Canadian craftsmanship celebrated by CGA

The outstanding designs of four industry newcomers have been recognized by the Canadian Gemmological Association (CGA).

The group has announced three winners and one honourable mention for its third annual Emerging Artist Design Competition, which recognizes innovative and original creations from new designers across Canada.

“This is our third year celebrating this prestigious award and we are thrilled to see an increase in submissions,” says CGA president, Donna Hawrelko. “This really attests to the creative brilliance and passion of our Canadian students.”

François Charest, a 2019 graduate of Ècole de Joaillerie de Montréal, took top honours and a prize of $1000 for his necklace titled, ‘Granatus.’

George Brown College graduate Melina Panara received the second-place prize of $500 for her statement ring, ‘A Stitch In Time,’ while Sara Farhangi, also of George Brown College, placed third and was awarded $250 for her piece, ‘Paisley Ring.’

Finally, Ruby Rue of Vancouver Community College (VCC) received an honourable mention for her necklace, ‘Iniskim.’

“I want to congratulate our winners this year on a job well done,” Hawrelko says. “They really have done an outstanding job of breathing life into their jewellery designs.”