Karin Rae Matthee’s love for jewellery began at Stellenbosch University where she studied a BA fine Art (Jewellery and Metal Techniques) and in 2008 completed a semester at the Pforzheim Hochschule in Germany.

After this, drawing on inspirations from her diverse South African and German familial heritage, Karin was inspired to launch Dear Rae in 2010. Karin’s passion for empowering and employing local South Africans has been a driving force in the business.

Each Dear Rae piece is designed and made by Karin and her hand picked manufacturers at her Cape Town based studio. The studio and workshop create one space, allowing the ancient art of jewellery making to be exposed to all who visit.