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Association recognizes Hawaiian designers
The Hawaii Jewelers Association honored eight different designers for their jewelry’s craftsmanship and marketability at banquet held earlier this month in the Aloha State.
Honolulu--Nine designers were recognized earlier this month in Hawaii for their artistry, craft skills and innovation in jewelry-making.
The Hawaii Jewelers Association celebrated its 66th annual banquet and design competition on May 2. There are three categories in the competition: jewelry under $3,500, jewelry over $3,500 and Hawaiian-themed jewelry.
Each entry was required to be an original piece designed by an HJA member using only precious metals and genuine gemstones. All entries were evaluated on overall design, marketability, practicality/wear-ability and craftsmanship.
This year’s winners are as follows.
Jewelry under $3,500
First place, Jason Dow
Second place and People’s choice, Carrie Nottage Smith
Third place, Denny Wong Designs
Jewelry over $3,500
First place, Maui Divers
Second place, Dona Wong
Third place, Tiara Pearl International
People’s choice, Moshe Hakemolo
Hawaiian-themed jewelry
First place, Denny Wong Designs
Second place, Dona Wong
Third place, Maui Divers
People’s choice, Donna Shimazu
Denny Wong also was named Designer of the Year, as his piece garnered highest number of points overall.
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