Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the winners of its 36th annual CASE Awards, spotlighting exceptional design talent in the fine jewelry industry nationwide.
CASE Awards—the acronym stands for creativity, artistry, style and excellence—are given in supplier and retailer categories, at four different price ranges. In addition, two designs earn the competition’s Best in Show, one presented in the retail category and the other to a supplier entry.
In the retailer category, this year’s Best in Show was awarded to Kennedy’s Jewelers of Blue Springs, Mo., for a 200+ ct. multicolor tourmaline necklace—the same jewel that was honored as a Best Statement Piece finalist in JCK‘s own Jewelers’ Choice Awards. The 14k yellow gold necklace features 6.63 cts. accent diamonds.
The 2026 CASE Award for Best in Show by suppliers went to Renisis’ 18k yellow gold ring with two rose-cut bullet diamonds, navy blue vitreous enamel, and pavé diamonds.
In a JA statement, senior vice president of corporate affairs Amanda Gizzi emphasized that all winning designs reflect both long-standing traditions and the evolving direction of fine jewelry.
CASE entries were judged on design excellence, originality, marketability, and quality of manufacturing, JA said. The judging panel included GemGuide’s Brecken Branstrator, jewelry writer Tanya Dukes, designer Deirdre Featherstone, and representatives from GIA and National Jeweler.
The JCK News Desk uses AI to help research and produce the first draft of articles. This story was then reviewed by staff writer Libby Rutkey.
Top: Brooch with 11.5 cts. t.w. watermelon tourmaline and diamonds in 18k yellow gold ($9,500) designed by Susan Eisen, the 2026 CASE Award winner in the retailer, $5,001 to $10,000, category
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