Legacy Collection
Our Story
Robben Island fence art, chandeliers and jewellery
A Piece of History
Legacy Collection isn’t just a jewellery collection. Each piece is a poignant work of art made from the Robben Island fence, once the fence was a symbol of oppression is now a new symbol of hope, forgiveness and freedom. Legacy Collection products are handmade and locally produced in Cape Town. Each range (Peace; Rights; Justice; Liberty; Grace;.. ) are aptly named in honour of South Africa’s road to democracy.
It is Legacy Collections vision and commitment to continue investing in South Africa’s development by empowering previously disadvantaged individuals by creating pieces of art that tell the beautiful story of triumph for generations to come. Remembering that through confinement and struggle; strength and resilience triumphs.
The Birth of a Legacy
The Story of The Fence
The journey of the Robben Island fencing began in 2009, when the island underwent major renovations in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. As part of the upgrade, the historic prison fencing, weathered beyond repair, was removed and replaced.
This rusted fencing, which once surrounded the maximum-security prison that held Nelson Mandela, Ahmed Kathrada, Oliver Tambo, and other freedom fighters, was destined for a landfill. A remarkable part of its story is that Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and nothing can be removed without government permission. The fencing was officially removed, placed on a boat, and rescued on the mainland—marking the beginning of the Legacy Collection journey with Charmaine Taylor.
Seeing beauty in the broken past, Charmaine transforms this powerful material into artworks, chandeliers, and jewellery—honoring its journey from a symbol of imprisonment to one of hope, remembrance, and the enduring legacy of South Africa’s freedom fighters.
Our Founder
Meet Charmaine
Charmaine Taylor, founder of Legacy Collection, is an ethical and environmentally-focused artist from Cape Town, South Africa. Her mission is to always create art that sparks brave conversation that provokes change and positive awareness about her homeland, South Africa.
Making a Difference
Giving Back
Committed to the continued investment in South Africa’s development, a percentage of sales from Legacy Collection go towards sustainable development projects.
Every piece created is more than jewellery — it’s a work of art that carries the powerful story of Hope over History, crafted to inspire generations to come.