Natalio Barquet Junior
Barquet Jewelers is the parent company of Coquí el Original®, and where it all started for the founder and designer, Natalio Barquet Junior. Barquet Jewelers was established in 1920 and brought to Puerto Rico in 1965 by Natalio’s father, where Natalio was helping in his family’s store during summers since he was 11 years old. After graduating college from the University of Puerto Rico, Natalio was thrust full-on into the business in Old San Juan. Take a peek below at Natalio showing a Piaget necklace to the Miss Universe 1972 contestants held in Dorado, Puerto Rico. In 1990, Natalio earned his Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Certificate with a specialty in diamonds. Currently, Natalio is the chief designer of Coquí el Original®, a brand he founded in 2009.
Daniela Barquet
Daniela started working alongside her father, Natalio, in 2018 and became the official CEO of Natalio Barquet Inc. (parent company of Coquí el Original®) in 2023. Daniela’s primary tasks involve sales and marketing with a specialty in Content Marketing. Daniela graduated from Boston University in 2015 with a degree in The History of Art and Architecture and Minor in Italian Studies. She continues to grow as a jewelry store owner under the apprenticeship of her father.
More About Coquí el Original®’s History and Roots in Puerto Rico
Founded in 1920
Every story has a beginning. Barquet Jewelers was founded in 1920 in Cuba by Isaac Barquet. In 1965, Natalio Barquet Senior was able to establish the first N. Barquet Jewelers store in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, giving birth to what has become a long-standing local business tradition on Calle de la Fortaleza.
Rebranded in 2009 into Coquí el Original®
2009 was the year of reinvention! While the foundation of the business for over 50 years was to showcase items from international designers, Natalio Jr. decided to go another route and created Coquí el Original®. Inspired by the smallest of the tree frog species, the coquí Llanero, he designed what is known as our Coquí Classic Pendant in both silver and gold.
New Designs Arose from Elements of Puerto Rico
An attractive piece for both locals and visitors, the unique pendant propelled the creation of other variations and designs. We now proudly have a full-fleshed set of collections: the Coquí, the Leatherback Sea-Turtle, the Sun, the Puerto Rico Map and Flag, the Salsa dancers, The Taíno and Maga Flower. These collections include pendants, rings, earrings, classic bracelets, and cufflinks.
Currently Owned by our 4th Generation Owner
As currently the 4th generation and proud owner of the jewelry store in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Daniela Barquet spearheads this family-business tradition and hopes to reach a wider audience looking for distinctive, unique, fine, and elegant gifts during any season. We welcome you into our lovely community and hope to provide the most authentic customer service. Our goal is your satisfaction!
Come Visit Us in Person
Come visit our jewelry store in Puerto Rico, or we invite you to shop on our website. Should you have any questions, we are happy to help answer them. Please do not hesitate to reach out via phone, 787-721-3366,or via email, coquieloriginal@gmail.com.
Updated by Daniela on January 14, 2024
