Judging Jewels at the AGTA Spectrum Awards

This week, the American Gem Trade Association announced the winners of this year's AGTA Spectrum Awards competition. Known as one of the most prestigious awards in the jewelry industry, the AGTA competition showcases the beauty of colored gemstones and recognizes the designs of established artists and rising stars of the jewelry industry.

This year, I was thrilled to be chosen as one of five judges of the competition. Alongisde fellow judges Tanya Dukes, Style Editor of Elite Traveler Magazine, Master Gem Cutter Glenn Lehrer and designers Mallary Marks and Robin Rotenier, we had the glorious task of choosing winners out of hundreds of outstanding entries in five categories.

Naturally, as someone who is more than a little obsessed with color, gemstones, and jewelry judging, this competition was like a dream come true. Never have I seen such a spectacular array of colored gemstone jewelry and such prestigious and innovative pieces in one place. The quality, craftmanship, and artistry of the entries were truly inspirational and gave me much excitement and anticipation for the future standards and trends these pieces are sure to set in the jewelry industry.


Two of my favorites were:

Todd Reed's palladium cuff bracelet with aquamarine and diamonds, the Best of Show winner. The bright aquamarine stone really stands out against the unique color and texture of the palladium metal. I also love the combination of gray and white diamonds.

2nd Place winner in the Evening Wear category, Evelyn Clothier's 18K yellow gold earrings with Aquamarine briolettes and diamond accents. The size and quality of the aquamarine gem (50.95 ctw.) was astounding within itself, and looked beautiful inside the cage-like yellow gold structure.

All of the winners deserve to be seen; to view more of the Spectrum Awards' gorgeous pieces, visit the AGTA Facebook Page.

Sparkingly yours,

Jennifer