IGI stands for International Gemological Institute. It is a renowned authority in diamond, gemstone, and jewelry grading. They held an annual competition by the name of IGI Expressions – Jewelry Excellence Awards. This online international jewelry design competition is free and open for all creative artists. 

Let’s understand more about this creative challenge.

What is IGI Expressions?

In a nutshell, it is a platform for emerging and professional jewelry designers all across the globe.

Jewllery design is an arena where artistry meets innovation. Every talented designer has his/her vision to make it alive. IGI Expressions gives them a chance for worldwide fame and monetary benefit. It is achieved by their immensely popular annual contest of jewllery designing. 

IGI Expressions had supported the global jewelry industry by this competition. By this time, it is the fourth year. They provided a platform for emerging designers and the next generation of creative minds to shape the future of the industry.

Benefits of participating in International Jewelry Design Competition

This prestigious contest gives a multitude of benefits for aspiring and established jewelry designers. Some of the major are highlighted below. 

• It attracts attention from industry experts, potential clients, and media outlets. By participating, you get an opportunity to gain international recognition and exposure for your creative work.
• You can do networking with new people of the said domain. It helps to create and nurture professional relationships.
• You can exchange ideas and solve your queries with like-minded individuals.
• IGI engage industry experts and judges. It gives you a deeper knowledge of current trends and market demands.
• You get exposure to the industry standard and best practices in jewelry design.
• Winning or highlighting in IGI Expressions can lead to new job offers / collaborations with renowned brands. 
• On a financial note, a winner gets 500$. You open your chances for the same by participating in this jewllery design competition.

The 2024-25 theme: A Journey to the Enchanted Forest

IGI Expressions has launched the contest with theme titled “A Journey to the Enchanted Forest.” This theme encourages creativity and imagination. Designers are invited to explore the world of fantasy. 

The goal is create jewelry inspired by mythical creatures, magical landscapes, and ancient folklore. Your final output should be able to capture wonder and enchantment of the said theme.

There are three categories:

1. Statement piece – Design a ring, necklace, earrings, or a vintage jewelry set that makes a striking impression. 

2. Convertible jewelry – Craft versatile designs that transform into other pieces, like a necklace turning into earrings or a ring becoming a bracelet.

3. Accessories (beyond traditional jewelry) – Create unique designs such as headbands, hairpins, brooches, armlets, hand chains, bracelets, rings, and watches. Each piece should offer a sophisticated take on traditional styles.

Tips for creating a winning jewelry design

To increase your chances of success in IGI Expressions competitions, consider the following tips:

• Create a design that stands out from the crowd. Think outside the box and develop a unique concept.
• Pay attention to the technical aspects of your design, such as the feasibility of fabrication and the choice of materials.
• Do submit a well crafted narrative (up to 250 words) to showcase vision of your jewllery design.
• If possible, try to aligns with the growing trend of eco-conscious jewelry.
• Use high-quality images and clear descriptions to showcase your work.

How to participate in the International Jewelry Design Competition?

Please visit the official website of IGI Expressions to get all the details. From here, you will get all latest information, rules, and guidelines.

Once you go through it all, please click the button titled ‘SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY’  to sign up and upload your jewelry design. 

Make sure to follow all the technical guidelines mentioned in the ‘Submission Specifications’ module. Failing so might lead to rejected entry. 

Start date: 30^th November 2024

End date: 30^th January 2025

Prizes include 500$ cheque, champion trophy and certificate, media coverage and many more.