Isabel Bothma Interview: Isa B Jewellery Founder

Isabel Bothma Interview: Isa B Jewellery Founder. Isabel Bothma has carved out a name for herself in South Africa’s jewellery scene. As the founder of Isa B Jewellery Designs, she has built a brand rooted craftsmanship and modern elegance. From her workshop in Germiston, Isabel and her team design and produce distinctive, tailor-made pieces that reflect both artistry and personal expression. This year marks a special milestone, Isa B Jewellery Designs recently launched its new space at The Jewellery Village in Montecasino, Johannesburg, cementing its place among the country’s most inspired creative brands. We took some time to have a conversation with Isabel about The Jewellery Village opportunity and her entrepreneurial journey of building Isa B Jewellery. Check it out below!

How did The Jewellery Village opportunity come about for you?

The opportunity with The Jewellery Village came about through the Rand Refinery Enterprise Development Program and NQ Jewellery. This was back in 2021, when the Rand Refinery Enterprise Development Program launched with its first group.

You mention being inspired by your mother’s Honey Jewellery catalogues — how has that shaped your style?

Looking back, at the age of 13, those pieces — paging through Honey Jewellery catalogues — felt truly one of a kind to me. They didn’t seem real because of how beautiful they appeared. That inspired me to create one-of-a-kind pieces — jewellery that is distinct and unusual, like mini art pieces. Creating this kind of jewellery makes me happy, because I never thought I could make pieces like these in my life. As I grew up, I decided I wanted to create my own signature mini art pieces too — something that people will remember me by.

What makes your designs distinct in a market full of creative talent?

What I love most about my jewellery and my designs is the freedom- to bring my creativity to life in metal — to experiment, explore, and sometimes, reinvent what I’ve already created. Most Importantly, I don’t box myself in.
One piece of advice that has stayed with me comes from my lecturer at TUT, Mrs. Nina Newman, who always said to us: “Open the envelope.” I live by those words to this day, and I always tell her when I see her.
I am a creative, Ive always been a creative and curious child. I am a designer after all, and this is what I do best — it’s what I truly love.

How does South Africa’s natural beauty influence your pieces?

I’m mostly nature inspired. Our Flowers, our animals in Africa, The Patterns we have, the textures I see around me or anywhere I go. It goes back to the ‘’not boxing myself.’’ SA is so diverse and that makes me a happy designer because I can design just about anything I put my mind to.

What does being part of a collective like The Jewellery Village mean for your business?

Being part of The Jewellery Village has been meaningful for Isa B Jewellery. It introduced my work to a wider audience and provided an early platform for growth. Over time, my journey with the village has evolved, but I remain grateful for the opportunities it offered especially in the early stages of my brand. This collective is also about being part of something unique, where we collectively raise the profile of South African jewellery.

How do you merge creativity with business strategy?

For me, creativity and business go hand in hand. The designs I create give Isa B Jewellery its soul, while strategy ensures that this creativity reaches the right people and grows sustainably. I merge the two by staying true to my artistic vision — choosing metals and gemstones that speak to emotion and individuality — while also considering purpose, timing, and how each piece connects with the wearer. It’s about creating jewellery that is both expressive and intentional, balancing inspiration with thoughtful planning so the brand can flourish while staying authentic.

What role do women play in redefining the local jewellery industry?

I believe women are playing a beautiful and powerful role in redefining the South African jewellery industry. We’re bringing more emotion, authenticity, and individuality into our designs — creating from the heart and from our lived experiences. Through our work, we’re shifting the focus from jewellery as mere adornment to jewellery as expression, identity, and empowerment. Women are adding soul to the industry — blending creativity, strength, and storytelling in a way that truly connects with people. It’s inspiring to see how we’re shaping an industry that celebrates diversity, emotion, and the beauty of being real.

How do you want customers to feel when wearing Isa B Jewellery?

I want customers to feel confident, joyful, and connected to their individuality when wearing Isa B Jewellery. Each piece is made to celebrate who they are — their story, their light, and their uniqueness. I hope they feel seen and special every time they wear it.

What materials or stones are you most drawn to and why?

I’m drawn to the versatility of silver, brass, and gold — each carries a unique personality that allows me to express different moods in my work. I often combine them to create contrast and character, because every buyer is unique and deserves something that reflects their individuality. Being able to offer a choice that truly suits each person brings me so much joy.
I love pairing these metals with vivid, luminous gemstones like peridot, amethyst, pink tourmaline, blue sapphire, and Citrine, as well as other stones such as agate, tiger’s eye, and rose quartz. I’ve always been inspired by colour and the way it can evoke emotion, warmth, and a sense of life — and I love how beautifully these gemstones come alive against the metals.

What’s next for Isa B Jewellery in 2026 and beyond?

The vision for 2026 and beyond is to allow Isa B Jewellery Designs to grow organically — expanding our collections, strengthening our presence both locally and internationally, and collaborating on projects that align with our creative and ethical values. I’m open to where the journey leads, as long as it remains authentic to the brand’s spirit. And who knows, Maybe Isa can be more than just jewellery in the near future.