We recently connected with Alexandra Zone and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alexandra thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

As a kid, I was always running off to draw or paint—any chance I got, I’d disappear into my own little world, lost in creating. It didn’t matter if it was crayons, paint, or whatever I could get my hands on—I just wanted to make something. At one point, I thought I wanted to be a vet. I loved animals, and it seemed like the right path. But even then, I knew, deep down, that my heart belonged to art.
I also knew from a young age that I wanted to work for myself. The idea of carving my own path, doing something on my own terms, always called to me. But like most things, life has a way of shifting your focus. I lost sight of that for a while, got caught up in the idea of what I should be doing instead of what I truly wanted. Even so, creativity was always there, woven into my life in ways I didn’t fully realize at the time.
I found my way back in small but meaningful ways—modeling, wire-wrapping jewelry, photography, painting. It was never just a hobby; it was a part of who I was. Every new thing I learned, every creative outlet I explored, shaped me in ways I didn’t expect. But I never imagined that one day, I’d be creating art that people wear—that something I made with my own hands could help someone see themselves differently, could make them feel more connected to their own uniqueness.
Now, looking at this little business I’ve built, I feel so damn proud. It’s not just about making jewelry—it’s about telling stories, capturing moments, creating something that means something to the person wearing it. My 10-year-old self, sitting on the floor with a pile of colored pencils, would be in awe. She wouldn’t believe that at 35, I’d be doing this—chasing my dreams, learning something new every day, and making it happen. And honestly? I think she’d be really, really proud..

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I got into metalsmithing almost three years ago, completely by chance. I took a class at my local botanical gardens on how to make a ring using basic silversmithing techniques, and from the moment I picked up the tools, I was hooked. I left that class wanting to learn everything I could, and I dove in headfirst—practicing, experimenting, and pushing myself to grow. What started as a simple class turned into something so much bigger, something that feels like it was meant for me all along.
Now, I create unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry meant to be worn and lived in—pieces that bring out confidence in the wearer and feel like they belong to them and no one else. Every piece I make is made with intention, carrying its own story, its own energy. I want my customers to know that their jewelry isn’t just another accessory—it’s theirs, something truly special. I also offer custom pieces, working one-on-one to bring a vision to life in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
What sets my work apart is the balance between bold, yet wearable designs and the personal connection I build with my customers. My jewelry isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about self-expression, identity, and empowerment. Whether it’s a piece that speaks to someone’s journey, a custom creation made just for them, or a ring that simply feels right the moment they put it on—I want people to feel something when they wear my work.
I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve built from the ground up. I never imagined that the creative spark I had as a kid would grow into something like this—a brand that allows me to keep learning, growing, and connecting with people in such a meaningful way. My 10-year-old self would be in awe.
For those discovering my work for the first time, Alchemical Metalworks is about more than just jewelry. It’s about individuality, craftsmanship, and creating pieces that resonate on a deeper level. Whether you’re drawn to the textures, the symbolism, or the simple fact that you’ve never seen anything quite like it before—every piece is made with care, intention, and a little bit of magic.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

The best way to support artists and creatives is to truly value their work. Too often, people expect handmade art to be cheap or done for exposure, but creating takes time, skill, and effort. Supporting artists means paying them fairly and recognizing that their work is their livelihood.
Another big way to support artists is by engaging with their work. If you follow an artist, take a moment to like, comment, and share their posts—even if it’s not something you’d buy. It helps more than you think. It shows that you see their work, value it, and believe it’s worth sharing. Small actions like these help artists reach more people and keep doing what they love.
At the end of the day, supporting artists is simple—buy from them, share their work, respect their time, and help creativity grow. When artists thrive, communities thrive.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing non-creatives might struggle to understand is just how much time, effort, and emotional energy goes into creating. It’s not just about making something—it’s about constantly learning, experimenting, failing, and trying again. Every piece I create carries hours of practice, problem-solving, and a deep personal connection. It’s not just a product; it’s a part of me.
Another thing is the unpredictability of this path. Being a creative isn’t like having a traditional job with a set salary. There are ups and downs, slow seasons, and times when self-doubt creeps in. But the drive to create never goes away. That’s what keeps me going—even when things are uncertain, I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Also, art isn’t just “fun” or a “hobby” for many of us—it’s a real career. The idea that creative work should be free or cheap because “it’s something you love to do” is frustrating. Loving what I do doesn’t mean it’s easy or that it doesn’t deserve fair compensation.
If there’s one thing I’d want non-creatives to understand, it’s this: Art and creativity are work—real, valuable, and deeply meaningful work. It takes dedication, resilience, and a willingness to keep pushing forward, even when the path isn’t clear.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alchemicalmetalworks.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alchemicalmetalworks
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alchemicalmetalworks
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/alchemicalmetalworks/
  https://www.tiktok.com/@alchemicalmetalworks

Image Credits

images by myself and Oakriver Media