In 2021, a piece of Abalone shell discovered on the Cape Town shore became the seed for so.shell, a slow jewellery studio rooted in the lasting elegance of nature.
Guided by a dedication to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, founder Nikola joined together a team of local artisans who handcraft each piece using responsibly sourced materials.
Our name represents our commitment to these principles.
Our pieces tell this story.
so.shell is a collective of independent Cape Town makers we know by name – skilled jewellers, stone-cutters, carvers and smiths with decades at the bench. Working with saws, files, wax, and flame, each piece keeps traditional skills alive and puts fair pay into every hand that shapes your jewellery.
Working where land is shaped by the restless rhythms of the sea, Niki’s process is careful and grounded in slow design, guided by the textures and tides of her surroundings.
She is drawn to the organic forms of stone, shell, and metal, and enjoys working closely with local makers and artists, forming a collective of skilled hands. Together, they explore sustainable ways of creating, from the pieces themselves to the plastic-free packaging that carries them.
Each collection holds the marks of intention, made with meaning and made to last.
OUR ETHOS
Crafted with locally sourced materials and made by skilled Cape Town artisans, each piece reflects our commitment to supporting local communities and reducing environmental impact.
Every part of our process - from sketch to final polish - happens in Cape Town. We work closely with local artisans, stone-cutters, and casters we know by name.
We craft our pieces in 9ct yellow gold and 925 sterling silver, metals chosen for their lasting quality. You can read more about our metal options here. If you’d like a piece in other metals - like 14ct or 18ct gold, white gold or platinum - just send us a message; we’re happy to chat: hello@so-shell.com
Our Abalone shells - also known as perlemoen - are ethically sourced through certified aquaculture partners here in the Cape. Each one is received in its raw form, then shaped and polished by hand.
Each piece is hand-polished, and some are textured by local artisans. Our stones and shells reveal natural patterns and shades formed over time - making each one unique.
A simple way is to measure a ring that already fits you well - see our guide. Alternatively, you can also visit a local jeweller for a measurement.
SOUTH AFRICA:
We ship with a local courier. Orders over R1800 are free, otherwise a standard fee of R100 applies.
INTERNATIONAL:
We’re getting everything ready to ship internationally soon and will keep you updated.
Your jewellery comes in with a locally hand-crafted pouch and a care card. It’s placed in a kraft box, then shipped inside a home-compostable bag.
Pendants and earring charms take around 10 working days to craft. Rings take a little longer – about 10 to 15 working days - since we make them to your individual size. Chains and earrings are shipped within 3–5 working days.
We don’t have a store yet, but you can find some of our selected pieces at Strangers Club or you can visit us every Wednesday at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market from 4–9 pm.
Absolutely! Just drop us a quick message at support@so-shell.com before placing your order, and we’ll make sure it gets to you.
We do not accept returns or exchanges for personalized pieces. Exchanges or store credit (excluding the shipping fee) are available for items that are unworn, undamaged, and in their original packaging. The customer is responsible for return and re-shipping costs (free shipping, if applied, only applies once). Purchases using store credit are processed as new orders with standard manufacturing and delivery times.
Please drop us an email at support@so-shell.com and we will walk you through the return process.
Yes - you can personalize your piece with an engraving (max. 8-10 characters). Send us a message at hello@so-shell.com before placing your order, and we'll be happy to assist.
Each piece is carefully inspected before it leaves our workshop. If you receive an item with a manufacturing fault, damage, or the wrong piece, please email us at support@so-shell.com within 48 hours of delivery. We’ll review the issue and ensure it’s resolved.
We offer repairs or replacements within 30 days of receipt for any manufacturing defects, except for necklaces. Damage caused by misuse or normal wear and tear isn’t covered. Just email us at support@so-shell.com, and we’ll assist you.
We offer replating for select gold-plated pieces sold locally at OZCF Market, Strangers Club, or other locations. Just email us at support@so-shell.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.
We offer servicing for our 9ct yellow gold and 925 sterling silver jewellery. Just email us at support@so-shell.com, and we’ll get back to you with a quote (please note that shipping fees have to be covered by the customer).
Absolutely! We can craft any so.shell design in metals like 14ct or 18ct yellow gold, white gold, or platinum. Just reach out to us at hello@so-shell.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.
With each purchase, you’ll receive a care card tailored to the materials in your jewellery. We’ve also put together some helpful tips you can find here.
If you’d like to ask about our products, collaborate on a project, or need help with your order, then email us at hello@so-shell.com. We’re here and happy to help!
