ABOUT

VOLGA EDELMETALLE

Welcome to Volga Edelmetalle, our family-owned jewelry store, where tradition and craftsmanship come together in every piece. Specializing in one-of-a-kind jewelry inspired by the rich heritage of the Volga German communities of Imperial Russia, we offer a unique blend of historical beauty and modern style. Our collection includes meticulously crafted, timeless pieces that celebrate these antique styles, alongside a large selection of everyday wear jewelry for all occasions.

In addition to our jewelry, we proudly offer a curated selection of Volga German artifacts, including coins and maps, allowing you to explore and connect with the history and culture of this fascinating community. At our store, every item tells a story, and we are honored to share these treasures with you.

 

STORY OF THE VOLGA GERMANS

The Volga Germans trace their origins to the late 18th century when Catherine the Great, empress of Russia, invited ethnic Germans to settle along the Volga River. Seeking to populate and develop Russia’s vast, underdeveloped lands, Catherine offered privileges such as religious freedom, tax exemptions, and self-governance. These incentives attracted thousands of German families from various regions of Germany, who began settling in the Volga region in the 1760s.

Over the next century, the Volga Germans built prosperous communities, maintaining their distinct language, culture, and religious practices, primarily Lutheran and Catholic. They became renowned for their agricultural skills, contributing significantly to the region's economy.

However, the Volga Germans’ status began to change during the early 20th century forcing many to emigrate to the USA and Argentina. After the Russian Revolution and during the Soviet era, those who remained faced increasing persecution, as they were viewed with suspicion due to their German heritage, especially during the tumult of World War I and World War II. In 1941, under Joseph Stalin, the Soviet government deported most Volga Germans to Siberia and Kazakhstan.

In 1924, the Soviet Union had established the Volga German Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (ASSR) in an attempt to create a home for the Volga Germans within the Soviet state. However, the republic was dissolved in 1941, and its people scattered across various regions of the Soviet Union.

After the fall of the Soviet Union, Volga Germans faced challenges in preserving their heritage, but many have since migrated to Germany, reclaiming their roots and cultural identity while honoring their rich history.