Centurion 2009 is now accepting submissions for its first Centurion Emerging Designer Awards. The deadline for entries is Sept. 1.

The Centurion Emerging Designer Awards give up-and-coming designers the opportunity to submit photographs of up to 10 pieces of their jewelry line to be judged by a jury of their peers. Winners will be given a shared exhibit space to introduce themselves at Centurion, the high-end jewelry buying show, Jan. 31– Feb. 4, 2009, in Tucson, Ariz.

“This is the perfect opportunity for new designers to get directly in front of their ideal audience – high-end retailers,” said Centurion president Howard Hauben. “Winners will exhibit their line for the duration of the Centurion Tucson show, as well as participate in the show events and experiences.”

Entries will be evaluated by a panel of established industry designers, who will be looking for a balance between creativity, originality, function, production quality, craftsmanship/skill, and the ability to sell in high-end stores. 

This competition is open to all designers, regardless of experience, formal training or background in jewelry design, as long as they have never exhibited as a solo artist, have the ability to exhibit at a trade fair, and have the ability to supply high-end retailers.

Full details and the entry form can be found here.

JCK