The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has announced new deadlines for its prestigious Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards, celebrating their 40th anniversary this year. The early bird deadline is now September 20, with the final deadline set for October 9.
Key Dates and Entry Fees
The AGTA Spectrum Awards, known for recognizing excellence in colored gemstone and cultured pearl design, have adjusted their submission deadlines. Early bird entries are accepted until September 20 at a cost of $265 for the first entry and $205 for each subsequent entry. For entries submitted by the final deadline of October 9, the fee is $295 for the first entry and $225 for each additional entry.
Insurance and Shipping Requirements
For entries valued at $16,000 and above, there is an insurance fee of $2.50 per $1,000 of the replacement cost value. Entries exceeding a replacement cost of $250,000 must provide their own insurance coverage. AGTA covers return shipping via FedEx for entries with a replacement cost under $70,000. Entrants with pieces valued over this amount are responsible for return shipping fees. It is important to note that AGTA does not handle duties or fees for shipments from Canada, which must include a NAFTA form (CBP Form 434) to avoid refusal.
Awards Impact and Judging
John W. Ford, Sr., CEO of AGTA, emphasized the impact of the awards: “Lives are changed by winning Spectrum and Cutting Edge awards. I know mine was—my awards helped put my company name on the map in the gemstones and jewelry world. AGTA is excited to see this year’s entries and who will take the top prizes.”
This year’s winners, chosen by a panel of five industry experts, will gain international recognition and be featured in press and social media. The judges for 2024 include Jean Francois Bibet of Cartier, Peggy Grosz of Assael Inc., Sherry Bender of The Goldsmith Ltd., Susan Jacques of GIA, and Suza Landa of Suzy Landa Fine Jewelry. The judging will take place this fall in Dallas, Texas.
Categories and Awards
The Spectrum Awards feature categories for finished jewelry such as bridal, business/day wear, evening wear, and men’s wear, with a new category introduced for 2024. The Cutting Edge Awards include categories for loose gemstones, pairs and suites, innovative faceting, carvings, and North American mined gemstones.
Additional awards include the “Editor’s Choice Spectrum” and “Editor’s Choice Cutting Edge,” chosen at an exclusive event later this year, and the “Buyer’s Choice Spectrum in Tucson” and “Buyer’s Choice Cutting Edge in Tucson,” to be decided by buyers at GemFair Tucson 2025.
Industry Implications
The AGTA Spectrum Awards are a significant event in the jewelry industry, setting standards for innovation and excellence. For jewelers, participating in the awards not only offers a platform for showcasing their work but also provides an opportunity for industry recognition and increased market visibility. The awards’ rigorous judging process and esteemed panel lend credibility and prestige to the winners, influencing trends and driving demand within the industry.
For full details on eligibility requirements and judging criteria, visit the AGTA website. To submit an entry, access the submission form on the AGTA’s online portal.
