For the 40th year in a row, The American Gem Trade Association is hosting a special jewelry design competition, Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards. The focus of this contest is multicolored gemstones and pearls. As the name suggests, the competition has two major divisions: Spectrum Awards and Cutting Edge Awards. As per usual tradition, those who receive the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, as well as honorable mentions, will be considered winners.
The winning entrants will be recognized in several “best of” categories, such as evening wear, day wear, men’s jewelry, bridal pieces, and some others. Nominations among non-wearables will include pieces of art, carving, faceting, and matching items.
At least two additional awards will be given to encourage the works of female designers as well as those featuring platinum. Complimentary awards include Editor’s Choice and Buyer’s Choice, however, they won’t be given until some special events that will be hosted several months after the contest.
Given how prestigious this competition is, it’s no wonder that winning entrants of previous years have received worldwide fame in the jewelry circles. Many of their works are now displayed at exclusive auctions and are bringing their creators millions of dollars.
The judging panel consists of high-profile specialists (CEOs and Presidents of famous luxury jewelry-making companies, Gemological Institute representatives, and some others). The competition itself is widely covered in the media and makes headlines every year.
Although the prospect of winning a trophy is a long-coveted dream of many designers, this honor is not reserved for many. The bar is raised very high, and the entries should be nothing short of impeccable.
Winner 2023 in the Classic category Jeffrey Bilgore, LLC – Platinum Ring featuring a 3.49 ct. Colombian Emerald and a 3.36 ct. Diamond accented with Diamonds (0.43 ctw.)
Winner 2023 in the Bridal Wear category. Adam Neeley Fine Art Jewelry, Inc. – Platinum ring featuring a 12.24 ct. Aquamarine accented with Akoya Pearls and Diamonds (1.00 ctw.)
Winner 2023 in the Business and Day Wear category. Gabriel Angulo, Pompos Jewelry Corporation – 18K yellow gold ring featuring a 2.39 ct. Colombian Emerald and Diamonds (1.52 ctw.)
Submissions are accepted till September 20 and October 9 for early and late entries respectively (the dates have been changed compared to the original rules). The first entry fee is 265 dollars for early birds and 295 dollars for “late birds” (all subsequent entries have lower fees). In order to be eligible, one must have US or Canadian citizenship and be a qualified jewelry designer. To avoid any surprises, please consult the Association’s website to see the list of all the requirements.
If you feel like you want to try out your hand and compete with some of the most brilliant designers, we invite you to submit your projects for the chance to win one of the most honorary awards in the history of the global jewelry market. Olertis will cross its fingers for you, may designer luck be on your side!
