IGI Is Kicking Off Its 2022 Design Competition

New York—The International Gemological Institute will soon launch its online jewelry design competition, the 2022 IGI Expressions Awards.

The competition is free to participate and open to all designers, from students to experienced professionals.

“IGI has been grading diamonds and gemstones for over 45 years,” said IGI CEO Roland Lorie.

“We also certify finished jewelry and recognize the vital role creativity plays in using gemstones to move and inspire others. We are pleased to offer the IGI Expressions Awards again, inviting jewelry enthusiasts around the world to participate and be recognized as IGI continues to encourage and support creative talent.”

This year, the competition’s theme is “renewal.” Designs should represent regeneration or rejuvenation, IGI said.

There are three categories in the competition: Lightweight Jewelry, Statement Piece, and Accessory.

Within those categories, different segments allow for different submission types. Designers can submit hand-drawn sketches, computer assisted design (CAD) files, or iPad files.

The institute is accepting submissions beginning Oct. 31 through Nov. 30.

About 40 to 50 designs will be chosen as finalists. Then, nine champions will be selected, one from each category and each type of submission.

The 2022 judges are: Sarah Francois-Poncet, Shaikha Dalia Zaal Al Marri, Donna Hourani, Varuna D Jani, Laksh Pahuja, Chris Ploof, and Kyle Roderick.

The international jury represents different viewpoints across the globe, just as IGI operates its 20 labs and 14 education facilities throughout the world’s major jewelry capitols.

Last year, the IGI Expressions Awards received more than 550 entries from 21 countries.

This year’s nine winners will have their designs fabricated and receive a $500 check, an IGI Expressions trophy, a certificate, and 3-D prints of the design, as well as recognition across IGI’s various social channels.

The winners will be announced on Dec. 13.

All submissions will receive an IGI Expressions Certificate, while the 40 to 50 finalists will receive Finalist certificates plus coverage on IGI’s channels.

Entries should be submitted online.