Prices Per Bucket
Small Bucket – R80
Medium Bucket- R120
Large Bucket – R160
Extra-Large Bucket – R200
Gemstone Scratch Patch – Family‑Friendly Gemstone Dig in Johannesburg
Dive in to an Unforgettable Gemstone Adventure (Monday-Sunday)
Offering facilities for the hosting of children’s parties
Scratch Patch – Johannesburg’s Hands‑On Gemstone Adventure
Welcome to the Scratch Patch, a unique activity within Africa’s largest gemstone outlet. Here you’ll discover affordable fun for all ages: children and adults can spend hours sifting through hundreds of polished stones and building their own collection of African treasures. Choose from buckets ranging from R80 to R200, and remember—there’s no entrance fee and no booking required. Enjoy the experience, then visit our on‑site café (no outside food or drink allowed) and explore the rest of Gecko Jewellers’ showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Scratch Patch?
It’s a family‑friendly activity where visitors sift through thousands of polished gemstones and keep their favourites. Think of it as a treasure hunt within Africa’s largest gemstone showroom.How much does it cost?
There’s no entrance fee. You simply choose a bucket: small (R80), medium (R120), large (R160) or extra‑large (R200), fill it with your favourite stones and pay for the bucket.Do I need to book in advance?
No. The Scratch Patch operates Monday–Sunday and does not require bookings. Just arrive during opening hours and start scratching.Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Please don’t bring outside food or beverages; there is an on‑site café serving refreshments and meals.Is the Scratch Patch suitable for children?
Yes! It’s designed for all ages, from young children discovering their first amethyst to adults seeking a calming, hands‑on experience.What else can I do at Gecko Jewellers?
Visit Africa’s largest gemstone showroom and replica mine, take the Mapatiza underground tour, shop for authentic gemstones and jewellery, relax at the café, and let kids enjoy the play areas and party venue.
Dive into our immense Scratch Patch and unearth your own unique collection. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast on the hunt for a specific stone or just looking for the thrill of discovery, this is a fun and affordable way to find real African treasures. You’ll get to touch, feel, and see the raw beauty of our gems before they’re transformed into elegant jewelry.
The best part? No booking is required, and there’s no entrance fee! Simply visit our Mapatiza Mine location to start your adventure. It’s a must-do activity for tourists and a popular weekend outing for local families in Gauteng.
The Timeless Allure of the Scratch Patch
In a world consumed by screens and notifications, there’s a simple, profound joy waiting to be rediscovered at our Scratch Patch, right here in Johannesburg, South Africa. This isn’t just an activity; it’s a return to something real, something tangible.
Why do we scratch? Because it’s an instinctive connection to the earth itself. It’s a quiet form of therapy, a way to disconnect from the digital noise and reconnect with the raw beauty of nature. Here, every stone tells a story. Every handful is a new possibility.
This is a space for all ages, for every soul seeking a moment of peace. It’s where children discover their inner geologist, their eyes wide with wonder at a flash of amethyst. It’s a perfect setting for a unique date night, a quiet moment between a couple, or a chance for a family to create lasting memories, together and unplugged.
Imagine the feel of cool stones in your hands, the gentle murmur of discovery, the quiet satisfaction of finding your own piece of Africa’s treasure. No bells, no whistles, just you, the earth, and the timeless joy of discovery.
The Scratch Patch offers more than just gemstones; it provides quality time, a sense of wonder, and the grounding feeling of being truly present. It’s a place to find something beautiful, both in the stones and in yourself.
A treasured outing for families, friends, and explorers of every age.
Discover the Magic of Our Gemstone Scratch Patch
Explore Africa’s largest gemstone showroom and dig for polished gems at Gecko Jewellers’ Scratch Patch in Johannesburg. No booking is required—choose a bucket size, sift through hundreds of stones, and take home your favourites. Perfect for families and tourists.