New from our workshop
Stories
Valentine’s Day and Its Symbols
The Roman Saint Valentine is said to have secretly conducted marriages for soldiers who were forbidden to wed. Thanks to poets such as Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare, his legend became a part of modern folklore. And by the 20th century, a veritable annual celebration had taken hold around the newly declared day of love.
Elke Sylvia Krystufek
A ubiquitous talent across a vast artistic landscape: Elke Sylvia Krystufek works in the fields of painting and photography, stages installations, writes plays, creates collages, and deconstructs established perspectives.
Of Lost Treasures
One of the best-kept secrets in the history of jewellery has recently been revealed. After more than 100 years, several of the legendary Habsburg jewels from the renowned Vitrine XIII have reappeared.
Friends of our house
Jewels can be seen as an enhancement or a protection... personally I like to look at them as an adventure.
Jewels can be seen as an enhancement or a protection…..personally, I like to look at them as an adventure.
Every visit to the Köcherts is an experience! I love to dive into the stimulating world of wonderful stones and treasures, to learn more about the colours, special features and stories of the pieces of jewellery!
The right jewellery says more than a thousand words. Köchert also combines deep tradition with the most modern craft and design. You can find yourself in the splendor of the fantastic pieces.
Austrian history, like that of my family, is closely connected to the Köchert company. And you notice that immediately when you enter the historic shop on the Neuer Markt. The jewellery is simply unique and a wonderful combination of lived tradition and current design. Bravo!
I value the exquisite jewellery from Köchert as the very finest handicraft. The taste and style of the house, as well as the pleasant, personal relationship with the family are unique.
As one leafs through our extensive archive of drawings, it is all too easy to lose oneself in the beauty of these historic tiara designs. One cannot help but imagine how the finished piece might have taken shape, and which inspirations from nature may have guided the designer.
In this case, it seems to have been magnolias, delicately stylised to adorn a lady’s coiffure. Our anticipation of the approaching spring only grows stronger with every glance.
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#JewelryDesign #HistoricJewelry #Magnolia #HauteJoaillerie #Kochert
Mar 12
Whoever wishes to anticipate the arrival of spring: a touch of pink lifts the spirits. And if you would like it to sparkle all the more brilliantly, we recommend one of these two eternity rings. In an instant, you may find yourself beneath blossoming cherry trees.
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#ThinkPink #SapphireLove #Jewelry #kochert #Eternity
Mar 9
Long before its mysterious disappearance in 1918, the extraordinary Emerald Parure of Empress Elisabeth had already captivated all who beheld or read about it. Even during the Empress’s lifetime, the celebrated Vine-Leaf Parure was regarded as the most magnificent of her many jewels.
The ensemble comprised a diadem, a collier, earrings, a grand devant-de-corsage, two bracelets, and a most remarkable watch. The emeralds, masterfully set by Alexander Emanuel Köchert in the 1870s, originated from a jewel once belonging to Empress Maria Theresia and were reimagined for Elisabeth within this breathtaking new creation.
Today, the whereabouts of only a single piece from this legendary set created by the House of Köchert are known. The watch was among the private Habsburg jewels rediscovered in Canada only a few months ago - treasures that had accompanied Austria’s last Empress Zita into exile.
The egg-sized emerald containing the timepiece, once part of Maria Theresia’s collection, is mounted on a chatelaine designed by Alexander Emanuel Köchert. In its daring conception and singular character, it remains a striking testament to the audacity and brilliance of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Imperial jewellery.
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#HabsburgJewels #EmeraldParure #HistoricJewels #ImperialJewels #kochert
Mar 7
Who wouldn’t wish to keep their beloved four-legged companion close at all times? Fortunately, they are so wonderfully photogenic that one always has a cherished photograph to hand, right?
But imagine transforming that treasured image into a timeless piece of jewellery, bearing the portrait of your darling companion. In the most meticulous craftsmanship, the miniature work of art is engraved into rock crystal, delicately hand-coloured in finest miniature painting, and finally backed with a layer of mother-of-pearl.
Ida, for one, is utterly enchanted by her own likeness.
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#whippet #jewelry #doglovers #animalportrait #kochert
Mar 4
We can hardly wait for the first whispers of spring. Even our floral arrangement of the week is longing for the season’s very first lantern party.
For those who would rather not wait, we have prepared a few vibrant accents to brighten the days ahead. After all, who says lanterns belong only in the trees?
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#lanternparty #rosequartz #earrings #coccinella #kochert
Mar 2
Golden light for the winter season. These trapezoid-shaped earrings, set with citrine, bring a quiet warmth to crisp, pale textures. Their structured silhouette lends architectural poise, while the faceted stones catch the light with a restrained, honeyed glow. Composed. Confident. Distinctly refined. A touch of sun telling tales of a spring to come.
