INTERNATIONAL BODY PIERCING DAY – 28 JUNE
Celebrating the History, Craftsmanship & Care Behind Every Piercing Every piercing tells a story. From ancient cultural traditions to modern self-expression, body piercing has remained one of the most timeless forms of adornment across generations and cultures. With International Body Piercing Day taking place on 28 June, it offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the artistry, history and professional standards behind safe, quality piercings. At CPM, we believe that beautiful jewellery should always be backed by trusted craftsmanship, quality materials and proper aftercare – which is why our Steri Stud range has become a trusted choice for studios, retailers and customers alike. A Brief History of Piercing Piercing has existed for thousands of years and has held significance across many civilizations around the world. Ancient Egyptians associated certain piercings with status and wealth, while Roman soldiers were known to wear nipple piercings as symbols of strength and masculinity. Across India, Africa and Indigenous cultures, piercings have long represented spirituality, identity, beauty and rites of passage. Over time, piercing evolved from cultural tradition into a global form of fashion and self-expression. Today, professional piercing studios place greater emphasis than ever before on hygiene, sterilisation and safe materials – making quality jewellery and proper piercing techniques essential. Why Professional, Sterilised Piercing Jewellery Matters Modern consumers are far more conscious about hygiene and skin sensitivity than ever before. Especially for first-time piercings, choosing professionally sterilised jewellery can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable healing process. CPM’s Steri Stud collection is designed for peace of mind: Whether for piercing professionals, jewellery stores or customers purchasing a trusted pair for everyday wear, Steri Studs combine safety with quality craftsmanship. Hosting an In-Store Piercing Event International Body Piercing Day also presents a great marketing opportunity for retailers and piercing studios. Hosting a small in-store event can help create engagement while educating customers about safe piercing practices and aftercare. Some simple ideas include: Creating an informative and welcoming environment helps build trust with customers while positioning your store as a professional destination for safe piercing solutions. Piercing Aftercare Matters Proper aftercare is just as important as the piercing itself. Good hygiene and consistent care help support healing and reduce irritation. A few important aftercare reminders for customers: CPM also stocks piercing aftercare ointment to help support healthy healing and long-term comfort.
News Nugget – May 2026
News Nugget – April 2026
Using Security Cameras Effectively in the Workplace
At Cape Precious Metals (CPM), security is a key priority across all areas of our business — particularly within environments where valuable materials and equipment are handled daily. Security cameras play a vital role in protecting both people and property. However, simply having cameras installed is not enough — how they are used and positioned is what makes them effective. Why Camera Placement Matters A common misconception is that any camera setup will provide sufficient protection. In reality, poorly positioned or maintained cameras can limit visibility and reduce their effectiveness in identifying individuals or incidents. For cameras to serve their purpose, they must be installed with intention and regularly monitored. Best Practices for Security Cameras Position Cameras at Eye Level Cameras should be placed at a height that captures clear, front-facing images of individuals. Overhead angles often fail to identify faces accurately. Ensure Proper Lighting Good lighting is essential for clear footage. Poor lighting can result in dark or unclear images, making it difficult to identify individuals or activity. Cover Key Areas Make sure cameras monitor all critical zones, including: Avoid Blind Spots Regularly review your camera coverage to ensure there are no gaps where activity cannot be seen. Maintain and Check Equipment Cameras should be checked routinely to ensure they are functioning correctly. Faulty or offline systems create vulnerabilities. Use Cameras as a Deterrent Visible cameras can discourage opportunistic behaviour. When people know they are being monitored, they are less likely to act unlawfully. Report Issues Immediately If a camera is not working, obstructed, or damaged, it should be reported and addressed without delay. A Smarter Approach to Security Security cameras are one of the most effective tools in preventing and responding to incidents — but only when used correctly. At CPM, we encourage all team members to understand the importance of proper camera use and to remain aware of their role in maintaining a secure environment. Final Thoughts A camera can only protect what it can see.Position it well, maintain it properly, and use it as part of a broader culture of awareness and responsibility.
Preventing Common Workplace Risks
At Cape Precious Metals (CPM), creating a safe working environment starts with recognising that many workplace incidents are not complex — they are often the result of simple, preventable oversights. Understanding these risks is the first step toward reducing them. Where Risks Commonly Arise Many workplace injuries stem from everyday situations that can easily be avoided with the right level of awareness and action: Poor housekeepingCluttered workspaces, obstructed walkways, or spills left unattended increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls — one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. Failure to isolate faulty equipmentEquipment that is not functioning correctly should be removed from use immediately. Failing to do so puts others at risk and can lead to serious injury. Incorrect or neglected use of PPEPersonal Protective Equipment is the last line of defence. When used incorrectly — or not maintained — it significantly increases the likelihood of harm. Lack of planning for non-routine tasksTasks that fall outside of everyday processes require additional thought and preparation. Without proper planning, unforeseen hazards can arise. Poor communication around hazardsFailing to communicate risks or unsafe conditions creates gaps in awareness, putting both individuals and teams at risk. A Proactive Approach to Safety Preventing workplace risks is not about reacting to incidents — it’s about anticipating them. By maintaining awareness, following correct procedures, and communicating openly, we create a safer environment for everyone. At CPM, safety is not just a requirement — it’s a shared responsibility that protects both our people and our operations.
