Share Your Love Story for a Chance to Win a $15,000 Natural Diamond Engagement Ring
Celebrating black love and black talent in the jewelry industry, the BIJC “Together by Design” contest will give one lucky couple a gift of a lifetime.
The Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) is making waves once again as they announce their second annual “Together by Design” contest, an initiative that celebrates Black love and showcases the talent of Black professionals in the gem, jewelry, and watches industry. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing Black individuals in this field, the BIJC invites anyone with a love story and a desire to propose to enter for a chance to win a custom-designed platinum and natural diamond engagement ring.
This year’s grand prize is nothing short of extraordinary. The lucky winner will receive an engagement ring featuring a stunning 1.44-carat natural fancy yellow diamond. The cushion-cut diamond is graded as VVS1 clarity and valued at a minimum of $15,000.
If you have a love story that deserves recognition, now is the time to share it. The love story portion of the contest will be open until June 9, 2023, with the winner being notified by June 30, 2023. A panel of experienced jewelry professionals will carefully review each eligible entry, evaluating the depth of emotion and connection conveyed through the stories.
Once the winner is chosen, a group of talented jewelry designers will engage in a captivating Design Competition. Their task will be to create a natural diamond engagement ring that physically embodies the couple’s unique love story. This exciting process ensures that the winning couple will receive a truly one-of-a-kind ring that represents their bond and journey together.
BIJC President, Annie Doresca, expresses the organization’s vision behind the contest, saying, “The Together By Design Contest demonstrates the incredible connection that a love story can have on an engagement ring. Through both phases of the love story contest and jewelry design competition, our intent is to increase representation in the bridal sector and promote emerging designers, all while celebrating love”.
The BIJC “Together by Design” contest would not be possible without generous sponsors. Kealeboga Pule, the owner of Nungu Diamonds in South Africa, has graciously donated the exquisite 1.44-carat natural fancy yellow diamond that will serve as the focal point of the winning ring. The materials necessary to create the engagement ring have been donated by Platinum Guild International USA, Anza Gems, and B&B Fine Gems, highlighting their commitment to supporting and uplifting Black talent.
In addition to the dazzling ring, the winning couple will also have the opportunity to capture their special moment with a proposal photoshoot. The contest’s design portion prize package is made possible by sponsors such as the Gemological Institute of America, GRS, Jewelers of America, and the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, who recognize the importance of fostering creativity and skill development within the industry.
The Black in Jewelry Coalition is a driving force for change, working tirelessly to advance Black professionals in the gem, jewelry, and watches industry. Through networking, education, representation, and an abundance of resources, the BIJC aims to promote growth and create opportunities for Black individuals in this field. Their commitment to unity and partnership with allies reflects their dedication to an industry that embraces diversity and inclusivity.
For more information and full rules, visit blackinjewelry.org/together-by-design.