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#Citrine #HoneyDreams #Trapez #JewelryDreams #Kochert
Feb 27
A whisper of Imperial romance, reimagined for the modern muse. This delicate white gold ring draws its inspiration from the legendary Sisi Stars once worn by Empress Elisabeth - an enduring symbol of grace, independence, and celestial beauty. Refined. Feminine. A modern heirloom with imperial provenance.
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#EmpressElisabeth #SisiStars #DiamondStars #Köchert #JewelsWithHistory
Feb 25
If you ever feel like taking a break from skiing for a day, a gentle walk alongside the gently meandering Lech River, just beyond the doors of Post Lech Arlberg, is highly recommended. For a touch of romance, why not take a horse-drawn carriage ride to the nearby village of Zug? Upon your return, a crackling fire and a comforting afternoon tea await in the Hubertushalle. And who knows – perhaps, as your gaze wanders, a glimpse of a jewel from the illustrious Imperial jeweller Köchert may quietly catch your eye.
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#HuntingJewelry #Fireplace #RomanticMoments #CarriageRide #LechAmArlberg
@postlech @a.e.koechert @insidethearlberg
Feb 22
Since its inception, A. E. Köchert has cultivated a close dialogue with leading contemporary artists of every era.
In the 19th century, the House collaborated with luminaries such as Peter Fendi, Heinrich von Ferstel and Theophil Hansen. The 20th century saw partnerships with visionaries including Erwin Lang, Hans Hollein and Boris Podrecca.
On the occasion of our 200th anniversary, we were honoured to work with celebrated artists such as Erwin Wurm, Eva Schlegel, Peter Kogler and many others.
These exceptional works are currently on view at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő - an encounter of art, heritage and timeless craftsmanship in a truly majestic setting.
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#ArtistsJewelry #ArtistsDesign #Kochert #AnniversaryEdition #Jewelry
Feb 20
For those who have long been considering a visit to Gödöllő, this is the perfect moment - especially for admirers of history and exquisite jewels.
More than 300 remarkable exhibits await at the exhibition A. E. Köchert – Jeweller to Emperor and Crown, including around 100 extraordinary pieces of jewellery from international private collections spanning over two centuries.
There is always the right moment to create unforgettable memories.
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#ImperialJewels #ImperialSplendour #JewelryExhibition #HabsburgJewels #Kochert
Feb 19
A. E. Köchert’s highlight moment of the past 100 years? To have played a part in the rediscovery of the legendary Florentine Diamond – without question. To hold in one’s hands what was once held by Emperors and Queens, by Dukes and Princesses. To touch a fragment of history itself.
To have been entrusted with the authentication of one of the world’s most significant diamonds fills us with profound gratitude and humility. Once safeguarded by our forebears in their role as Court Jewellers to the Habsburgs, it now resides in its new home in Canada. To find out more see @a.e.koechert or www.koechert.com
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#Florentine #FlorentineDiamond #Kochert #Habsburg #Jewels
Feb 17
Where might love be celebrated with greater elegance than over a glass of champagne from @winery.schlossgobelsburg at Hotel Post Lech Arlberg? Join us for a truly sparkling Valentine’s Day – and who knows, a moment spent before the luminous showcases of former Imperial Court Jeweller A. E. Köchert in the Hubertushalle may just inspire you to express your love in a particularly timeless manner this year.
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#BeMyValentine #RubyLove #SparklingDreams #CelebratingLove #DiamondsAreForever
@postlech @a.e.koechert @winery.schlossgobelsburg @insidethearlberg @sebastianmenschhorn
Feb 14
On days such as this, it is time to bring out one’s orders and decorations, for balls like the Vienna Opera Ball provide the fitting stage. Once bestowed by the Emperor in recognition of exceptional merit, these distinctions were crafted by the House of Köchert in a variety of sumptuous designs.
Shown here is the Order of St Stephen, awarded to Otto von Bismarck in 1872 - the highest honour of the Kingdom of Hungary. It is currently on display at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, generously loaned by the Otto von Bismarck Foundation ottovonbismarckstiftung in Friedrichsruh to the exhibition A. E. Köchert, Jeweller to Emperor and Crown.
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#WienerOpernball #BringingTheBling #ViennaOperaBall #Bismarck #Decorations
Feb 12
Those who set out on a hunt will find Lech richly rewarding. Whether searching for the region’s wildlife, the freshest powder snow, or new sparkling treasures, everyone will discover what they seek in and around Hotel Post Lech Arlberg. The region’s renowned reputation is well deserved.
