The Jose Hess Design Awards has opened submissions for its 2025 competition. Named after the late designer, the awards aim to support innovation in fine jewelry design and recognise emerging and established talent in the industry.
This year’s theme, “Radiance,” encourages designers to create jewelry that reflects beauty and timelessness, with the potential to become treasured heirlooms.
Competition Overview and Criteria
The awards honour the legacy of Jose Hess, a renowned designer instrumental in promoting design-driven jewelry during his five-decade career. Known for his contributions to the industry, Hess was a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the first American President of CIBJO (World Jewelry Confederation), and a founding member of the American Jewelry Design Council.
Participants must meet the following criteria:
- Submissions must be original and created specifically for the competition theme.
- Designs must fall under the fine jewelry category and incorporate 18k gold or platinum as well as natural diamonds or precious stones.
- Emphasis is placed on quality workmanship, technical proficiency, and consumer wearability.
Entries should be submitted as sketches or CAD renderings by February 28, 2025. Finalists will be notified in early April and must provide photos and videos of their finished pieces by May 1, 2025, for final judging.
Participation requires exhibitors to showcase their work at the JCK and/or Luxury 2025 Shows in Las Vegas, where the winners will be announced.
Awards and Recognition
The competition recognises talent in several categories, including:
- Grand Prize Winner
- Second Prize Winner
- Third Prize Winner
- Distinguished Finalists
Winners will be recognised at an awards reception during the JCK Show in Las Vegas, an event attended by industry leaders and media. The awards aim to provide recipients with valuable exposure within the jewelry industry.
Supporting the Next Generation of Designers
Magdalena Hess, the late designer’s wife, stated, “We seek to inspire the next generation of jewelry designers to push creative boundaries while honouring the timeless principles of exceptional craftsmanship. Our vision is for the winners of the Jose Hess Design Awards to have a lasting, positive impact on the fine jewelry industry. Their creativity and passion will help shape a brighter, more innovative future for jewelry design.”
Designers interested in participating can find submission details on the competition’s official website. Additional information and donation opportunities to support emerging jewelry designers are also available online.
