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IGI Expressions Jury Spotlight: Chris Ploof

The IGI Expressionsinternational jewelry design competition is accepting submissions through November 30. Free to all participants, IGI is pleased to provide this platform where feelings can be conveyed in works of art.

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

Chris Ploof

Operating from a studio powered with solar panels, Chris Ploof specializes in unique, hand-forged pieces made with distinctive metals like Damascus steel and meteorite, paired with the ancient art of Mokume Gane. Each of the wedding bands he creates boasts its own unique pattern. His pendants, bracelets, earrings and other accessories represent a further array of distinctive, sustainable choices for modern jewelry lovers.

All of Chris’ original designs are made from recycled metals, handmade in New England, USA. Whether forged from an actual meteorite, or combinations of Damascus steel, gold, palladium and platinum fused together, the metals and materials Chris employs result in finished pieces which are durable enough to last a lifetime.

From Chris Ploof’s Website

For the connoisseurs, tastemakers, geek chic nerds, individuals who value more than status quo. For those who love the alchemists, artisanal geniuses, master goldsmiths designing and crafting legendary treasures for people like you who demand the extraordinary. We use our heads. We listen to our hearts. We make with our hands.

Submit Your Design to IGI Expressions™ 

This year’s theme, “Renewal,” was selected to reflect progress and growth in the cyclical rhythm of life and nature, and mirrors our need to foster circular rejuvenation, stewardship, and inclusivity as a species. Renewal is a synonym for Regeneration & Rejuvenation. Many times, obliteration is needed for renewal; it is the contrast of darkness which makes light so eternally beautiful.

IGI Expressions 2022

Competition Categories and Segments

There are three design categories, Lightweight Jewelry, Statement Piece or Accessory. Each category features separate segments to accommodate different submission preferences; by hand-drawn Sketch, Computer Assisted Design (CAD) file or iPad file. Approximately 40-50 designs will become competition finalists, from which nine champions will be selected, one in each submission segment, for each of the three categories.

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 grading diamonds and gemstones for over 45 years. We also certify finished jewelry and recognize the vital role creativity plays in using gemstones to move and inspire others. We are pleased to offer the IGI Expressions™ Awards again, inviting jewelry enthusiasts around the world to participate and be recognized as IGI continues to encourage and support creative talent.

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

IGI Expressions Information

Awards and Rewards

All competition participants will receive an official IGI Expressions™ Certificate. Finalists will receive Finalist Certificates, coverage on the IGI GemBlog and exposure on IGI’s social channels. The nine winners will see their designs fabricated by a contest partner, receive a $500 check (sanctioned regions excluded) an IGI Expressions™ Trophy, Certificate, and 3D prints of the design, as well as recognition via press coverage, IGI GemBlog and social channels. The winners will be announced on December 13, 2022.

Submit your design between October 31 and November 30

Learn more and enter your submission at IGI Expressions.

IGI Expressions logo

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