Jewelers of America (JA) announced the winners of its 13th annual JA Affiliate Design Competition. The contest featured 27 entries that won design competitions hosted by JA’s state and regional affiliate organizations in 2002.

All jewelry pieces in the competition were created by JA members or employees of JA member stores. Entries were displayed and judged at the JA New York show, held January 26-28 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York.

Entries were divided into three competition categories, according to cost of materials used. An esteemed panel of trade press editors, retailers, manufacturers, industry association leaders, and JA Certified Bench Jewelers served as judges for the three categories. Each piece was evaluated based upon craftsmanship, marketability, practicality/wearability, and overall design.

The Buyers’ Choice Award was determined by separate balloting of attendees at the JA New York show. This year, one of the designs won both its cost category and the Buyers’ Choice Award.

The winners of the contest are:

· Category I ($1,000 and under)
Joseph A. Bonasso III
JAB Jewelry, McMurray, Pa. Representing the Pennsylvania Jewelers Association
Ring in 18-kt. white gold with 1.11-ct. aquamarine and diamonds

· Category II ($1,001 to $3,000)
· Buyers’ Choice Award
Richard Kluesener
Gold in Art, Mount Dora, Fla.
Representing the Florida Jewelers Association
Cuff bracelet in platinum and 22-kt. gold with pavé-set diamonds depicting the New York City skyline

· Category III ($3,001 and over)
Michelle M. Harper
McCormack & Puryear Jewelers, Norfolk, Va.
Representing the Virginia Jewelers Association
Necklace and earring suite in 18-karat peach gold with orange drusy quartz leaf carvings and diamonds

All winners receive a trophy featuring JA’s “J” logo engraved with their name and store.

JCK