The Dreher family’s legacy originates from Idar-Oberstein, Germany, a town renowned for its 600-year gemstone carving tradition. The House of Dreher has earned acclaim for producing some of the world’s most exquisite and collectible animal carvings.

In the mid-20th century, Hermann Dreher gained recognition through his independent work for the St. Petersburg design house, Fabergé. He sourced jasper and agates from local mines and Brazil, developing unique concepts and methods that set his creations apart.

This esteemed craft has been meticulously passed down through generations since the 1800s. Today, we proudly showcase the masterpieces of Gerd and Patrick Dreher, representing the fourth and fifth generations of master carvers. Their creations are celebrated for their lifelike detail, captivating personalities, and the exceptional quality of the gemstones used.A notable example is the ‘Queen of Toads,’ a remarkable sculpture crafted from a single piece of gem-quality Brazilian tourmaline, weighing 6,666 carats and exhibiting up to 13 distinct colors. This piece exemplifies the Dreher family’s dedication to capturing the essence of the animal kingdom in gemstone form.

The Dreher animal sculptures are crafted from various valuable gemstones, mainly from quartzes and beryls, but also including rubies and obsidian. Their preferred material is natural agate from Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. In 2017, our gallery had the honor of exhibiting a selection of Gerd and Patrick Dreher’s works, generously loaned from various collections.

This event marked the first public display of these masterpieces in the United States, offering art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience the Dreher family’s unparalleled artistry firsthand. We are delighted to have played a pivotal role in introducing these exceptional works to a broader audience in the U.S., fostering a deeper appreciation for the Dreher family’s contributions to the art of gemstone carving.