9 November 2025  Seasonal Highlights: "Radiant Christmas"The Vienna-based jeweller A.E. Köchert offers each month a look into its collections through a seasonal lens — and for this holiday period the theme is "Radiant Christmas." This edition presents jewellery ranging from refined pieces suited for daytime wear to striking creations for the evening. Among them is the "Erszebeth" bangle (2.88 ct brilliant diamonds in 18 kt white gold) — a design that reflects the house's ability to translate imperial elegance into contemporary luxury. This seasonal insight encourages clients and observers alike to see jewellery not only as statement pieces but as companions for the varied moments of daily and festive life.Heritage of the House – From the Habsburg Court to TodayThe house of A.E. Köchert traces its legacy to the Austro-Hungarian monarchy, when it served as Imperial and Royal Court Jeweller — a heritage that remains a vital part of its design identity. One of its most iconic creations is the "Sisi Stars" (the diamond stars of Empress Elisabeth of Austria): 27 diamond ornaments commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph for the Empress, which she wore individually or combined as hairpieces, brooches, pendants, or part of a collier. These stars vividly express the connection between tradition and modernity that defines A.E. Köchert's philosophy. Today, the jeweller continues to reinterpret these stars using original drawings from the 19th century. Beyond these historic designs, the company's portfolio also includes a Sailing Knot series for maritime enthusiasts, a Hunting Jewellery line, and creative collaborations with artists and designers — all demonstrating how the brand bridges the imperial past with a modern, cosmopolitan spirit.Jewellery in Canada — A Rediscovered Imperial LegacyRecent media reports have brought a forgotten chapter of Habsburg history back into light: a treasure of royal jewellery, including the legendary Florentine Diamond (137 carats, yellow pear shape), was found stored for decades in a Canadian bank vault in Quebec. Among the rediscovered pieces is an extraordinary emerald watch, crafted in a large pear-shaped emerald and set with old-cut diamonds and smaller emeralds. The watch's cover is formed by a faceted emerald. It once belonged to Queen Marie-Antoinette, who received it as a gift from her mother, Empress Maria Theresia. The upper part, or chatelaine, was created by the Imperial and Royal Court Jeweller A.E. Köchert. A closer description and images of the jewelry are published on Köchert's Instagram.The authenticity of the collection was confirmed by Christoph Köchert of A.E. Köchert, linking the Viennese jeweller once again to imperial history. It is said that the Habsburg descendants plan to exhibit the rediscovered jewels in Canada as a gesture of gratitude for wartime refuge. However, no official exhibition dates in Quebec have yet been announced. This rediscovery highlights how jewellery can transcend mere adornment, serving as a living connection between heritage, art, and cultural identity. Exhibition in Gödöllő: A. E. Köchert's Treasures on ShowOne exhibition already confirmed is the upcoming show at the Royal Palace of Gödöllő in Hungary, opening 6 December 2025 and running until 6 April 2026. Entitled "A. E. Köchert – Jeweller to Emperors and Kings," the exhibition presents masterpieces from both imperial and aristocratic collections alongside archival design drawings, tracing two centuries of craftsmanship. A highlight will be a Neo-Renaissance brooch once owned by Empress Elisabeth and designed by Theophil von Hansen, shown to the public for the first time. Alongside historic tiaras, collier pieces, and diamond orders, visitors will also see modern works inspired by artists such as Hans Hollein, George Condo, and Erwin Wurm — revealing how Köchert's creativity bridges the centuries. More details can be found on the jeweller's website koechert.com.A Bridge Between ErasIn a world of rapidly shifting fashion trends, A.E. Köchert's work reminds us that true style lies in continuity and craftsmanship. Jewellery here is not merely decoration — it is a bridge between past and present, between personal memory and cultural history. Among all forms of adornment, perhaps none embodies lasting value more clearly than fine jewellery: a reflection of timeless elegance, not passing fashion.Image: Diamond bangle 'Erszebeth' in 18 kt white gold from A.E. Köchert’s 'Radiant Christmas' selection — inspired by the elegance of Empress Elisabeth. Photo: © Juweliere A.E. Köchert |