Rio Tinto initiate jewellery competition

Posted August 16, 2011 | By Aaron Weinman

Rio Tinto Diamonds has launched an international diamond jewellery design competition that will culminate at next year’s Academy Awards.

The competition is open to entrants from the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, China, India and Australia. Winners will be displayed in a dedicated suite at the 2012 Academy Awards in Hollywood.

“We are delighted to be announcing this competition at a time when the jewellery industry is hungry for product innovation and design,” Rebecca Foerster, manager of Rio Tinto Diamonds’ US office said.

The competition is designed to invite creations from four categories of diamond jewellery design. The categories underline and explain the diverse nature of Rio Tinto’s diamonds and its commitment to sustainable jewellery practices.

The contest has four categories; Champagne Diamonds, Canadian Diamonds, Sustainable Jewellery and Silvermist Diamonds – Rio Tinto’s own line of silver-grey diamonds launched in 2009.

Each category is segregated into two groups, ‘Rising Star’ for new designers and ‘Master Craftsman’ for experienced designers.

“The competition has a number of unique categories which will provide the opportunity for designers to showcase their craft,” Foerster said.

Participating designers will have the opportunity to convey their own distinctive story behind the designs.

The competition ends October 26, 2011 while the judging takes place on November 2 in New York. The judging panel includes jewellery designers, fashion experts and celebrity stylists. Eight winning designs will be selected.

For more information on how to enter visit the Rio Tinto Diamonds blog.

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