock dating billions of years old. Situated in the bustling heart of the Clock Tower precinct at the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Town Diamond Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Cape Town. Book in advance recommended.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Cape Town Diamond Museum
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
994 within 5 kms
Attractions
230 within 10 kms
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.6
966 reviews
Excellent
717
Very good
146
Average
66
Poor
24
Terrible
13
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
Kat
Amsterdam, The Netherlands8 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
Cool museum about the diamond industry. Interesting presentation by Juan. We also had a laugh. The museum ends in the Shimansky shop where diamonds and Tanzanite jewellery are on sale. Unfortunately we went on Saturday so the work place where diamants are cut was closed. Overall very cool experience.
Written 28 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello!
Thank you for visiting The Cape Town Diamond Museum and for sharing your experience with us, especially your kind words about Juan.
We are delighted that you found the tour informative and entertaining. Our team strives to create a welcoming atmosphere for all of our guests.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 24 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Belinda D
4 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
We booked the tour the day before at the reception and were advised when big groups were visiting, and when the craftsmen would be working. Our tour went exactly on time Imraan was our guide, he was excellent, he talked us through the whole diamond process and was incredibly interesting. The history is fascinating and the jewels are spectacular. I loved trying on some of pieces at the end of the tour, with a complimentary glass of bubbly. Definitely worth a visit, whether you plan to buy beautiful jewellery or just for the experience.
Written 22 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for visiting Shimansky and for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear that you thoroughly enjoyed your time with us. It is our pleasure hosting decerning guests such as yourself. We appreciate your kind words about your guide, Imraan. He is a true gem!
Thank you for your recommendation. Whenever you find yourself back in Cape Town, please stop by to indulge in the finest coffee in town while admiring our iconic collections of diamond and tanzanite jewellery.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 23 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SWilliams1962
Tulsa, OK161 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
The company was very responsive when I enquired about a tour and were able to change the time at pretty short notice when we had scheduling issues which was very much appreciated. Sandy Lee Pan was our tour guide and our jewelry consultant. The museum tour lasted 45 minutes and far exceeded my expectations, My husband and I learned a lot about diamonds and were they come from and how they are mined. Ms. Pan conducted the tour as if it was the first time she had done it and was fully engaged and able and willing to answer questions. At the end of the tour is the Shimansky jewelry showroom. We were able to see the jewelry being made and the stones being polished. I really appreciated the fact that it wasn't a high pressure sales pitch although many people were purchasing beautiful pieces of jewelry. I would highly recommend this tour. Ms. Pan is an asset to Shimansky Diamond museum for sure!
Written 25 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, thank you for visiting our Cape Town Museum and Showroom and for sharing your experience with us.
We are delighted to hear that you appreciate our jewellery and the exceptional service provided by Sandy. It is our absolute pleasure to introduce the fascinating history of South African Diamond mining to decerning guests such as yourself.
We strive to deliver world-class service, and Sandy's dedication to you is a testament to our commitment.
We appreciate your recommendation and we look forward to welcoming you back online again soon.
Best regards,
The Shimansky Team
Written 28 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael S
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • Couples
The small museum is really worth seeing! It is located a bit hidden in a shopping mall and the visit is always as a guided tour. There were two of us and Constance was a great guide! From the history of diamond mining, Cecil Rhodes and De Beers, to perfect replicas of world-renowned diamonds, there is plenty to see. Also beautiful is a dress by Charlize Theron that she wore to the Oscars. In gratitude for the diamond jewelry Shimansky lent her for the occasion, she gave her dress to the museum.
After the tour there is a look at the workshop and the current jewellery collection of Shimansky. You can also buy the jewelry but there is no pressure to do that at all. On the contrary, Constance took her favorite pieces from the display cases for my wife (desperately wanted to see an Asscher cut diamond) that you cannot afford as a “normal mortal”. But it was great to see them and as Constance said “You don’t have to own it” it’s already fun to see the sparkling diamonds live.
After the tour there is a look at the workshop and the current jewellery collection of Shimansky. You can also buy the jewelry but there is no pressure to do that at all. On the contrary, Constance took her favorite pieces from the display cases for my wife (desperately wanted to see an Asscher cut diamond) that you cannot afford as a “normal mortal”. But it was great to see them and as Constance said “You don’t have to own it” it’s already fun to see the sparkling diamonds live.
Automatically translated
Written 28 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello Michael,
Thank you for visiting The Cape Town Diamond Museum and for sharing your experience with us.
We are so happy to hear that Constance made your visit so special! She is passionate about sharing the story of diamonds and loves introducing visitors to our exclusive collections.
