CARLSBAD, Calif. – Jan. 7, 2011 – GIA (Gemological Institute of America) recently announced the winners of the annual George A. Schuetz Jewelry Design Contest. The international competition, which recognizes the best original men’s jewelry and accessories designs, is named in honor of the late men’s jewelry designer George A. Schuetz, Sr.
Contestants from all corners of the globe entered the competition. The winning entries represent three continents: Australia, Asia and Europe.
Karl Williams of Wellington, New Zealand, captured the first place award with a bold ring design that features a 1.5 ct. center-cut diamond offset by eight .25 ct. side diamonds (above). The striking rendition provided by Williams combines a platinum band with 18 ct. yellow gold segments and rivets.
“It is an absolute honor to take first place in such a prestigious international design competition,” Williams said. “I believe the scope for design in men’s jewelry is extensive, and the Schuetz contest encourages designers to push creativity to the limit. I would like to thank GIA for sponsoring the contest, as it provides an incredible opportunity for designers to earn recognition for their work.”
Open to all designers, the Schuetz contest is judged by an independent panel of industry experts that evaluates each entry’s form, wearability, manufacturability and appeal. Winners receive a crystal plaque commemorating their achievement; the first place award winner also receives $500.
The second place award went to Clarrie Yap of Pokfulam, Hong Kong. Yap, who recently earned a GIA Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) diploma, was chosen for an intricate ring design that highlights the beauty of an urban landscape. Elena Lorenzi, a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (A.J.P.) from Ventimiglia, Italy, claimed the third place award with an elegant pendant made of white gold and onyx.
Established in 1973, the competition pays tribute to Schuetz and gives GIA an opportunity to advance the dreams and goals of young designers.
“We’re proud to host the contest each year to celebrate the contributions Mr. Schuetz made to men’s jewelry design,” said Robert Ackermann, a GIA jewelry design instructor who directed the 2010 competition. “GIA is committed to fostering individuals within the industry, and a large part of that is encouraging young designers to take creative risks and expand their horizons.”
To enter the competition, contestants are asked to submit one original color design rendering that has not been previously exhibited or offered for sale. Entries can be submitted each year between April 15 and June 15. There is no fee to enter. Entry forms for the 2011 George A. Schuetz Design Contest will be available April 15.
To view the article on the GIA website vist http://www.gia.edu/nav/toolbar/newsroom/news-releases/2011-news-releases/gia-announces-winners-of-annual-schuetz-jewelry-design-contest.html
