AJDC holds an annual contest to select an outstanding new talent in fine jewelry. The winner is awarded a complimentary booth in the prestigious New Designer Gallery at the July JA Show in New York, one of the most important wholesale jewelry shows. The New Designer Gallery is the first place many buyers and editor want to see each year. The winner receives professional support from members of the AJDC as well as industry-wide media attention. In addition, the winner receives an original sculptural trophy created by AJDC member, Michael Good. This is a terrific opportunity for any emerging jewelry designer/manufacturer. Each year the contest propels a new designer toward the center of the international jewelry marketplace.
The competition is a major event on the American fine jewelry scene and many important industry figures; magazine editors, stores and galleries stop by to view the winner’s collection.
The contest is open to designers who own their own business and manufacturer of fine jewelry in the U.S. Applicants must currently sell on a wholesale basis to retailers and have never exhibited at a JA Show in New York. A committee of AJDC members reviews applications. Judging is based on design, originality, craftsmanship and marketability of the collection.
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~ Steven Kretchmer Scholarship Fund
WINNING THE AWARD…
…was an amazing opportunity to show my work to buyers and editors from around the country. Exhibiting my work at the JA Show in New York was eye-opening, educational, inspirational and
motivating."
Catherine Hylands (2003)
San Francisco, CA
...was validation of my development as a designer and a boon to my career as a manufacturer. Consulting with the members of AJDC has been invaluable."
Ellie Thompson (2001)
Minneapolis, MN
...brought me to the next level in design, production, marketing and satisfaction. I opened a number of accounts at the show and my work appeared in over a dozen magazine articles."
Sasha Samuels (2000)
Portland, OR
...opened new doors for my company, BAM Designs. The attention and exposure surpassed every thing I had ever dreamed of, which inspired me further."
Burdett A. Milkins (1998)
Monroe, MI
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