Idar-Oberstein
The town came to its age old reputation, centuries ago, when agate was found in the surrounding hillsides. The cleverness of German invention combined with the good luck of available water power and rough material allowed the stone cutting industry to be born. Even the sandstone used for the cutting wheels was to be found in the area. As time went on the rough material became scarce in the area, and demands grew to the point that lapidaries had to look to Brazil and Africa for rough material. As a result new materials became available for cutting, and the industry grew to its present proportions. The German love of precision has kept the reputation of quality alive. For generations these master craftsmen have carried on the old traditions, complementing them with new techniques and technologies. The region's lapidaries are entrusted with cutting and carving most of the world's most spectacular gems. Our collection features these high quality German-cut gemstones. We frequently travel to Idar-Oberstein to resupply and visit our family and friends. ©1995, S T E I N K U N S T / email: gemstones@steinkunst.com |
Nestled in the rolling hillsides of the Hunsrueck range, between steep cliffs carved out by the Nahe lies the small town of Idar-Oberstein. Located in Rheinland Pfalz, it lies just about midway between Frankfurt and Luxemburg, with a population of about 40,000 (including surrounding villages.) It's size can be deceiving, but upon looking closer, one notices that just about every other shop or house has something to do with gemstone cutting, carving or selling. The famous road snaking between the villages surrounding Idar-Oberstein, aptly named the "Gemstone Street" offers visitors the opportunity to stop and tour many lapidaries, rockshops and outdoor stone markets. 