JA announces winners of 2008 Affiliate Design Competition

Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the winners of its 18th annual Affiliate Design Competition, held during the JA New York Show, March 9-11. Designers from Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin took home the first place prizes in four categories (based on the cost of materials used): $1,000 and under; $1,001-$3,000; $3,001 and over; and a Buyer’s Choice Award.

The Affiliate Design Competition features unique jewelry that has won design contests sponsored by JA’s regional affiliates throughout 2007. This year, Jewelers of America expanded the competition by allowing submissions from member jewelers whose affiliate organization did not hold a local competition.

A panel of industry experts judged the 30 entries on craftsmanship, marketability, practicality/wearability and overall design. JA New York attendees determined the fourth honor, the Buyers’ Choice Award, with a separate ballot. This year, the designers displayed an inclination for innovative designs. Many pieces involved movement and complex construction, while others emphasized elaborate detail, like the winner of the $3,001 and over category: a necklace and earrings set with hundreds of pave diamonds in a flowing leaf design.

Jewelers of America is pleased to recognize the talents of regional jewelers, whose designs demonstrate the remarkable jewelry available from our members nationwide, says JA Chairman John Green, Lux Bond and Green. We congratulate all of the contestants on their award-winning designs, he said.

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