"As the founder of Refemme, I am so proud to tell our story and how we got to where we are today. I am a proud female entrepreneur and for me it really is all about the journey and not just the destination.
“Refemme was ignited from a passion for craftsmanship and belief that beauty isn’t just found in the new, but in the reimagined."
On a trip to Iceland in 2022, I visited the diamond beach and the concept for Refemme was born. The Diamond Beach in Iceland is a magnificent black sand beach where chunks of ice from the nearby Glacier wash ashore. These ice fragments resemble sparkling diamonds and contrast against the dark volcanic sand. What happens at the Diamond Beach is a natural process, but it’s tied to a larger environmental concern. The icebergs that wash ashore come from the glacier, that is melting due to climate change. Standing there on the beach I realised that I wanted to create something so beautiful, something contrasting just like the ice against the volcanic sand – but I knew I had to create something with a positive environmental impact.
I am so happy for you to be a part of the Refemme story as we create pieces for you to enjoy for a lifetime.
Let’s create magic together!"
Our Process
At Refemme, our core values include that of positive environmental and societal change. This is why we have joined forces with the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School as a part of their enterprise development. Refemme is proud to be a part of HODTS and their incredible legacy.
HODTS & Refemme
Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School
HODTS has been a Bono fide training provider for the diamond industry since 1991. HODTS has, over the years, become an internationally recognised training provider for the diamond industry. The school has grown significantly through the years and provides various courses covering the full manufacturing spectrum and related processes.
With the Help of HODTS, we source mined diamonds and lab grown diamonds that align with our values. Our use of Revived Diamonds, that might have otherwise been forgotten, are used in giving them new life and value.
"With a combination of years of experience in the industry, expertise, authenticity, and artistry within every creation, we ensure that our jewellery is as meaningful as it is beautiful."
FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jessica
After graduating with a BA in Law followed by a PDM, Jess completed her Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation in 2021. With a consulting background, our founder knew she always wanted to start a business. Refemme was born in April 2023 with a commitment to advocating for female representation in the diamond and Jewellery industry. Passionate about design and diamonds and gemstones, Jess encompasses a mix of creative direction, business strategy, and hands-on involvement in daily operations at Refemme. In 2024, Jess completed her Diamonds and Diamond Grading course at the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School.
“My journey into the world of diamonds wasn’t conventional, but Refemme is all about breaking stereotypes.”
HEAD OF PRODUCTION
Neil
Neil holds the qualification as a Microsoft Systems engineer and Software developer. He started his career in the diamond industry in 2000 building laser machines for Bettonville as well as design and set up factories for Diamond Manufacturers across Southern Africa. He completed his rough diamond evaluation course in 2003 at the Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School (HODTS). He did his GIA. Polished Diamond Grading 2006, GIA Gem Identification, GIA Coloured Stone Grading from the Gemmological Institute of America. He also holds a National Certificate: Occupationally Directed Education Training and Development Practices. In 2007 Neil joined HODTS full time as one of the directors, Operation Manger and world-class instructors.
Neil joined Refemme in 2024 and manages the manufacturing of all goods to ensure the highest of quality is met with ethical commitment.
