Alexandra da Fonseca-Klein originally wanted to become an architect.

Growing up in Lisbon, she was always making and creating. Wood, textiles, straw gathered from the fields, shells and pebbles collected on the beach – almost any material could become the starting point for something new. That fascination with form, texture, materials and the natural world has stayed with her and continues to influence her work today.

Her professional journey, however, initially took a rather different direction. Alexandra studied Law in Lisbon before moving to Germany. What she took with her from those years has proved surprisingly relevant to her later profession: precision, perseverance and a desire to understand things thoroughly.

In Germany, Alexandra began to immerse herself in the craft of goldsmithing. Over many years she took private tuition with professional goldsmiths, studied extensively from specialist books, practised, experimented and continually developed her skills. She had already established and run her own studio in Hanover for almost ten years before moving to England.

There, she decided to deepen her knowledge even further. At Leeds Metropolitan University, Alexandra studied for a BA (Hons) in 3D Design, specialising in Jewellery and Ceramics, graduating with First Class Honours. The course combined intensive hands-on making with design, material research and contemporary methods of production. Alongside her university studies, she continued to take private tuition with experienced goldsmiths.

During her degree, Alexandra became particularly interested in the relationship between traditional craftsmanship and digital technology – a subject that also became central to her dissertation and remains an important part of the way she works today.

While still completing her final university work, Alexandra opened her own studio in Yorkshire. She went on to run her goldsmithing studio and shop there for many years, creating one-of-a-kind pieces and collections while also beginning to pass on her knowledge through teaching.

Today Alexandra is once again based in Germany. In her goldsmithing studio on the River Elbe, she brings together traditional goldsmithing, three-dimensional design and modern manufacturing techniques. From the first sketch and model through to casting and the finished piece, many of the processes take place directly in her own workshop.

One thing has remained unchanged throughout the years: her curiosity, her love of discovering new materials and techniques, and the pleasure of turning an idea into something deeply personal.

Alongside her own collections and bespoke commissions, Alexandra shares her experience through goldsmithing courses, one-to-one tuition and professional training.

I just love creating something special for someone special. Nature is my role model.