Meet the Makers

Alzerina Jewelry is redefining what jewelry can mean. Founded by Cape Verdean-born designer Alzerina Gomes, the NYC-based brand blends culture, empowerment, and artistry—offering both handcrafted pieces and jewelry-making classes that double as spaces for creativity and healing.

Alzerina’s path began in Paris at Daniel Swarovski, where she fell in love with craftsmanship. After moving to New York, jewelry-making became a source of strength during a difficult chapter in her life. A sold-out first exhibition showed her the power of her work, sparking the creation of a brand rooted in resilience and storytelling.

Each piece is lovingly made in NYC, often featuring the conta di ojo, a traditional Cape Verdean bead symbolizing protection. But Alzerina’s impact goes beyond design—her wellness-focused classes invite people to relax, express themselves, and discover confidence through their own hands.

Alzerina envisions expanding her classes to reach more communities, both in the U.S. and internationally, and collaborating with other women-owned businesses to amplify culture, sustainability, and social impact.

As a minority woman entrepreneur, she has faced barriers to resources and recognition. Yet these challenges have fueled her drive to uplift others. “Every obstacle can become a lesson that makes you stronger,” she says. In the future, she hopes to expand her classes globally and collaborate with fellow women-owned brands to amplify culture, sustainability, and social impact.