Namibia 2025 – Project Neuschwaben

A few weeks ago, we returned from Namibia – full of impressions, experiences and pride in what has developed over the last few years.

How it all began
In 2021, we stood in the Erongo Valley, still as ‘lone warriors’ among many small miners chasing their dream of the one big find. With the simplest of means, we stumbled upon a veritable treasure trove – lagoon-coloured tourmalines, which we were able to recover together with local partners.

Handcrafted ring in white gold with tourmaline from Namibia. We found acceptance not through big names or traditions, but through values that you actually learn as a child: kindness, respect, helpfulness and adherence to common rules. In this way, we became part of a community that speaks over 15 languages but understands the same language of fairness and loyalty.

Today – more professional and sustainable
Those first steps have now grown into a professional project. We are an official licence holder in Neuschwaben, work with reliable partners such as Gerhard Hahn GmbH, and have set up our own camp.

Encounters and impressions
The conversations with those who have been working in the quarry for decades – often with nothing but a shovel and a hammer – are particularly moving. The conditions are harsh: over 40 degrees during the day, below 10 at night. But they help each other, share what they have, and always find little moments of happiness.

For us, it’s the sunsets, the laughter of the people, encounters with giraffes and zebras, and much more – Namibia has a magic all of its own.

Family and future
This time, Andreas’ daughter, Miona Kobler, was also by our side. For us, this is a sign of how freely and safely one can move around in this country – and how inspiring it is when the next generation also contributes ideas, asks questions and helps shape the future.

Today, we have reached a point where we can say: we have grown. Not only in size and professionalism, but also as part of a community built on trust.

In a few weeks, our film documenting this journey and the first discoveries of tourmalines in Neuschwaben will be released. We look forward to sharing these images with you soon.

Acknowledgements and outlook
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our partners and friends who accompany us on this journey. We remain committed to our goal: to create a direct, fair and transparent value chain that benefits everyone involved.