The George A. Schuetz Design Competition for men’s jewelry design named Gopal Roy of India as its 2006 winner for his rendering of a men’s ring.

Named after men’s jewelry designer and entrepreneur George A. Schuetz, the competition, sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America, recognizes the best original designs in men’s jewelry and accessories. All entries were judged based on design, wearability, manufacturability, and appeal by a panel of independent industry specialists.

Roy’s winning entry consists of two rings of white gold shank joined with yellow gold bars capped by bezel-set round diamonds. The center stone is an Asscher-cut ruby with two long diamond baguettes set on each side.

“Designing jewelry articulates the voice of my soul into something tangible to be understood by the outside world,” said Roy. “This was my first design competition, and it was an unbelievable surprise to place first.”

Roy received $500 and a circular-faceted trophy with his name etched in it.

“This year’s competition was one of our largest yet,” said Phillip Weeks, contest administrator and financial aid manager for GIA Education. “With 135 entries submitted from countries throughout the world, it is clear this contest has a strong international draw.”

Minjung Oh of Seoul, Korea, placed second with her ring and pendant design made of 18K white gold, onyx, melee diamonds, and black rubber. She is a recent graduate of GIA’s Jewelry Design program.

Another GIA Korea graduate, Young-Im Jeon, earned third place for her ring design of white and yellow gold, lapis lazuli, onyx, and melee diamonds.

JCK