Designed by Trisha Kennedy-Thompson of Kennedy’s Jewelers, this necklace featuring more than 200 carats of pink, green, and bi-color cabochon tourmalines ($56,150) received a “Best in Show” designation for the retail category at the 2026 CASE Awards.
New York—Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the winners of the 2026 CASE Awards.
The annual jewelry design contest recognized JA members who exhibit Creativity, Artistry, Style, and Excellence.
“The CASE Awards continue to showcase the incredible talent and creativity within the Jewelers of America community,” said Amanda Gizzi, senior vice president of corporate affairs for JA.
“Each year, our members demonstrate a remarkable balance of craftsmanship, innovation, and artistry, reflecting both the enduring traditions and evolving direction of the jewelry industry. We are proud to recognize these designers whose work not only inspires but helps shape the future of fine jewelry.”
There were more than 120 entries across eight categories.
These categories, divided by retail price points and by JA retail and supplier membership, recognized jewelry up to $5,000; $5,001 to $10,000; $10,001 to $20,000; and $20,001 to $75,000.
Two pieces—one in the retail category and one in the supplier category—were named “Best in Show.”
The winners in each category were selected by a panel of design experts who evaluated the entries on overall design, marketability, originality, and quality of manufacturing.
This year’s judges were as follows: Amanda Gizzi; Brecken Branstrator of GemGuide; writer Tanya Dukes; Deirdre Featherstone of Featherstone Design; Natalie Francisco of National Jeweler; Adrianne Sanogo, a GIA Graduate Gemologist; and Amina Sorel of Amina Sorel Fine Jewelry.
All winners will receive a customized CASE Award trophy and be given national and local media coverage.
See the winners below.
Retailer, Best in Show
Kennedy’s Jewelers, designed by Trisha Kennedy-Thompson in Blue Springs, Missouri. A 14-karat yellow gold custom necklace set with 201.64 carats of pink, green, and bi-color cabochon tourmalines, accented with 6.63 carats of diamonds ($56,150)
Retailer, Jewelry up to $5,000
Atelier Mythique, designed by Paola Mounla in New York City. The “La Dragonne” long three-finger ring and sculpture in sterling silver with 18-karat yellow gold plating features blue sapphire eyes ($780)
Retailer, Jewelry $5,001 to $10,000
Susan Eisen Fine Jewelry and Watches, designed by Susan Eisen, G.G., in El Paso, Texas. A watermelon tourmaline crystal brooch totaling 11.50 carats with diamonds and pink and green round tourmalines set in 18-karat yellow gold ($9,500)
Retailer, Jewelry $10,001 to $20,000
Nicole Mera, designed by Nikki Swift in San Antonio, Texas. A 14-karat yellow gold skull brooch with a 7.14-carat red beryl cabochon, a 0.21-carat heart-shaped ruby, and baguette and round brilliant diamonds totaling 0.07 carats ($11,995)
Retailer, Jewelry $20,001 to $75,000
Michael Ryan Personal Jeweler, designed by Michael Ryan Snuggs, Patrick Conway, and Mark Gronlund in Birmingham, Alabama. A 12.63-carat pink tourmaline pendant set in 14-karat rose gold with 2.70 carats of diamond rondelles and Akoya pearls styled on a pearl strand ($42,500)
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Supplier, Best in Show
Renisis, designed by Sardwell in New York City. A double bullet diamond ring with two rose-cut bullet diamonds totaling 4.09 carats, pavé diamonds, and navy blue vitreous enamel set in 18-karat yellow gold ($68,000)
Supplier, Jewelry up to $5,000
Loriann Jewelry, designed by Lori Friedman in Westport, Connecticut. A pair of "Etheria" cluster earrings from the “Fantasia” collection with diamond slices, Ethiopian opals, and red/orange sapphires set in 14-karat yellow gold ($4,995)
Supplier, Jewelry $5,001 to $10,000
Olga Shatrova, designed by Olga Shatrova in Irvine, California. "The Universe Lives Quietly Within You” ring in 18-karat white gold featuring baguette-cut sapphires totaling 2.58 carats, round sapphires totaling 0.74 carats, round tsavorites totaling 0.28 carats, and diamonds totaling 0.97 carats ($9,500)
Supplier, Jewelry $10,001 to $20,000
Jack Ferrero Inc., designed by Jack Ferrero and Hrachya Harutyunyan in Los Angeles. An 18-karat yellow gold “Pomegranate” ring with enamel artwork and brilliant-cut red rubies ($20,000)
Supplier, Jewelry $20,001 to $75,000
Hearts On Fire, designed by Yunjo Lee in Boston. The “Dream” floating necklace in 18-karat yellow gold with diamonds totaling 4.10 carats ($35,500)
