The 18th of May is International Museum Day, which was established by the International Council of Museums in 1977. This day aims to raise awareness on how museums are integral to the development of society, and a day where international recognition is given to museums for their contribution to our world’s culture.
What is International Museum Day?
The objective of International Museum Day is to raise awareness on how important museums are in the development of society, reminding us that museums are living institutions that help create bonds between visitors, generations and cultures.
Since 1977, museums around the globe have participated in International Museum Day on 18 May, growing awareness about the importance of museums in today’s society.
Visit the Cape Town Diamond Museum
The Cape Town Diamond Museum is the only museum of its kind in South Africa’s Mother City, and the first to pay homage to the extraordinary history of the South African diamond industry.
It was also during the 19th Century that South Africa produced the majority of the world’s diamonds and, in honour of this bygone era, visitors are invited to come and celebrate International Museum Day at the Cape Town Diamond Museum for a first-hand experience of the country’s significant contribution to the international diamond industry.
Learn About Diamonds
The collection of historical artifacts and life-size famous diamond replicas on display at the Cape Town Diamond Museum allows the visitor to truly connect with the wonder that is South Africa’s diamond history – taking you on a journey that begins with a diamond’s formation deep beneath the Earth billions of years ago to how they are cut, polished and graded.
Tour the Museum
Visitors can re-live the romance of this fascinating period by exploring the museum’s stunning displays with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a new found appreciation for both the local and global diamond industry.
The diamond museum features a number of authentic artifacts that tell the amazing history of the diamond, and in particular the story of South Africa’s diamond trade. The tour was designed to ensure that visitors experience the excitement and mystery surrounding these beautiful gems and learn more about one of South Africa’s greatest exports.
The personalised diamond tour concludes with a viewing of the Shimanksy diamond cutting and polishing factory, jewellery manufacturing workshop and a beautiful showroom filled with sparkling jewels.
