Noam Hakak of Noam Carver Fine Jewelry in Montreal won first place in the ‘Palladium Distinction’ category for a palladium, gold, and bronze ring with a lodolite quartz and brilliant-cut diamonds. Hakak also took second place in the same category for a palladium ring with a lodolite quartz and brilliant-cut diamonds. The 28-year-old designer says architecture served as his muse.
“For my winning piece, I was inspired by the ornate armoury work from the medieval era and architectural elements that I come into contact with on a daily basis, specifically weathered copper that accents the contours of old buildings,” Hakak explains. “For a long time, I have sought to incorporate this rich green patina look into a piece of jewellery.”
Ezra Satok-Wolman of E. Satok-Wolman came in second in the ‘Mokumé-gane Distinction’ category for his forged Mokumé ‘Orbit’ ring in 950 palladium and 22-karat gold with a Paraiba tourmaline and natural red diamond.
“I wanted to make a ring that gracefully flowed around the finger, while making a bold statement with the Paraiba tourmaline,” says Satok-Wolman, who also placed second in the same category last year. “I am constantly drawing inspiration, primarily from nature and music, and completely immerse myself in both while working.”
While the general public is less familiar with palladium, Hakak says the precious metal may now become more of a household term in light of current economic conditions.
“The masses are used to the notion of gold for jewellery and then there is platinum, which has made a major name for itself in the last decade as a prestigious alternative,” Hakak explains. “As a designer who does not really cater to the masses, I see value and even somewhat of a competitive edge to using palladium, which I promote as a new intriguing luxury metal. I guess we will have to see what the fallout will be from the economic situation and the effect it will have on gold and platinum prices for the future.”
The competition recognizes the innovation of designers whose work is influencing design trends in the jewellery industry. Winners were chosen in professional and student categories, with several professional entries honoured in special distinction categories.
Winners of the annual contest were announced last month at the MJSA Expo New York, where the pieces also went on display.
Along with other industry experts, designers, and educators, Jewellery Business managing editor Jacquie De Almeida served as one of the judges.
