Jakob Bengel Stiftung

One of the few surviving farms of the former jewelry and metalware industry in Idar Oberstein is the chain and costume jewelry factory Jakob Bengel. In the historical factory areas the visitor is led to the mechanical production of the company from 1870 to 1990. Economic developments, social structure and working conditions of this time are presented in a powerful way.

The running machines allow you to understand the working methods and technical processes. In addition, the unique building ensemble, consisting of the 1873 built factory with fireplace and an extension from 1932, the workers’ dwellings built in 1892 and the 1911 Art Nouveau style built manufacturer villa, are unique throughout the region and in its originality is completely preserved.

The Bengel Ensemble
Within the typical mid-size factory of the former costume jewellery production, the layout of the factory, quarters for the workers as well as the mansion house of the owner are unique in the whole region. Especially as it is completely preserved in its original construction. Since 2003 the Art Déco Jewellery of Jakob Bengel of the 20‘s and 30‘s is reproduced according to their own pattern books with the original tools and in the same production method in limited editions for individual customers. The jewellery of this style is experiencing a renaissance.