Meet the Makers

Ayala Naphtali Jewelry celebrates artistry, sustainability, and innovation from East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. A lifelong New Yorker, Ayala is both a metalsmith and co-curator of adornaxis, with work exhibited nationally and internationally in galleries, museums, and design stores.

Ayala began making jewelry as a teenager, later studying gold and silversmithing at FIT and SUNY New Paltz. Over the years, her pieces have been collected by Cooper Hewitt, featured in major craft shows, and published in leading design magazines. Her journey reflects decades of dedication to craft and creativity.

What makes her business distinctive is its commitment to renewable materials. From coconut shells to natural fibers, Ayala transforms unexpected sources into sculptural jewelry using traditional metalsmithing techniques. “Often the material itself is the inspiration—in its color, texture, and versatility,” she shares.

As a woman running a metal and jewelry fabrication studio, Ayala has often faced bias. “Even something as simple as walking into a hardware store can be challenging,” she notes. Yet these experiences fuel her mission to empower other women to see themselves as capable makers and artists.

What’s next: Ayala is partnering with West Harlem Arts Fund to develop a makerspace in Harlem—expanding her vision of craft as community, empowerment, and shared creativity.