In a cozy little cottage on Round Top’s Henkel Square sits Mallory et Cie, a haven for those drawn to beautiful baubles, bespoke jewelry and all things authentically French.

Owned by Mallory Nicholson, the business — which translates to “Mallory and Company” — specializes in jewelry and curios crafted from unusual items and customized to suit one’s tastes. Antique firemen’s belt buckles, rhinestone earrings from the 1940s and well-worn coins and medals have all found their way into handmade creations. And no two pieces are exactly alike.

“I translate the unique items I find into more modern, wearable pieces,” Mallory explained. “I love things that tell a story.”

Although jewelry-making might have blossomed into a full-fledged career, the artist’s pursuit began as a way to pass time.

It was about 12 years ago when her mother, Stephany Hamrell, suffered a stroke and required added care. Mallory, whose California home was a few hours away from her mother’s in San Diego, packed up and moved in. With no friends in the area and a desire to keep busy, the doting daughter picked up a hobby.

“My mom had collected jewelry making books, beads and tools for 20 years, so I had everything I needed to get started,” she said. “I literally taught myself. But her friends would come over and buy my pieces, and I began doing some shows. People liked what I was making.”

As word got out and popularity grew, Mallory’s pastime progressed toward business status.

A move to Houston saw the artist making her rounds at Texas shows — including right here in Round Top. Mallory’s Round Top debut began at The Arbors around 2002, a venue where she remained for years. And although her travels took her to shows across the U.S., Round Top had a special pull.

It was 2017 when she officially set down roots in the town that’s big time small. Then, when the COVID-19 pandemic set in in 2020 — and the shows ceased — she decided it was time for a storefront.

Today, her shop at 110 Schumann Lane offers custom jewelry, interesting objects and apparel, too. Its French country feel harkens back to her family’s Marseilles background and her long-held love of the country.

And the overall feel? It’s a welcoming one. She wants her visitors to feel like guests.

“I’m an only child, and I never had any kids, so I think this was my way to right that,” Mallory said with a laugh. “This is my opportunity to have lots of people over at my house.”

And Round Top, she said, really has become home — especially with her mother now residing nearby and helping out at the shop as she can.

“I love the fact that you can be exactly who you are here in Round Top, and that there’s a customer for what you do,” she said. “My favorite thing is connecting with people and sharing stories. It makes my day when someone comes in and asks, ‘Remember me?’”

Mallory et Cie is open Wednesday through Sunday every week of the year, and every day of the Round Top Antiques Show. It is available for private parties during the antiques show, as well. For more information, visit the company’s Instagram page, call 832.525.6828 or email [email protected].