most people or better the jewellery “layman” perceive the jeweller as the person who does it ALL. In a few, rare scenarios this will be the case but more often the truly magic jewels are created by a team.

First it starts with a dream, or an idea, a concept which may or may not stem from the designer, it may be communicated to the artist who then starts to “realise” the dream via drawings or in modern times often via 3D modelling software.

Once the “dream” has taken a proper shape, is technically sound, within budget, stunning of course, the “illusionary model” will move either to a model maker or to a jeweller’s workshop manager who will choose the correct employee to turn the “idea” into a tangible model, either in wax or metal.

Once the model is completed, a big “Indaba” will follow to decide whether the idea has been executed to everybody’s satisfaction. More often a second model or changes will follow to finally achieve the perfect piece.

And only now, talking handcrafted pieces, the jeweller enters the stage. It is absolutely crucial to select the correct crafts person for a design. Some will be gifted to create complex shapes & concepts, others prefer straight lines or bold statement pieces.

Most of ANPA’s jewellery is “set with gems” & hence will yet involve another person: “The setter” who will add the final ingredient before the jewels is polished, cleaned & completed.

And only then the piece is ready to be presented and hopefully appreciated for what it is - A piece of Art!

Amethyst is the birthstone for February as well as the gem for the zodiac sign pisces. Amethyst is found in many locations, generally the lighter shades come from the “Americas” and the dark tones from African countries such as Zambia.

Amethyst is a balancing gem, it brings peace of mind and drives away enflamed passions and worries. Because of its calming mental effect, amethyst is a stone that can be used for over- worked, over -stressed, or overwhelmed mental states, and it gives protection to those who wear it. It is one of the best stones to use for tension or migraine headaches.

The Cape Quarter management decided to rebuild part of the center and unfortunately our store is in the way… We had a great time at the Cape Quarter, thank you. But time to move on, the store will close by 19. February 2012.

The Cape Quarter store has been replaced by our fabulous gallery space in the center of Franschhoek and of course there is still everybody’s favourite - the Kalk Bay store.

We are looking forward to seeing you there, ANPA

CLIENT MESSAGE:

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Hi Delmarie, Andreas, Anwar and the ANPA team,

We will definitely be recommending your top-quality services in the future.

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we thought this was such a lovely comment to write, we decided to publish it here:

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I am writing to thank you for your EXTRAORDINARY level of service in making a replacement for my stolen wedding ring last week. You could not have been more kind or helpful in smoothing out and resolving this rushed situation. But even MORE importantly, you have sent me home to Canada with a GORGEOUS ring on my finger– although I will always miss the ring I was actually married with, you could not have made me happier with this beautiful design! I have always been a fan and purchaser of ANPA jewellery and now I am a confirmed fan for life! I look forward to visiting ANPA when I am next in South Africa. I wish you continued success with your beautiful work! Best regards, Rxx Pxxxxx Toronto, Canada

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Come and join us! Great MCC bubblies & sinful chocolates @ the ANPA, Cape Quarter store, every Saturday during November….

ANPA set out to “conquer” the French corner and opened the store on 42 Huguenot Street on 1st October. Its a truly wonderful space and magical store…