The Women’s Jewelry Association’s annual DIVA Design Competition is now accepting entries from designers of all levels of experience.This year is the 16th edition of the contest, which has two divisions: GEM DIVA, organized in conjunction with the American Gem Trade Association Spectrum Awards, and DazzleDIVA@30, for two-dimensional entries—renderings of unmade designs or photographs of finished jewels.

In the GEM DIVA division, entries from women who enter the AGTA Spectrum Awards are automatically eligible for the GEM DIVA distinction in three categories: Business/Daywear, Evening Wear, and Bridal. This is the second year WJA has partnered with the AGTA Spectrum Awards, and has done so to heighten awareness of organizations and increase the exposure of designers.

Entries into the DazzleDIVA@30 division ensure the “widest possible entry pool,” according to WJA (because entries can be renderings or images of already completed jewels). Designs are then judged on uniqueness, execution, and how well they speak to the theme.

Winners in each of the six categories receive $250 and a trip to New York City to attend the WJA’s annual Member’s Gala in March 2014. 

The application deadline is Sept. 20. For more information contact Cindy Edelstein, WJA DIVA Competition Chair, at 914-738-8485 or cindy@jewelersresource.com. To download the application, visit the WJA website.

JCK