In 1932, Herbert Stephan and his wife Gertrud founded the company on Hauptstraße in Oberstein. Thanks to his linguistic skills and an excellent network in Idar-Oberstein and New York, Herbert quickly established himself as a successful gemstone trader in this fascinating industry.

In 1957, his son Klaus Stephan, at just 18 years old, opened the first factory at the current location in Frauenberg. From the very beginning, he relied on the unbeatable combination of regional craftsmanship and self-developed technology for the industrial production of gemstones. Together with his wife, Rosel Stephan, he laid the foundation for the company’s success by motivating the best talents in the industry to achieve excellence. Between 1980 and 2010, almost every graduate of an American university and every winner of a US championship wore a ring with a Stephan gemstone.

In 2013, the third generation took over the company's leadership. Bernd Stephan acquired all family shares and made his wife, who had previously been an executive at Deutsche Lufthansa, a co-owner. Under their leadership, the company underwent a strategic realignment. Bernd gradually shifted the focus from the declining U.S. class ring market to the European luxury goods industry. Kathrin placed particular emphasis on the training of new talent, a modern corporate structure, and a sustainable and transparent supply chain.

In 2024, the company was honored as "Entrepreneur of the Year." Over the past ten years, more than 100 new jobs have been created, and a record number of apprentices have been trained. Today, the company’s sustainable and transparent strategy is gaining worldwide recognition within the industry.