The American Jewelry Design Council is accepting applications for its annual New Talent Contest. The winner is awarded a booth in the New Designer Gallery at the Jewelers of America New York Summer Show, July 26-29 at the Javits Convention Center.

The winner is the focus of extensive media attention. This high-profile competition has successfully launched the careers of past winners such as Zoltan David, Todd Reed, Sarah Graham, and Brian Sholdt. In addition, the winner receives professional support from members of the AJDC on making the step to larger markets.

The American Jewelry Design Council is a group of over thirty nationally prominent designers whose mission is to promote the art of jewelry. In coordination with Jewelers of America, this contest each year presents a single outstanding designer to national and international jewelry buyers.

Applicants must be a designer/owner of a jewelry manufacturing business, produce in the United States, and have never exhibited at a JA Show. Selection is based on originality, craftsmanship, innovation, marketability, and cohesiveness. The names of all finalists are submitted to the JA selection committee for consideration as a candidate for the New Designer Gallery. Winner and finalists are honored at an awards ceremony during the show.

Deadline for submission is January 15, 2009. For more information and/or to receive an application, visit ajdc.org or send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Alan Revere
AJDC Talent Contest Chairman
760 Market Street, Suite 900
San Francisco, CA 94102

JCK