Tiffany & Co. and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) have announced the creation of the Tiffany & Co. x CFDA Jewelry Designer Award, a new initiative focused exclusively on American jewelry designers.
This initiative aims to elevate jewelry design to the same status as womenswear and menswear within the fashion industry, with a focus on promoting inclusivity.
Mentorship and Fellowship Opportunities
Selected participants in the program will receive mentorship and immersive experiences within Tiffany & Co., gaining insight into the company’s tradition of innovation and craftsmanship. One designer will be awarded a yearlong fellowship with Tiffany & Co.’s design department, accompanied by a $50,000 prize.
Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President of Product, Communications & Industrial at Tiffany & Co., emphasized the company’s dedication to inclusivity and creativity:
“The inaugural Tiffany & Co. x CFDA Jewelry Designer Award uplifts Tiffany Atrium’s commitment to fostering lasting change across the jewelry and design industries. With a rich history of supporting inclusivity and creative excellence, Tiffany & Co. continues to be a champion for creative expression and social impact.”
Celebrating American Creative Excellence
Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA, highlighted the significance of this new award:
“This first-ever award with a sole focus on jewelry is a testament to CFDA’s longstanding commitment and mission to celebrate American creative excellence. Through the CFDA IMPACT program, we are thrilled to partner with Tiffany & Co., a cornerstone House with an iconic heritage, and Tiffany Atrium to identify and cultivate an inclusive next generation of American jewelry designers.”
Selection Committee and Application Process
The selection committee for the 2024 award comprises industry leaders and notable figures, including:
- Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President of Product, Communications & Industrial, Tiffany & Co.
- Bethann Hardison, CFDA Board Member & Advocate
- Frank Everett, Vice Chairman, Jewelry, Sotheby’s
- Gabrielle Union, Actress, Producer & Best Selling Author
- Jahleel Weaver, Creative Director & Stylist
- Jason Wu, Founder & Chief Creative Officer, CFDA Member
- Joan Smalls, Supermodel & Actress
- Nathalie Verdeille, Chief Artistic Officer, Jewelry and High Jewelry, Tiffany & Co.
- Rajni Jacques, Global Head of Fashion & Beauty, Snap Inc.
Applications for the 2024 program open on Monday, July 29, 2024, and close on Friday, August 16, 2024. Participants will be announced in the fall, with the award recipient revealed in early 2025. For more information and to apply, visit CFDA Program Terms.