Connecting the Industry: Windhoek Info Session Recap
On 12 March 2026, Cape Precious Metals (CPM), in partnership with the Jewellery Council of South Africa (JCSA), hosted an industry-focused evening at The Weinberg in Windhoek. The session formed part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening regional relationships and supporting the growth of the jewellery sector beyond South Africa. The event introduced Namibian jewellers to the JCSA, with a focus on the value of membership and the role it can play in enhancing credibility, professional standards, and long-term business growth within a recognised southern African network. Through an engaging and collaborative discussion led by JCSA CEO Lorna Lloyd, the session highlighted the importance of cross-border alignment and meaningful industry collaboration. Membership benefits presented included access to industry representation, compliance support, networking opportunities, security intelligence, and participation in regional and international initiatives. The evening was not only about introducing membership opportunities, but about opening the door to stronger industry integration between South Africa and Namibia. It created a valuable platform for dialogue, allowing Namibian jewellers to share input on the support, resources, and services most relevant to their businesses. At CPM, we are proud to facilitate these connections and contribute to building a more aligned, informed, and collaborative jewellery industry across the region.
News Nugget – March 2026
CPM Announces 2026 Staff-Nominated Charity Beneficiaries
At CPM, we believe that making a meaningful impact extends beyond our industry and into the communities around us. We are proud to announce the charities selected through our recent staff donation nomination initiative. Thanks to the heartfelt submissions from our team, the following organisations will be receiving donations from CPM: The Cape Kidney AssociationSinethemba Community OrganisationOneway Sober LivingSarmie MommiezSt Francis Hospice (PE)Cheryl Lyn’s RescueHowlelujah FoundationHelping SACarthorse Protection AssociationSongo InfoGiving Gifts of LoveSidewalk SpecialsThe Future Factory This initiative reflects our collective commitment to supporting causes that uplift, protect and empower communities across South Africa. Throughout the year, CPM will also be featuring one nominated charity each month across our social platforms and in The Nugget, highlighting their work and sharing ways our broader community can get involved. Together, we continue to make a difference — one initiative at a time.
Security Tip: Position Cameras at Eye Level for Maximum Identification
In the jewellery industry, security is not optional — it is essential. One of the most common yet critical mistakes businesses make when installing CCTV systems is positioning cameras too high or at ineffective angles. For optimal results, high-resolution cameras should be installed at eye level at every entrance and exit point. This positioning ensures clear, identifiable facial footage is captured, rather than only the top of a person’s head. In the event of suspicious activity, clear facial recognition significantly improves the chances of identification and investigation success. Mounting cameras too high or at steep downward angles can compromise image quality and reduce their evidentiary value. Proper placement is just as important as camera quality. Lighting also plays a crucial role. Adequate illumination at entry points helps eliminate shadows and enhances image clarity — particularly during low-light conditions or periods of load shedding. Businesses should ensure that backup power solutions are in place so surveillance systems remain fully operational at all times. A well-positioned, properly maintained CCTV system not only strengthens security but also acts as a visible deterrent. In a high-risk industry, attention to these details can make a significant difference.
5 Things to Know About the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC)
Financial crime has a devastating impact on financial systems, investor confidence, and consumer trust. More importantly, it carries a profound human cost. Without the necessary safeguards and coordinated containment efforts, criminals are able to benefit from their actions and perpetuate a damaging cycle. To help protect the integrity of South Africa’s financial system, the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) works closely with law enforcement agencies, investigative bodies, and prosecutorial authorities. Below are five key facts every business should understand about the FIC. 1. Following the Money to Identify Wrongdoing The FIC uses a “follow-the-money” approach to identify the proceeds of crime and combat money laundering and terrorist financing. It analyses and interprets transactional data and regulatory reports submitted by businesses and other entities. Through this process, the FIC is able to detect suspicious patterns and financial flows linked to unlawful activity. 2. Producing Financial Intelligence The FIC does not conduct criminal investigations or prosecute cases in court. Instead, it produces financial intelligence reports based on its analysis and shares these with competent authorities, including law enforcement and prosecutorial bodies. These reports assist authorities in investigations, prosecutions, and applications for the forfeiture of criminal assets. Importantly, the FIC does not publicly share the regulatory reports submitted by accountable institutions. 3. Ensuring Compliance with Global Standards The FIC plays a vital role in ensuring that South Africa aligns with international standards for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT). It assists in strengthening and improving the country’s legislative framework to ensure South Africa remains compliant with global best practices. This alignment enhances the country’s ability to prevent and combat financial crime both locally and internationally. 4. Forging a United Front Against Financial Crime Financial crime affects every sector of society and requires a coordinated effort from government, civil society, and the private sector. Businesses, due to their proximity to transactional environments, act as critical “eyes and ears” for law enforcement. While all citizens have a responsibility to report suspicious or unusual activity, certain categories of businesses — known as accountable institutions under the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FIC Act) — are legally required to register with the FIC and submit regulatory reports. These compliance obligations form a cornerstone of South Africa’s financial crime prevention framework. 5. Enforcing Compliance The FIC actively inspects accountable institutions to assess compliance with the FIC Act. Where non-compliance is identified, the Centre may impose administrative sanctions that are proportionate, effective, and dissuasive. Sanctions may include: Sanctions are published on the FIC website, serving as an additional deterrent to non-compliance. By understanding the role of the Financial Intelligence Centre and fulfilling compliance obligations, businesses contribute to safeguarding the integrity of South Africa’s financial system and strengthening the country’s resilience against financial crime.