Heirlooms turns 20!

A visit to Heirlooms transports you to a time when quality craftsmanship was applauded and style came naturally. Husband and wife team Dean and Tracey take great care in the way they source their stock, from crystal to fine English china and pre-owned gold jewellery, looking out for specific pieces for their dedicated clientele.

The couple learned their love of antiques and collectibles from Dean’s parents, and began by exhibiting at antiques fairs and fleamarkets while holding down full-time jobs – Dean in the police force and Tracey for the SABC. They opened a store in Gardiner Street, Durban in 1991, then moved to the Heritage Market, where they spent 13 happy years before moving to Hillcrest Corner.

Over the years, the Hendry’s have established relationships with a number of customers – many of whom have become friends. The couple are even seeing the second generation visit their store, in search of the same service their parents enjoyed.

“Quality craftsmanship is paramount,” says Dean, “and we’re always honest and fair, which keeps people coming back.”

The couple are very hands-on and know every piece in the store, keeping an eye on new trends and regularly updating the displays. Making sure that they are able to take a break, once in a while, is June, who has worked at the store, two days a week, for 10 years now.

If you’re after jewellery with its own story, you’ll find a range of carefully selected pre-owned gold and diamond jewellery at Heirlooms. The pieces, which date back as far as the 1700s, are refurbished by master craftsmen before being put on sale, and offer good quality at a fraction of the new price.

Silver jewellery is the newest addition to the store, adding a modern touch that’s in keeping with the style of the other pieces, from beautiful lockets and rings to marcasite-style pieces.

Whether you’re looking for a gift or something for your home, there’s a beautiful selection to browse, from hallmarked silver picture frames and snuff boxes to precision German-made Fischer barometers and carefully selected Russ and Heartfelt teddybears, all chosen for their superior quality and price.

There’s something very special about this family business, where good service is taken personally and you are bound to find something interesting on every visit. Why not pop in to take a look? Dean and Tracey will be there to greet you!

Visit Heirlooms at Shop 1 (Woolworths level), Hillcrest Corner or call 031 765 6534