Efigmia, Kefalonia (Greece) 2008
Hi there. My name is Maribelle Costes. Born and raised in the beautiful islands of the Philippines. I’ve been making things with my hands since age six. My grandfather taught me how to use the saw, hammer, anvil, and pliers. He was a pyrite miner in the 40’s and was a great cook. My grandmother taught me how to weave with palm fronds, and showed me how to work her Singer sewing machine. She was a school teacher with the biggest heart. I miss them.

FIT and Hunter College alumni. It took me six years to finish while I sold my hand-crafted jewelry on Broadway and Houston Street in the early 90’s. Art, design and  guerilla marketing led me to start a business, BELLE COSTES NYC in 1993 and so here we are, thousands of pieces of jewelry made since, reaching as far back as Japan, and Australia.

I believe in creating something from a vision inspired by the ebb and flow of my surroundings, and add to that a thing called passion for simplicity that equates to beauty. I love what I do, and I appreciate your appreciation. With sincere gratitude…

Belle