PlatAfrica invites jewellery designers to find balance through platinum
24 April, 2026
There is something quietly powerful about balance. The kind that holds structure together, carries meaning, and still leaves room for beauty. It is this idea that sits at the heart of PlatAfrica 2026, which has officially opened entries and invites South Africa’s jewellery designers to explore the theme of Equilibrium.
Organised by Valterra Platinum in partnership with Platinum Guild International (PGI) and Metal Concentrators, PlatAfrica remains one of the country’s most respected platforms for platinum jewellery design and manufacturing. More than a competition, it has become a launchpad where creativity meets real world opportunity.
This year’s theme challenges designers at every level – from students and apprentices to established professionals – to reconsider what balance truly means. Not only in form but in feeling. In structure but also in story. The brief calls for pieces that hold tension and movement while remaining timeless enough to be worn, kept and passed down through generations.
“The exceptional talent of South African jewellers showcased at PlatAfrica is truly remarkable, and Valterra Platinum is proud to be part of empowering the next generation of jewellery designers and manufacturers.” says Craig Miller, Chief Executive Officer at Valterra Platinum. “Designers today are navigating more than just aesthetics. They are balancing sustainability, shifting consumer expectations and the realities of building a competitive business. Platinum is uniquely suited to that challenge, it’s strong, enduring and inherently beautiful,” he adds.
Over its 27-year history, the programme has played a defining role in building South Africa’s jewellery design and manufacturing talent pipeline, helping designers turn ideas into commercially viable, and technically refined work. The competition features two entry categories: students/apprentices and professionals; as well as a People’s Choice Award where the public can vote for their favourite design. Winners receive cash prizes across categories and may also be considered for inclusion in international design showcases, in turn opening pathways beyond South Africa’s borders.
Key milestones for PlatAfrica 2026 are already underway. Metal requests are to be submitted by 29 May 2026, casting requests for pieces close on 22 June 2026, and completed entries must be submitted by 20 July 2026. Judging will take place in August 2026, with the awards ceremony scheduled for November 2026.
For designers ready to take on the challenge, PlatAfrica 2026 offers more than a brief. It offers a moment to pause, reflect and create something that embodies its own sense of equilibrium in a fast-moving world.