Liebrecht van Deijl who advanced a legacy
In a world that is often fast-moving, some individuals remain devoted to values that offer lasting meaning: tradition, meticulous craftsmanship, integrity, and enduring elegance. Liebrecht Van Deijl was one such person. As Director at Van Deijl Jewellers, established in 1960, his leadership reflected a proud family legacy and a steady commitment to excellence and innovation. With quiet strength, he honoured the past while helping to shape a future grounded in quality and care.
As a respected figure in the South African jewellery industry, Liebrecht made meaningful contributions, championing creativity, encouraging fresh thinking, and inspiring the next generation to approach their craft with intention and precision. His influence continues to shape the evolving art of jewellery design and watchmaking.
Beyond his professional achievements, Liebrecht was widely admired for his humility, warmth and genuine kindness. He took particular pride in working personally with clients — whether designing a bespoke heirloom or guiding a client in selecting from the Van Deijl jewellery and watch collection. His approach was always rooted in thoughtful, tailored service and a belief that long-term relationships built on trust, respect, and authenticity are at the heart of the Van Deijl legacy.
In the footsteps of our founders
Throughout his life, Liebrecht was deeply influenced by his father, Wilco van Deijl, who instilled in him a strong commitment to excellence when designing and manufacturing a masterpiece. His passion for watchmaking was shaped by his father’s achievements as a Fellow of the British Horological Institute, while his talent for crafting elegant jewellery was inspired by the innate style and grace of his mother, Hermine Van Deijl.
A designer of note
Under Liebrecht’s leadership, Van Deijl Jewellers developed a distinguished jewellery design department, earning recognition through multiple accolades, including awards at the De Beers Shining Light Awards and the PlatAfrica competition. His steadfast commitment to design excellence and innovation helped cement Van Deijl’s reputation for exceptional quality and refined sophistication — reflected in Liebrecht’s signature pieces showcased above and below.
The strength of a family
Family meant a great deal to Liebrecht. In 1994, he joined his brothers, Ernst and Henri, in assuming leadership of Van Deijl Jewellers, marking a significant new chapter for the family business founded in Parow, Cape Town. United by a shared vision and a deep respect for their heritage, the brothers opened a destination store in Tyger Valley Centre — an important milestone that reflected both continuity and thoughtful expansion.
Over the next three decades, Liebrecht’s exceptional ability to connect with people, defined the welcoming, client-focused culture that continues to set Van Deijl apart.
Van Deijl evolved into a leading name in fine jewellery and luxury timepieces. The flagship store expanded to include a world-class gemmological laboratory, an advanced manufacturing workshop, a modern design department with cutting-edge 3D technology, and an extended showroom showcasing some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands, including becoming an Official Rolex Retailer.
A remarkable contribution
What distinguished Liebrecht’s leadership is the way he cultivated a genuine sense of belonging. Whether it was the pride he fostered among the Van Deijl team, the care he showed to every client, or the role Van Deijl played in the broader community, Liebrecht brought a rare attentiveness to people in all aspects of his work.
For those who knew Liebrecht, who experienced his sense of care — his work was not show without substance; it was not glitz without heart. It was a sincere desire to treat people with dignity, to show loyalty and to act with integrity.
Today, we honour Liebrecht not only for his dedication and craftmanship, but for the values he so consistently lived: care, trust and enduring quality. Through his leadership, the Van Deijl name became more than a hallmark of excellence — it became a lasting promise: we are here for the long-run, to serve with integrity and to always do craftsmanship right.
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