The International Gemological Institute (IGI), renowned as the world’s largest gemological organization, proudly unveils the victors of the 2023-24 IGI Expressions™ Jewellery Design Competition. This year’s edition witnessed an unprecedented surge in participation, with a remarkable total of 1,515 submissions pouring in from over 1,100 artists and creatives spanning the globe. Among these entrants, 54 designs emerged as finalists, from which seven outstanding creations have been crowned as the 2023-24 IGI Expressions™ Champions.
Centered around the theme of “Abstract Design with Retro Motifs,” the competition beckoned creatives to submit their works in one of three distinct categories: Statement Piece, Convertible Jewellery, and Perfume Bottle or Jewellery Box. Moreover, the competition encompassed separate divisions for sketched and digital submissions.
The following artists and designs emerged victorious in each segment:
Statement Piece Category:
Vivienne Shek from China in the Sketch Segment (tie)
Azade Baloochi from the Netherlands in the Sketch Segment (tie)
Janki Vaghani from India in the CAD Segment
Riki Shi from China in the iPad Segment (tie)
Wang Haoxuan from China in the iPad Segment (tie)
Sadaf Sarvmand from Iran in the Sketch Segment
Zhou Jialing from China in the iPad Segment
Suva Han from China in the Sketch Segment
Yu Ying from China in the iPad Segment
A distinguished international jury, comprising Pradeep Jethani, Helen Mao, Tania Heikal, Punit Balana, Sonal Sawasukha, and Severine Ferrari, meticulously evaluated the submissions based on three key criteria: adherence to the theme, wearability/usability, and aesthetics. The Champions were determined by the cumulative scores awarded by all six judges, who expressed awe at the caliber of designs.
“We were blown away by the creativity and skill of the winners. It was a tough competition, but these designers truly stood out,” remarked jurist Helen Mao, International Jewellery Consultant & Author.
IGI CEO Tehmasp Printer expressed gratitude to all involved parties: “Congratulations to the winners. The esteemed jurors have diligently appraised the cream of the crop designs. On behalf of Team IGI, I extend heartfelt thanks to all participants who showcased their exceptional designs on the free IGI Expressions™ 2023-24 Jewellery Design Competition platform. We eagerly anticipate an even greater turnout for next year’s competition.”
In addition to acclaim for their designs, the winners will receive an array of rewards, including an IGI Expressions Participation Certificate, an IGI Expressions Champion Trophy, a Champion Certificate, 3D prints of their design, exposure on IGI’s GemBlog and social channels, and a $500 check (Sanctioned Regions excluded).
IGI extends hearty congratulations and appreciation to all participants for their outstanding contributions.