HEMMERLE

The legacy of Hemmerle, a family-run German firm, dates back to 1893 when two brothers, Joseph and Anton Hemmerle, took over the renowned goldsmith Elchinger's business in Munich. The brothers renamed the firm Gebrüder Hemmerle and expanded their production beyond medals and insignia while retaining their loyal clients, including the Bavarian Royal family. In just two years, their exceptional work earned them the title of "Purveyor to the Court" by Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria.

Their reputation grew as they produced stunning Jewels and objects of art for the royal family and other noble families of Bavaria. Their craftsmanship was showcased at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, where their masterpiece Bishop's Cross was awarded a coveted prize. Hemmerle's success prompted them to move to their current location on Maximilianstrasse, the fashionable shopping boulevard of Munich, in 1904.

The Hemmerle brothers began reproducing antique jewelry and quickly became renowned for their exceptional filigree work and enamelling techniques. While they diversified their product range, they continued to produce medals, including the famous Bavarian Maximiliansorden, a beautifully ornate gold and enamel medal established in 1853.

After World War I, Joseph and Anton Hemmerle's sons, Joseph Jr. and Carl, joined the family firm and quickly became integral to its success. In 1937, Carl took over the company after the passing of Joseph Jr., and his wife Lore later joined him in producing the company's first collections.

Their son Stefan had a passion for goldsmithing and trained in Munich before gaining experience working for jewellers in France, Italy, and Denmark. Upon returning to Hemmerle, Stefan brought his technical expertise and creative vision to the business. He was joined by his brother Franz, and together in the 1970s, they transformed Hemmerle into an international brand.

Stefan's unique designs were inspired by the natural world, featuring intricate depictions of insects, animals, and flowers. The stunning pieces they created between 1979 and 1996 were celebrated in the book "Art of Nature." Hemmerle's success can be attributed to Stefan's bold artistic vision and Franz's dedication to the technical mastery necessary to bring those visions to life.

After World War I, Joseph and Anton Hemmerle's sons, Joseph Jr. and Carl, joined the family firm and quickly became integral to its success. In 1937, Carl took over the company after the passing of Joseph Jr., and his wife Lore later joined him in producing the company's first collections.

Their son Stefan had a passion for goldsmithing and trained in Munich before gaining experience working for jewellers in France, Italy, and Denmark. Upon returning to Hemmerle, Stefan brought his technical expertise and creative vision to the business. He was joined by his brother Franz, and together in the 1970s, they transformed Hemmerle into an international brand.

Stefan's unique designs were inspired by the natural world, featuring intricate depictions of insects, animals, and flowers. The stunning pieces they created between 1979 and 1996 were celebrated in the book "Art of Nature." Hemmerle's success can be attributed to Stefan's bold artistic vision and Franz's dedication to the technical mastery necessary to bring those visions to life.

In 1995, Hemmerle celebrated its 100th anniversary, and just two years later, Stefan and his wife Sylveli assumed full control of the firm. Under their leadership, Hemmerle began to redefine the boundaries of traditional fine jewelry and establish a unique style that remains unmistakably their own.

It all started with a client's request for a contemporary and understated diamond ring. Stefan's creative response was a sleek design featuring a large cushion-shaped diamond set into a textured iron band. This commission marked a turning point for the firm, inspiring a new direction in their artistic vision. Hemmerle began pairing precious gemstones with unusual materials like copper, wood, brass, and steel, exploring oxidation and modern finishes while using centuries-old techniques.

Stefan's intention was not to shock, but rather to inspire. Hemmerle's jewelry continues to push the boundaries of traditional jewelry-making and challenge our expectations of what jewelry can be. With their bold and innovative designs, Hemmerle has established itself as a leader in contemporary jewelry, inspiring the industry and captivating collectors around the world.

Hemmerle's reputation for innovative jewelry design and master craftsmanship led to their participation in prestigious art fairs across Europe and America. In 1998, the Munich boutique underwent a redesign to reflect the modern and groundbreaking style of their jewelry.

In 2006, the next generation of the Hemmerle family took the reins of the family firm, as Stefan's son Christian and his wife Yasmin joined the team. With their fresh perspectives, the Hemmerle legacy continued to evolve, pushing the boundaries of design even further. New, innovative designs emerged, showcasing the brand's continued commitment to creating exceptional and unconventional pieces. The Hemmerle name remains synonymous with creativity, master craftsmanship, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of jewelry design.