Nicky Oppenheimer & Family: Stewards of a Diamond Legacy

Nicky Oppenheimer, born on June 8, 1945, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is the son of Bridget (née McCall) and Harry Oppenheimer, and grandson of Ernest Oppenheimer, founder of Anglo American and former chairman of De Beers. He was educated at Harrow School and Christ Church, Oxford, where he earned a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics.

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The Oppenheimer Legacy in the Diamond Industry

Oppenheimer joined Anglo American in 1968, was appointed a director in 1974, and became deputy chairman in 1983. He resigned in 2001 but remained a non-executive director until 2011. In 1985, he was appointed deputy chairman of the Diamond Trading Company and De Beers Consolidated Mines. From 1998 to 2012, he served as chairman of the De Beers Group, overseeing significant developments in the diamond industry.

In 2012, the Oppenheimer family sold their 40% stake in De Beers to Anglo American for $5.1 billion, marking the end of their direct involvement in the diamond industry.

As of April 2025, Nicky Oppenheimer's net worth is estimated at $11.5 billion, making him one of Africa's wealthiest individuals.

Beyond business, Oppenheimer is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in environmental conservation. He established the Brenthurst Foundation in 2005 to contribute to the debate around strategies and policies for strengthening Africa's economic performance. The family has also been involved in environmental and conservation issues, partnering with De Beers to establish the Diamond Route in 2006, linking eight sites across northern South Africa for conservation, research, and environmental awareness purposes.