When Gerard and Pauline McCabe opened their doors in Adelaide Arcade on April 1, 1986, they were continuing a family tradition that had already been running for more than a century. Forty years on, the Adelaide institution has grown into one of Australia’s most respected jewellery houses, and the story behind it stretches back much further than four decades.
The McCabe family’s connection to South Australian retail began in 1878, when Gerard’s great-great-grandfather Patrick operated McCabe Tailors on Hindley Street. Over the following century, the family trade evolved from tailoring to jewellery manufacturing and retail, with Gerard and Pauline carrying that legacy forward when they opened their flagship store in Adelaide Arcade nearly forty years ago.
Today, their eldest children Jessica and Justin continue the tradition, a fifth generation of McCabes serving South Australians with the same commitment to craft and relationship that has defined the business from the start.
Pieces of jewellery are enriched with stories and history. Some are passed down generations as family heirlooms, while others mark pivotal life moments.”
With stores in Adelaide Arcade and Rundle Mall, Gerard McCabe has built its reputation on an exceptional eye for gemstones, exquisite craftsmanship and a personal approach to jewellery. Custom engagement rings, fine jewellery, watches and one of Australia’s finest antique jewellery collections sit at the heart of what they do, but it’s the relationships that really define the business.
“Fine jewellery is more than our business; it is truly our passion,” say Gerard, Jessica and Justin McCabe. “Selecting amazing gems from around the world and telling stories through design is what we love to do. From our family to your family, serving you, generation after generation.”
Antique jewellery roadshow
Adelaide Arcade, Friday 8 May
The much-loved Antique Jewellery Roadshow returns for one day only. Bring in your own pieces to be assessed by Gerard McCabe’s specialist team, and explore the brand’s exceptional antique collection while you’re there.
Whether you have a family heirloom whose story you’ve always wondered about, or a piece picked up on travels years ago, this is a rare opportunity to have it properly examined by some of the finest eyes in the business.
Free entry. One day only.
Bookings are essential and can be made via:
forms.gerardmccabe.com.au/antique-jewellery-roadshow-may-2026
Exhibition – celebrating 40 years
Adelaide Arcade
1 May – 31 May
A curated exhibition tracing four decades of craftsmanship, heritage, and design. Discover the award-winning jeweller’s rich heritage across four decades and beyond, along with a curated selection of jewellery from clients on display in store.
Free entry.
Gerard McCabe Jewellers
Adelaide Arcade and Rundle Mall
gerardmccabe.com.au
