The Cape Town Diamond Museum, V&A Waterfront
In celebration of International Museum Day on 18 May, Cape Town Diamond Museum invites visitors to come and experience first-hand South Africa’s significant contribution to the international diamond industry.
International Museum Day was established in 1977 by the International Council of Museums. The purpose being to raise awareness on how important museums are in the development of society. It is also a day where international recognition is given to museums for their contribution to our world’s culture. The museum community has chosen the theme “Museum collections make connections” for International Museum Day 2014.
The Cape Town Diamond Museum can be found in the lively heart of the famous Clock Tower precinct at the V&A Waterfront, conveniently close to the gateway to the legendary Robben Island. The museum is unique, being the only one of its kind in Cape Town, and the first to pay homage to the extraordinary story of the South African diamond industry.
On your personal tour of the Cape Town Diamond Museum, with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide, you will discover the fascinating history of diamonds in South Africa. It dates back to December 1866 when 15-year-old Erasmus Jacobs found a transparent rock on his father’s farm, on the south bank of the Orange River. Over the next few years, South Africa yielded more diamonds than India had in over 2 000 years.
During the 19th century, South Africa produced the majority of the world’s diamonds, amongst them the world’s largest, most valuable and memorable diamonds, including the Cullinan, the Hope and the Taylor Burton. Exact replicas of these exquisite gems can be admired at the museum, which ensures visitors feel the excitement and mystery around these iconic gems, and leave feeling enriched with knowledge.
The museum is open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm. Entrance is free.
For more information, please visit www.capetowndiamondmuseum.org or call 021 421 2488 for bookings.