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#MountainAdventures #SnowLovers #WatchingOut #PowderSnow #HauteJoaillerie
@postlech @a.e.koechert @insidethearlberg picture 2 & 3 @sophie_koechert
Feb 11
Since the very inception of our company, collaboration with contemporary artists has been integral to our identity. This project with the outstanding American artist George Condo continues a long-standing tradition of artistic partnership.
Desireah — a neologism formed from the words desire and diarrhoea — was conceived under the patronage of HRH Prince Ernst August of Hanover. As is so often the case in Condo’s oeuvre, the work engages in a dialogue with classical motifs from art history.
The outer shell, crafted from rock crystal, is exquisitely adorned with gold, precious stones and pearls. An unequivocal reference to classical Kunstkammer pieces. Concealed within is a perfume flacon in the form of a human figure holding a bottle. The figure opens at the waist; upon closer inspection, one discerns the allusion to the form of a lavatory — a deliberately provocative gesture in the unmistakable spirit of Condo.
The work may be admired until 6 April as part of the exhibition A. E. Köchert. Jeweller to Emperor and Crown at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő.
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#GeorgeCondo #ArtistsJewelry #Kunstkammer #Condo #Desire
Feb 9
Where better to return after an exhilarating day on the slopes than to the warmth and comfort of Hotel Post Lech Arlberg? After unwinding in the spa, a delightful dinner awaits in the refined Panorama Restaurant. And should you wish to find the perfect accessory to complete the evening, be sure to stop by the Hubertushalle – where the latest creations from the prestigious jewellery house A. E. Köchert are waiting to be discovered.
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#Skiing #Cufflinks #Arlberg #SpaMoments #ArtOfHosting
@postlech @a.e.koechert @insidethearlberg
Feb 7
The most spectacular of all opal varieties, the fire opal captivates with its incandescent orange glow — so intense it might almost be mistaken for something unnatural. But it is not.
A beautiful reminder of nature’s power to astonish. Best admired at this time of year, beside a warm fireplace, where the opal may rival its namesake flame in a quiet contest of brilliance.
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#FirePlaceTime #HauteJoaillerie #Opal #Köchert #Adornment
Feb 6
A quiet glimpse behind the scenes of the preparations for the current Köchert exhibition at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő.
From Katharina Schratt’s ruby watch, to the bracelet specially commissioned as a gift by Emperor Karl, and the exquisite feather brooch of Archduchess Marie Valerie - each masterpiece may be admired up close. A rare privilege, as these jewels ordinarily rest in private safes.
The dialogue with the original historical design drawings on site sharpens the eye for detail and brings the intricate processes of their creation into the light of history. On view until 6 April.
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#ImperialJewels #MarieValerie #HabsburgJewels #HistoricJewels #Köchert
Feb 4
According to research by Elisaveta Stantcheva, the Bulgarian Fleur-de-Lys tiara was not, as is often assumed, a gift from her future husband, Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, the reigning Prince of Bulgaria. Instead, it was a present from the people of Bulgaria themselves.
Contemporary newspaper accounts reveal that in March 1893 the Committee of Bulgarian Women resolved to commission an official wedding gift for the future Princess. Within days, a nationwide public subscription was launched, followed by a commission to the House of Köchert. The fleur-de-lys motifs were chosen to reflect the bride’s Bourbon-Parma ancestry. The ceremonial presentation of the diadem to Princess Marie Louise finally took place upon her arrival in Sofia in June 1893.
What a marvellous gift - don’t you think?
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#NewResearch #BulgarianTiara #FleurDeLysTiara #BourbonParma #RoyalTiara
Jan 31
By marrying Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, the reigning Prince of Bulgaria, Princess Marie Louise of Parma became Princess of Bulgaria. In the famous portrait by Philip de László, she is depicted wearing the magnificent Bulgarian Fleur-de-Lys tiara, crafted by the House of Köchert.
The eldest daughter of Duke Robert I of Parma, she was also the eldest half-sister of Empress Zita of Austria. Following her early death, her eldest son, Tsar Boris III, married Giovanna, Princess of Savoy, who thus became the next owner of the tiara.
The jewel was later worn by their daughter, Princess Marie Louise, at her marriage to Prince Karl of Leiningen, before passing to Queen Margarita, who married Tsar Simeon in 1962 and wore the tiara on several occasions in the years that followed.
For a closer look and insightful NEW research by Elisaveta Stantcheva at this remarkable jewel, be sure not to miss the next post
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#BulgarianTiara #FleurDeLys #TiaraTime #Bulgaria #RoyalJewels pictures from @the_royal_watcher 🙏🏼
Jan 30
