CPAA Opens 13th Annual Pearl Design Competition for Entries
This year’s contest again features a partnership with a retailer to showcase and sell winning designs.

The goal of the contest is to create compelling new pearl jewelry designs worthy of recognition, media exposure, and possible sales, CPAA said.
The organization is encouraging emerging designers and seasoned artists alike to enter.
CPAA is now accepting submissions for this year’s contest. Entries are due by Oct. 7.
There are once again two divisions for entries: international and domestic.
Those who live outside of the U.S. will submit renderings and sketches, while those living in the United States will compete in two stages with finished jewels.
The first stage is to submit professional photographs of completed pieces in one to three different angles.
Prejudging will be based on these photos, and finalists will then be chosen. U.S. finalists will be announced on Monday, Oct. 17.
The second stage for U.S. finalists is to mail in their pieces of finished jewelry for final live judging in New York City.
U.S. entrants must be prepared to sell their piece if it becomes a finalist or winner.
Winners will be announced on Thursday, Oct. 27.
Select pieces will immediately go on display and sale at the Aaron Faber gallery in New York City.
Meanwhile, the award categories have been slightly revised for 2022.
This year, the Spotlight Award will highlight one variety of pearl—baroque shapes of both saltwater and freshwater pearls—to drive attention to the beauty and uniqueness of the different types of pearls available.
A new student award will give those still studying at a university with a jewelry arts program the chance to enter with sketches.
There is also a new Retailer’s Choice award to replace the Popularity Award, with 4,000 jewelry stores across the country choosing their favorite pieces from all U.S. finalists, including students.
Additionally, pieces considered for the Luster award—reserved for a best-selling pearl design—now must retail for under $3,000.
The Orient award, given to a jewel priced attainably for new collectors, has been discontinued.
The cost of entries is $175 for the first entry, with each additional entry costing $150 apiece.
Students pay $75 for their first entry and $50 for each additional entry; they can email JHeebner@cpaa.org for a coupon code to enter at the discounted rate.
For more information about categories, entry instructions, or complete contest details, click here.
To purchase an entry, click here.
The Latest

Flower motifs are the jewelry trend blooming amongst the new collections that debuted this spring.

The retailer reported an 8 percent decline in annual sales as it struggles under the weight of billions of dollars of debt.

The “Devil” drop earrings, our Piece of the Week, are part of designer Edina Kiss’ new namesake jewelry line that she will show at Couture.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.


The “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.

As demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The “Mountings 2026-2027” catalog showcases Stuller’s largest and most diverse assortment to date with more than 400 new mounting styles.

Sally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.

McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.

Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

The luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.

Kalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.

“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.

The campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.

Plus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.

Presented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.

The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.

The jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.

JSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.

The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.

The “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.

Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.

In her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.

“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”

Organizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.