It is wonderful to know that you were able to see the Asscher cut diamond up close. We hope you will cherish the memory of that sparkling moment.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 29 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Trek25669352913
2 contributions
May 2024 • Family
The Diamond museum was very interesting and gave a good overview of the history of diamonds in South Africa. Robynne was our guide and she was very knowledgeable. She took us on a journey of the diamond telling us about the history, the difference between diamonds, how they are crafted and polished. The tour ends in the jewelry store where you can try on beautiful pieces with no pressure to buy. It was a great experience and highly recommend doing this while in Cape Town
Written 22 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for visiting our Cape Town Diamond Museum and sharing your experience.
It is delightful to hear that you enjoyed your experience learning about the history of diamonds in South Africa.
We are proud to have Robynne on our team, she is a true gem. We strive to create memorable experiences for all our guests, and your review lets us know we succeeded!
Best regards,
The Shimansky Team
Written 24 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Explore24401415384
1 contribution
Oct 2024 • Friends
This was probably one of the best and most interesting tours I have ever been on! I learned so much and as a South African I adore the local pride Shimansky has. I certainly have a lot more local pride in regards to our diamonds!
I also want to say that Nadya Buchanan is the best tour guide I have ever had. She really loves what she does and delivers information with such passion and in such an interesting and easily digestible way! I learned so much and would definitely recommend requesting her for a tour!
1000000/10 experience!
I also want to say that Nadya Buchanan is the best tour guide I have ever had. She really loves what she does and delivers information with such passion and in such an interesting and easily digestible way! I learned so much and would definitely recommend requesting her for a tour!
1000000/10 experience!
Written 29 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for visiting the Cape Town Diamond Museum and for sharing your experience with us.
it is delightful to know that you enjoyed every minute of your visit. We are especially proud of Nadya and her passion for sharing the story of Shimansky. Her dedication to providing exceptional tours is truly inspiring!
Thank you for your kind words, we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 31 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
George Myers
8 contributions
Nov 2024 • Solo
Very interesting museum that takes you through the whole history of diamonds, which a natural focus on southern Africa. My guide, Maxine, was incredibly knowledgeable and engaging throughout the tour. There is an opportunity to browse the Shimansky sale room at the end of the tour as well as seeing the workshop. Please be advised that you will most likely need to book ahead of time. (200 ZAR entry)
Written 29 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for visiting the Cape Town Diamond Museum and for sharing your experience with us. It is delightful to hear that you enjoyed your time with us and found Maxine to be an engaging and knowledgeable guide.
We strive to provide our visitors with a comprehensive and immersive experience of the diamond industry, with a particular focus on its rich history in Southern Africa. It is wonderful to know that we were able to achieve that goal for you.
Thank you for recommending Shimansky. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 4 December 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elizabeth L
London, UK11 contributions
Nov 2024 • Solo
The museum is well worth a visit and modest price of admission. It's tucked into a mall, but don't let that discourage you. The brief tour is an amazing 20 or so minutes in the history of diamonds in South Africa and how the trade has progressed to ethical practices. It concludes in a showroom with amazing jewelry and gemstones for sale. You can wander at your leisure and there is no hard sell to buy. I'd like to thank Nadya for an educational and wonderful tour. Thank you!
Written 27 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for visiting our Cape Town Diamond Museum and for sharing your experience with us.
It is delightful to hear that you enjoyed your visit and that Nadya provided you with exceptional service.
Thank you for your kind words, we look forward to welcoming you back in-store again soon.
Best regards,
The Shimansky team
Written 28 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robert M
New Plymouth, New Zealand7 contributions
Mar 2024 • Couples
On the spur of the moment we decided to visit this museum.Nadya our guide gave a personalised tour where we learnt much about the South African diamond industry. The working area was fascinating where we observed skilled tradespeople going about their crafting. The tour was rounded off with complimentary drinks whilst viewing a fine range of jewellary available for purchase. Thank you Nadya - it was a great way to spend an hour.
Written 12 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tourist27359857842
2 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
Excellent resource about diamonds particularly the history of South African diamonds. Our guide Constantina was very knowledgeable, detailed and concise. The experience takes you through a short museum where it leads to views of a diamond workshop and ultimately lands you in a jewelry store. Visitors please be ready for the last part.
Written 20 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is this just an open air mine with a museum or do you go underground into a mine?
Written 29 July 2019
This museum is inside a shopping centre. The simulated "mine" is a passageway that is about 15m long that is kitted out with some mining paraphernalia.
Written 30 July 2019
Entrance to the Cape Town Diamond Museum is currently free of charge, even for tours that are not pre-booked. Although not required, booking in advance is recommended as our tours are fully guided.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Cape Town Diamond Museum soon.
Written 11 December 2018
Hi Ameera, the Diamond Tour is a personally guided experience of around 45 minutes in duration. It does however vary depending on your level of interest. Please visit our website to book your tour in advance.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Cape Town Diamond Museum soon.
Written 1 October 2018
Showing results 1-3 of 3
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing