The IGI Expressions™ international 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.
Donna Hourani
Donna Hourani’s exquisite jewelry has a focus on minimal, feminine designs that easily transition from day to night. Her journey to jewelry design included earning a BA in Interior Architecture and experience in both art and dance, as well as formal training in gemology. Donna believes that the little things in life, the most simple pleasure, have the biggest impact on the soul. As such, she uses natural gemstones, which are both ethically sourced and curated by her, personally. Most famous for her popular, mismatched earrings, Donna’s inspiration comes from several influential and distinctly different sources –
In her own words:
It was never just one source of inspiration, but a handful of magical moments and precious people that nourished that passion within.
When I close my eyes, I think of my mother, a bohemian artist feeding me a whirlwind of creativity. When I think of business, I see my father, teaching me the true value of entrepreneurship.
The rest flows in waves, such as my grandmother’s ever-curious drawer of trinkets and fairy dust. – Donna Hourani
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.
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.
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.