In the heart of Peru, where the natural beauty of its landscapes is matched only by the richness of its cultural heritage, Katerina Nordgaard Masias is redefining luxury jewelry through her brand, Atelier Zelmira. Named in loving memory of her grandmother, Denise Zelmira Marie Guislain—a talented jewelry designer whose creative spirit continues to inspire Katerina—Atelier Zelmira is more than a jewelry line; it is a vibrant tribute to Peruvian craftsmanship, sustainability, and the stories each piece tells.
Katerina’s journey to create Atelier Zelmira stems from a deep appreciation for the traditions of jewelry making that have been passed down through generations in her homeland. With a mission to create enduring objects that resonate with purpose, she collaborates closely with skilled local artisans in Peru. Together, they breathe life into each design, thoughtfully crafting pieces that reflect the unique character of their surroundings.
Atelier Zelmira’s collection + the profound commitment to ocean conservation: each piece is crafted using sustainably sourced Mother of Pearl shells, gathered through an innovative ocean harvesting project led by the Inkaterra Asociación (ITA). This initiative, rooted in the northern coast of Peru, not only highlights the breathtaking natural splendor of Cabo Blanco but also embodies a mission that extends far beyond the jewelry itself.
ITA works in partnership with the National Fishing and Aquaculture Innovation Program (PNIPA), AGROMAR, and the Cabo Blanco Artisanal Fishing Association to promote the harvest of native bivalve mollusks for pearl production and nacre-derived products. This sustainable approach ensures that the local fishing communities can thrive while the ocean’s ecosystems are preserved for future generations. It’s a beautiful synergy of ocean conservation and responsible craftsmanship that defines Atelier Zelmira.
Katerina emphasizes that no two jewelry pieces are alike—each preserves the organic beauty of the shell, celebrating its unique hues, textures, and shapes. This individuality is a hallmark of the brand, as artisans thoughtfully shape each design to highlight the shell’s elegance. The meticulous crafting process ensures that nothing is wasted, and every fragment finds a purpose, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability. In this way, Atelier Zelmira not only offers exquisite pieces but also champions a circular economy within the jewelry industry. Through her designs, Katerina captures the essence of Peru’s diverse landscapes and the stories woven into its cultural fabric. Atelier Zelmira is a celebration of the quiet power of jewelry—a means of expression that transcends mere adornment. Each piece tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and the harmonious relationship between nature and artistry.
Katerina Nordgaard is carving out a niche that honors the past while forging a path to a sustainable future. Atelier Zelmira serves as a reminder of the beauty that can emerge when craftsmanship, conservation, and community converge. By choosing to wear Atelier Zelmira jewelry, one not only adorns themselves with a unique piece of art but also participates in a larger narrative of environmental stewardship and cultural appreciation.
As we conclude our conversation with Katerina, her passion for her craft and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world are palpable. Atelier Zelmira is not just a brand; it embodies a vision for a more sustainable future, where jewelry can tell stories, celebrate authenticity, and preserve the natural environment for generations to come:
Can you share with us the personal journey that led you to establish Atelier Zelmira, particularly the influence of your grandmother Denise Zelmira Marie Guislain on your artistic vision and business ethos?
My grandmother, Denise Zelmira, was my idol growing up. She had an extraordinary eye for perfection – every detail mattered to her. As both an interior designer and a jewellery designer, she approached everything she touched with intention, care, and an almost sacred level of precision. It was through her that I fell in love with design.
She worked closely with local jewellers and artisans in Lima, building relationships that were founded on deep respect. These were not transactional partnerships, there was a real bond between them, one that honoured the skill, knowledge, and cultural heritage each artisan brought to the table.
When she passed away in May of 2024, I felt an immense and almost immediate urge to start something in her name. That day, a clear vision of Atelier Zelmira was born – not just as a tribute to her, but as a continuation of her legacy. Since then, I’ve reconnected with the artisans she collaborated with – many of whom I had met as a child – and we’ve continued to develop the collections together. These are people who knew her well, who carry her spirit in their hands and hearts, and who now walk this journey with me.
Every time I design or craft a piece, I feel her beside me – as if she’s guiding my hand. Atelier Zelmira is not just about jewellery; it’s a living story. It’s about the authenticity and magnificence of Peru, which she so lovingly shared with me. Her story, and the story of Peru, live on through every creation. It’s a story that deserves to be told.
In what ways do you feel that the rich heritage of Peruvian craftsmanship informs your jewelry designs, and how do you ensure that this cultural significance is reflected in each piece you create?
Peruvian craftsmanship is at the heart of everything I create. Working closely with artisans in Lima, many of whom have been handcrafting jewellery for decades, means their knowledge and expertise shape each piece just as much as mine. Our process is a true collaboration, and the cultural significance is present not just in the inspiration or aesthetic, but in the very way each piece is made – by hand, with care, precision, and pride.
Having grown up between Peru and abroad, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the country. That connection is woven into every part of the design process. I draw inspiration from Peru’s rich history, often researching pre-Columbian jewellery and the visual languages of ancient cultures like the Mochica, Paracas, and Chavín. Their symbolism, techniques, and forms are incredibly sophisticated and still resonate today.
The materials we use are sourced in Peru, and each piece is made by Peruvian hands. There’s a certain soul in that process. Every creation carries the essence of Peru, not just as a place, but as a living heritage. It’s not about replicating the past, but honouring it and giving it a new voice through contemporary design.
Sustainability is a key pillar of your brand. Could you elaborate on the specific steps Atelier Zelmira takes to minimize its environmental impact and how this philosophy has shaped your production methods?
Atelier Zelmira was born out of a desire to create something responsible, a brand that actively contributes to the environment and the communities we work with. From the beginning, conservation has been a core pillar of the brand. I didn’t want to extract from Peru, I wanted to nourish it, to give back more than we take.
A key part of our sustainability practice is ensuring that everyone involved in the production process is paid fairly and treated with respect. We work closely with local artisans, building long- term relationships that support their craft and livelihoods.
We also collaborate with the NGO Inkaterra Asociación (ITA), alongside the National Fishing and Aquaculture Innovation Program (PNIPA), AGROMAR, and the Cabo Blanco Artisanal Fishing Association. Together, we support an initiative that promotes the sustainable harvest of native bivalve mollusks for mother-of-pearl production. It’s a circular, regenerative system and our goal is to use as much of the mother-of-pearl shell as possible to keep supporting this work.
One challenge we’re still working on is sourcing recycled silver. In Peru, it’s not yet widely accessible, and while we strive to use recycled silver whenever possible, there are times when we must rely on sterling silver. It’s an ongoing process, and we’re committed to finding better solutions, constantly researching and adapting to move closer to 100% sustainable metals. Sustainability isn’t a fixed achievement, it’s a practice. And at Atelier Zelmira, it informs every decision we make.
How did you develop partnerships with local artisans in Peru, and what challenges and rewards have you encountered in collaborating with these skilled craftsmen and women?
The partnership with local artisans in Peru began long before Atelier Zelmira existed. When I was just a child, I watched my grandmother work. She collaborated closely with skilled jewellers and artisans in Lima.
After she passed in 2024, it felt natural and deeply meaningful to reconnect with those same artisans, who knew me from a young age. Continuing the relationship with them felt likestepping back into something familiar and sacred. Over time, the partnership has grown organically. We’ve welcomed new members into the process, including family members of the original artisans, creating a beautiful collaboration.
Working together comes with its own set of challenges. Coordinating across time zones, adapting traditional methods to contemporary designs, or facing limitations in material sourcing but the rewards far outweigh them. These artisans bring a level of skill, intuition, and cultural knowledge that’s irreplaceable. Every design becomes richer through their input.
The use of sustainably sourced Mother of Pearl shells is a notable aspect of your products. Can you discuss the ocean harvesting project with the Inkaterra Association and how this initiative benefits both the environment and local communities?
One of the most meaningful aspects of our work at Atelier Zelmira is our collaboration with the Inkaterra Asociación (ITA), a Peruvian NGO dedicated to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Together with the National Fishing and Aquaculture Innovation Program (PNIPA), AGROMAR, and the Cabo Blanco Artisanal Fishing Association, we support an ocean conservation initiative along the northern coast of Peru, in Cabo Blanco.
This project focuses on the sustainable harvest of native bivalve mollusks for mother-of-pearl production. But more than just a method of material sourcing, ocean harvesting plays a vital role in ecological restoration. Bivalves such as clams, oysters, and scallops are natural filter feeders.
They help clean the water, stabilise the seafloor, and create habitats for other marine life. Through this initiative, native mollusk populations are being reintroduced and responsibly cultivated, which in turn helps restore the health and biodiversity of the marine ecosystem. Ocean harvesting also provides a powerful alternative to extractive and harmful fishing practices that have historically depleted the area’s resources. It’s a regenerative, circular approach, one that supports marine life while also creating sustainable income for the local community. This project has already begun to reshape Cabo Blanco’s relationship with the ocean.
Fishermen and their families are now engaged in practices that protect the sea rather than exploit it. At Atelier Zelmira, we are proud to contribute to this transformation. Our Cabo Blanco Collection features sustainably sourced mother-of-pearl shells from this initiative, and we make it a point to use as much of the shell as possible in our designs. Each piece carries a story of ecological renewal and community empowerment. A reminder that beauty can, and should, exist in harmony with nature.
Jewelry often carries personal significance and stories. What narratives or emotions do you hope to convey through your creations, and how do you envision customers connecting with those stories?
At Atelier Zelmira, every piece is designed to be more than an object of adornment. It’s a vessel of memory, meaning, and connection. Through our creations, I hope to share the story of Peru, a country whose history, culture, biodiversity are nothing short of extraordinary.
Each piece reflects not only my own journey, but also the deep soul of Peru. The material echoes ancient civilisations, the textures are drawn from its rich land and sea, and the craftsmanship is the work of skilled hands, artisans whose techniques and traditions have been passed down for generations.
“At the heart of our brand is the belief that beauty can, and should, exist in harmony with nature. I want people to feel that when they wear our pieces. To sense the energy of the Andes, the rhythm of the Pacific, the wisdom of ancestral cultures. I want our jewellery to connect people to something real and lasting. Soulful. My hope is that each customer finds a personal story in what we create. Whether it’s a connection to the earth, to craft, to heritage, or to someone they love.” – Atelier Zelmira
Looking towards the future of Atelier Zelmira, what aspirations do you have for the brand in terms of expanding your impact on both the jewellery industry and the communities you collaborate with, and how do you see your grandmother’s legacy continuing to inspire this journey?
Looking toward the future of Atelier Zelmira, my aspiration is to deepen our impact, both within the jewellery industry and in the communities we collaborate with in Peru. My hope is to expand our network of artisan partnerships, continuing to build meaningful, long-term relationships rooted in respect, shared knowledge, and mutual growth.
One of our next goals is to collaborate with conservation projects in the Amazon, not only to help protect this vital ecosystem but also to responsibly source unique materials that carry the spirit of the region. We’re also actively working toward using 100% sustainable silver. Seeking out a fully traceable, ethical supply chain that aligns with our values of regeneration and responsibility.
At the heart of all of this is my grandmother. She is the reason I began this journey, and she continues to guide every step of it. Her values: authenticity, beauty, precision, and integrity are the foundation of Atelier Zelmira. I do this for her. Her legacy lives on not only through the pieces we create, but in the way we create them: with heart, with intention, and with the dream of a more beautiful and conscious future.
SHOP ATELIER ZELMIRA HERE
Shop Atelier Zelmira HERE : https://atelierzelmira.com
Follow Atelier Zelmira HERE
33 MAGAZINE 