Artistic Realms: The Enchanting Natural World of Histoire D’Elle
The allure of nature in all its diversity is something that has long captivated jewellery designers. Personally, I have always felt like nature is the queen of inspirations because it can take you to so many places, like the top of a mountain, the depths of the rainforest or the bottom of the ocean. And let's not forget the cosmos, plants, flowers and even weather patterns, which also come under the umbrella of nature. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Pascale Van Maele, the Brand Manager of Histoire d'Elle, which celebrates the deep-rooted connection between quiet femininity, elegance and natural forms. Her vision of a world dancing with butterflies has transpired into a fully-fledged brand that provides the perfect dose of sparkling escapism in a hectic world. Let's explore together…
I was introduced to Histoire d'Elle earlier this year at the Vicenzaoro and Inhorgenta trade shows. Right away, I could see Pascale Van Maele's artistic vision, which is as much about nature as it is the nature of femininity itself. Like so many jewellery obsessives, Pascale's passion can be traced to childhood when she wished for something sparkling at every birthday party. She tells me: "There's a quiet, powerful beauty in jewellery, in how it carries our memories, symbolises our stories, and becomes part of who we are. That beauty never left me." After dedicating 35 years of her professional career to luxury jewellery brands, the time was right to create her own pieces and "shape something that could live in someone else's most cherished moments".
To me, success isn’t about numbers or praise. It’s about waking up every day with a full heart, knowing I’m doing what I love, and going to bed proud of what I’ve created. It’s about freedom – to dream, to create, to live with purpose, Pascale Van Maele.
Histoire d’Elle diamond ring from the Les Incondition ‘Elle collection, which was designed to envelop the wearer in a sense of warmth and connection
Histoire d’Elle diamond ring from the Les Incondition ‘Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond ring from the Les Incondition ‘Elle collection
A trio of diamond rings in rose gold from the Histoire d’Elle Les Incondition ‘Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set cuff bracelet
A trio of diamond rings from the Histoire d’Elle Les Incondition ‘Elle collection
Histoire d'Elle was officially born in 2024, although you'd be forgiven for thinking it has existed for far longer, thanks to the depths of its collections. Its signature style is rooted in nature but with a graceful twist that brings a softness and whimsy to pieces. This isn't cruel nature or overwhelming nature; it's the kind that makes you feel comforted, confident and a little bit dreamy. "We understand that bold isn't for everyone; that's why we design with versatility in mind," Pascale explains. "Whether you prefer delicate elegance or nature's grandeur, our signature lies in how empowered you feel wearing our pieces. It's not just what you wear; it's how it makes you feel."
Histoire d’Elle oval-shaped diamond ring from the Les Infinis d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond ring from the Les Infinis d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set creation from the Les Infinis d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle marquise-cut diamond ring from the Les Infinis d’Elle collection
The brand's key collection is Les Natur'Elle, which has all the lightness and fairytale charm of a beautiful summer's day. Among the creations are swallows in flight, bumblebees, butterflies, dragonflies, and the wise owl, which seems to watch over the rest of the commotion. A particular owl-themed pendant with a heart-shaped rose gold body, diamond-set face and black diamond eyes is an iconic piece for the house, representing "wisdom, mystery and the powerful femininity found in nature," according to Pascale.
The world needs more empathy. More softness. More connection. Less noise, less ego. And above all, we need to pause — to truly see the beauty that surrounds us, especially in nature. It has so much to teach us… if we’re willing to listen, Pascale Van Maele.
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set openwork cuff bracelet from the Les Natur ‘Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set dragonfly-inspired ring from the Les Natur ‘Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set swallows from the Les Natur ‘Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond butterfly ring with a marquise-cut centre stone from the Les Natur ‘Elle collection
Other iconic pieces hail from the Oceans d'Elle collection, especially a gorgeous line of seahorse pendants in both white and rose gold adorned with diamonds. The other animals chosen for this range, notably turtles and starfish, tap into the idea of the sea having a 'quiet strength'. As someone who has often thought of the ocean as quite a terrifying and alien place, it is nice to think of the gentler side of this endless expanse of blue!
Finally, another piece that exemplifies the brand is a diamond pendant in the shape of its logo – a kind of crowned dragonfly with a key-shaped tail. Although I am sure you can read your own meaning into this combination of symbols (perhaps the notion that by unlocking nature, we can be our truer and more emotional selves?), it's the use of diamonds that I want to focus on. Histoire d'Elle uses almost exclusively white diamonds in its collections, combined with white gold or bi-metal pairings of white and rose gold. "As the saying goes, diamonds are a girl's best friend, and they've certainly become our signature," Pascale tells me. "Their clarity, brilliance, and timeless charm capture the essence of our vision. But we're also enchanted by the playful magic of colour."
Histoire d’Elle Starfish stud earrings with diamonds from the Les Oceans d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle Starfish ring with diamonds from the Les Oceans d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond-set turtle pendant the Les Oceans d’Elle collection
Histoire d’Elle diamond stud earrings in the shape of seashells from the Les Oceans d’Elle collection
From delicate floral motifs that evoke the gentle elegance of a blooming spring garden to bold, sculptural designs that make you dream of majestic landscapes. Histoire d’Elle celebrates beauty in all its forms, for every preference and occasion.
Overall, I think what resonates about Histoire d'Elle is its commitment to women. Nature is the theme through which it celebrates femininity and womanhood, which has the effect of making us feel seen and heard. Knowing this, it's easier to wear a piece of jewellery and feel like it is expressing a special part of your soul or at least the mood you find yourself in on a particular day! Pascale explains: "Each of our collections is infused with a specific emotion—joy, serenity, courage, love—inviting the wearer to create her own narrative. We want every woman to feel seen, celebrated, and emotionally connected to the piece she chooses. Beauty, after all, is personal."
Histoire d’Elle diamond pendant in the shape of its logo – a floral crowned dragonfly with a key-shaped tail
Looking ahead, the brand is working on a new collection – Les Bonbons d'Elle – a limited edition collection featuring vibrant coloured gemstones. I am told that each piece will be completely one-of-a-kind, like a "sweet gem never to be repeated," hence the name 'bonbon'. Pascale is also preparing to unveil a bridal collection named Les Amours d'Elle, which has a romantic and slightly different feel for the brand. With so much to look forward to, now's the time to familiarise yourself with the Histoire d'Elle aesthetic and decide which pieces have your heart.
WORDS
Sarah Jordan has specialised in content writing, editing and branded storytelling for a range of businesses, including De Beers Jewellery, Sotheby’s, the Natural Diamond Council and Gem-A. She is also the founder of her own specialist copywriting business, The William Agency.
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