French jewelry Maison Les Néréides officially introduced its world of artistry, nature-inspired designs, and Parisian craftsmanship to the Philippines at Rustan’s on October 9. Leading the brand’s local presence are Ma. Camille Navarro Makasiar, owner and executive director of Les Néréides Philippines, and Olivia Banzon, creative director in the Philippines.
Known for transforming elements of nature into intricate wearable art, Les Néréides draws inspiration from delicate flowers, graceful butterflies, and charming woodland creatures. Its creations combine vibrant colors, hand-painted details, and imaginative designs, offering a playful yet sophisticated approach to jewelry that encourages women to express their individuality.
From Artistic Beginnings To Parisian Craftsmanship
Founded in Nice, France, in 1980 by artists Pascale Chavepeyer and Enzo Amaddeo, Les Néréides grew from the couple’s shared passion for art and nature. Their vision transformed jewelry into miniature works of art, establishing the distinctive aesthetic that continues to define the Maison today.
More than four decades later, the family remains at the heart of the brand. Their son, Pier-Paolo Amaddeo, carries forward the Maison’s artistic legacy as artistic director, while Bianca Amaddeo oversees its visual identity and Valentina Amaddeo contributes to the development of its jewelry creations. Nina Amaddeo helped expand the family’s vision beyond France through the establishment of its English subsidiary.
Every collection begins in the Parisian creative studio, where inspiration from nature, art, and fashion takes shape through detailed illustrations. The finished pieces feature a luminous 18-carat gold finish, intricate hand-painted motifs, and carefully selected decorative elements. Ornamental painters build up layers of color to bring flowers and other designs to life, while crystals and glass stones add brilliance to the creations.
A Garden Of Whimsy: Discover The Collections
From delicate spring blossoms to the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside, Les Néréides’ collections celebrate the beauty of nature through jewelry rich in color, detail, and storytelling.
Hanami: A Celebration Of Spring
Inspired by the fleeting beauty of Japanese cherry blossoms, Hanami captures the romance of spring through hand-painted floral jewelry. White blossoms, soft pink accents, and graceful butterflies appear across necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, bringing a delicate touch to everyday dressing.
Vincent’s Irises: Art In Full Bloom
Drawing inspiration from the celebrated works of Vincent van Gogh, Vincent’s Irises translates the flower’s graceful silhouette into intricately crafted jewelry. Striking blue and purple irises lend artistic character to necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings.
A Thousand Pansies: A Flourish Of Color
A longtime favorite of the Maison, the pansy takes center stage in this vibrant collection. Blossoms in shades of blue, violet, and pink are paired with freshwater pearls, creating pieces that balance floral charm with a touch of baroque elegance.
Provence Garden: A Taste Of The French Countryside
Inspired by the gardens of Provence, this collection evokes the warmth and charm of the French countryside. Mimosa blossoms, orange flowers, colorful fruits, and lush greenery come together in detailed compositions reminiscent of leisurely summer days beneath the Mediterranean sun.
Enchanted Encounter: Into The Whimsical Woods
Inspired by the wonder of childhood, Enchanted Encounter brings a playful woodland world to life. Little rabbits appear among delicate flowers and colorful leaves across necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, turning each piece into a charming story.
Lovely Lemon: A Touch Of Mediterranean Sunshine
Bright and cheerful, Lovely Lemon celebrates the beauty of sun-ripened citrus fruits. Golden lemons, delicate blossoms, and lush greenery capture the carefree spirit of Mediterranean summers, adding a refreshing splash of color to any ensemble.
Beyond Jewelry: A Fragrant Creative Universe
Les Néréides extends its distinctive aesthetic into fragrance with a collection of eaux de parfum inspired by the same themes of nature, color, and storytelling found in its jewelry.
Featured scents include Vanille Bleue, Bois de Songes, Musc Héliodore, Lune Rousse, and Fleurs de Peau. Each fragrance draws inspiration from a Les Néréides jewel or motif, with references ranging from aquatic florals and butterflies to heliodore stones, celestial forms, and red hellebore blooms.
The fragrance collection is currently available online through The Social Manila, with in-store availability planned for the future.
Looking ahead to 2027, Les Néréides Philippines will also introduce a special journal created by creative director Olivia Banzon as a gift with purchase. Designed as more than a keepsake, the journal invites customers to incorporate the Maison’s whimsical creations into everyday life and document the personal stories and moments associated with the pieces they wear.
A Love For Nature That Goes Beyond Jewelry
The Maison’s appreciation for the natural world extends beyond its designs through the Les Néréides Loves Animals Foundation, established by the Amaddeo family to support animal welfare.
Each season, the brand releases an exclusive jewelry collection, with a portion of the proceeds donated to the foundation. These contributions help fund animal sanctuaries and shelters that protect abandoned, endangered, and sick animals, connecting the Maison’s creative work with its commitment to animal welfare.
With its Philippine debut at Rustan’s, Les Néréides brings a distinctive expression of French artistry to local jewelry enthusiasts. From delicate floral designs to whimsical statement pieces, the Maison offers a world where craftsmanship, imagination, and a love of nature come together in wearable art.
