The American Gem Trade Association is accepting entries for the annual Spectrum Awards and Cutting Edge Awards competition through Sept. 22. All jewelry designers and lapidary artists throughout the United States and Canada are urged to participate. Artists and designers do not have to be a member of the AGTA to enter.

Any jewelry produced after October 2005, and not previously entered into an AGTA competition, may be entered. Entries must be finished pieces; no drawings will be accepted. Entry forms can be found online at www.agta.org.

The awards competition spotlights natural colored gemstones and cultured pearls. Winning pieces are displayed at major trade shows and potentially showcased on covers of national trade magazines. Winning an award in this competition is considered one of the industry’s most esteemed honors due to the rigorous judging process and caliber of entries.

A cocktail reception for the nation’s top fashion/accessory editors, stylists, producers, and costume designers will be hosted in conjunction with the awards competition. Every piece entered will be on display during the event. This creates an excellent opportunity for designers and lapidaries to gain exposure for their art.

For additional information regarding rules and conditions, dates, judging, and eligibility, please contact Joyann Schalk at 1-800-972-1162 or visit www.agta.org. AGTA Spectrum Awards is a trademark of the American Gem Trade Association.

JCK