Fabergé – the very name evokes images of dazzling opulence, intricate artistry, and imperial grandeur. Founded in 1842 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, by Gustav Fabergé, the House of Fabergé became world-renowned under the leadership of his son, Peter Carl Fabergé. Today, Fabergé jewellery stands as a symbol of luxury, craftsmanship, and history intertwined with the fall of the Russian Empire.
Origins of Fabergé
The House of Fabergé was initially a standard jewellery business, but under Peter Carl Fabergé’s direction from 1872 onwards, it transformed into a creative powerhouse. Fabergé was appointed as the official goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court in 1885, a move that would elevate the brand to legendary status.
His first imperial commission? The now-famous Hen Egg, a delicate, enamelled Easter egg containing a golden yolk and miniature surprises within. This was the first of 50 Imperial Fabergé eggs, and it solidified his relationship with Tsar Alexander III and later Nicholas II.
The Famous Fabergé Eggs
While Fabergé created all sorts of fine jewellery – from brooches and tiaras to necklaces and objets d'art – it's the Imperial Easter Eggs that truly captured the world's imagination. These eggs were not mere trinkets; they were masterpieces combining gold, enamel, gemstones, and often mechanical elements. Each egg contained a surprise: miniature portraits, tiny working trains, or intricate clockwork.
Fun Facts about Fabergé Eggs:
-
Only 43 of the original 50 Imperial eggs survive – The whereabouts of several eggs remain a mystery, making them the Holy Grail for collectors.
-
One egg was found at a flea market in the U.S. – In 2014, a scrap metal dealer unknowingly bought a Fabergé egg for $13,000 and discovered its true value was over $30 million.
-
The “Winter Egg” is one of the most expensive ever sold – It fetched over $9.5 million at auction in 2002.
Beyond the Eggs: Fabergé Jewellery
Though the eggs are the most famous, Fabergé’s legacy extends into an array of exquisite jewellery:
-
Delicate brooches and pendants crafted with guilloché enamel.
-
Miniature animals and flowers made of carved stone and precious gems.
-
Tiara commissions for royal families across Europe.
Fabergé’s work often reflected Art Nouveau and Rococo influences, with a heavy emphasis on natural themes like flowers, feathers, and insects – all meticulously rendered in gold and jewels.
Fall and Revival
The Russian Revolution of 1917 marked the end of the Romanov dynasty and also the original House of Fabergé. Peter Carl Fabergé fled Russia and died in exile in Switzerland in 1920. The Soviet government confiscated the company’s stock, and the art world mourned the loss of one of history’s greatest jewellers.
But the name didn’t die.
Modern Revival:
In the 21st century, the Fabergé brand was revived, and today it produces fine jewellery, watches, and bespoke creations in the spirit of the original House. While no longer based in Russia, the company upholds the Fabergé legacy of excellence, combining modern design with historical craftsmanship.
Fascinating Tidbits
-
The royal connection continues: Prince Charles (now King Charles III) gifted a Fabergé egg pendant to Princess Diana.
-
Fabergé had over 500 craftsmen during its peak, each highly skilled in specific tasks like stone cutting, enamelling, or metalwork.
-
Fabergé's works were rarely signed – Instead, he used maker’s marks from individual craftsmen, a testament to the collaborative nature of the House.
