The American Jewelry Design Council is accepting applications for its annual Talent Contest. This high-profile competition has successfully launched the careers of several past winners. The winner is awarded a booth in the New Designer Gallery at the July Jewelers of America Show in New York City, and is the focus of extensive media attention. In addition, the winner receives professional support from members of the AJDC on making the step to larger markets.

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 Jan. 15, 2006. For more information and/or to receive an application, go to 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.

The AJDC is a group of over thirty nationally prominent designers who have banded together in order to increase the artistic appreciation of original fine jewelry. In coordination with the Jewelers of America, this contest has been a major annual success, each year exposing a single outstanding designer to national and international jewelry buyers.

JCK