Maui Divers Jewelry was named Retail Business of the Year for the state of Hawaii by the Retail Merchant Association . The company also received five design awards from the Hawaii Jewelers Association’s Design Competition.

The Ho’okela (Retailer of the Year) Awards recognize Hawaii’s outstanding retailers and retail employees. To receive such acclaim in an industry so vital to Hawaii’s economy is a tremendous accomplishment. Among the finalists for the state of Hawaii were Maui Divers Jewelry, Goodwill Industries of Hawaii, and Macy’s Hawaii.

The Hawaii Jewelers Association named Maui Divers Jewelry Designer Michael Van Ly “Designer of The Year” in its annual Design Competition based on:

* First place in the Hawaiian Theme Category for his Kane Paddler pendant, a 14k gold, diamond accented piece inspired by renowned hula photographer Kim Taylor Reece

* Second place in the Under $3,500 Category for his Anthurium Bouquet, a 14k yellow and white gold, diamond accented brooch

* Third place in the Over $3,500 Category for his Golden Tornado, a 14k yellow and white gold pendant accented with diamonds and a golden south sea pearl

Ly has worked with Maui Divers’ Design Team for over three years and has been in the industry for over 23 years. His incredible talent has earned him “Designer of The Year” status for two years in a row.

In addition, Maui Divers Jewelry Designer John Nguyen received the distinctive “People’s Choice Award” for his Hawaiian Sea Life pendant in the Hawai’i Jewelers Association Design Competition’s Hawaiian Theme Category. The 14k white gold pendant is set with diamonds and a white south sea pearl capturing a Hawaiian underwater scene complete with sea life and a blue enameled ocean.

Nguyen is a new addition to the Maui Divers Design Team, however he has worked in the industry for over 19 years specializing in Hawaiian heirloom jewelry.

The Retail Merchant Association of Hawai’i is committed to the growth and development of the retail industry of Hawai’i. For more information, visit www.rmhawaii.org.

JCK