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IGI Expressions Jury Spotlight: Ashraf Motiwala

The IGI Expressionsjewelry design competition is free to all participants and accepting submissions through Friday, October 22.

Submitted 100% online, hand-sketched or CAD submissions will be evaluated by our esteemed panel of jurists. IGI extends sincere thanks to this celebrated group of all-star experts for their support and advocacy of new, creative talent through IGI Expressions

Ashraf Motiwala

Ashraf Motiwala is the fourth-generation spearhead of the Motiwala legacy. As Managing Director at A S Motiwala he enjoys a reputation for procuring diamonds of unparalleled quality with an exceptional eye for colored gemstones. Ashraf began as an apprentice to his grandfather, learning the nuances of the trade, followed by formal gemological education. This set the wheels in motion for the launch of the family’s flagship store in 2012. As the Head of Design, Ashraf oversaw the debut of diverse collections including Faith, a contemporary line of jewelry for modern women. He was named India’s Inspirational Leader 2020 by WCRCINT and has been featured in various prestigious publications, including GJEPC’s Solitaire International and the Natural Diamond Council among others.

Ashraf Motiwala
Photo credit: Asiaone.co.in

A S Motiwala initially began working with diamonds and various other precious stones, and today stands as one of the most renowned jewelry brands in India. Their highly skilled staff and precise methods of ensuring that each gem is nothing short of perfect, lends to their excellent reputation in both jewelry manufacturing and retailing. Being both the manufacturer and the retailer provides the key advantage of eliminating middlemen and offering products directly to their clientele.

Ashraf Motiwala
Photo credit: A S Motiwala

Submit Your Design to IGI Expressions™ 

This year’s theme, “The Freedom to Dream” was selected to inspire interpretations of the word “dream” through an original piece or set of jewelry. The competition is open to aspiring students, established designers, seasoned professionals and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Participation is free.

IGI Expressions

Competition Segments

Entrants can submit in one of three categories, Millennial Light Weight Jewelry, Cocktail Wear Jewelry or Bridal Wear Jewelry. Those categories are divided into submit hand-drawn sketch submissions versus Computer Assisted Design (CAD) file submissions. The judges will advance a number of preliminary entries to a final round, after which six champions will be determined; the winning hand-drawn sketch and the winning CAD submission in each category.

Supporting Creative Talent

IGI CEO Roland Lorie commented on the importance of supporting jewelry industry artists and bringing the winning visions to life:

IGI has been certifying diamonds and colored stones for over 45 years. We also certify finished jewelry and recognize the vital role human creativity plays in using gemstones to move and inspire others. This competition provides an open channel for all jewelry enthusiasts, and the opportunity for winners to have their designs brought to life, as IGI continues to encourage and support creative talent.

The Institute is accepting IGI Expressions submissions until Oct. 22, 2021.

IGI Expressions description

Awards and Rewards

All participants will receive an official IGI Expressions™ Certificate. Finalists will receive Finalist Certificates and exposure on social channels. The six winners will see their designs fabricated by a competition partner, receive Champion Certificates and Champion Awards, a cash honorarium, exposure on social channels and recognition via press coverage, the Premium IGI D-Show and IGI Origin International Magazine. The winners will be announced on Oct. 28, 2021.

Learn more at IGI Expressions.

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