Every year, the AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards spotlight some of the most creative minds in the gem and jewelry world. Launched back in 1984, the competition has become a go-to showcase for both standout jewelry design and lapidary artistry. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind ring or a brilliantly cut stone, winning pieces get serious industry attention—and a spot in the AGTA GemFair Tucson showcase.
Tap here for contest rules, categories, and registration details!
Since its inception in 1984, the AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards has been the pinnacle of international acclaim for decorated designers and rising stars alike. Winning entries receive worldwide exposure through trade journals, consumer press, and a special showcase at the AGTA GemFair® Tucson in Arizona.
Tap here to check out the Roskin Gem News Reports on the winners of past Spectrum Awards! 2024
Tap here to check out the Roskin Gem News Reports on the winners of past Spectrum Awards! 2023
ENTRY DETAILS: Enter the Competition
Early Bird Deadline – September 26, 2025
Entry Fee: 1st entry $285, all subsequent entries $225 each.
Final Deadline – October 10, 2025
Entry Fee: 1st Entry $315, all subsequent entries $245 each.
ALL Categories
The competition has two divisions, Spectrum and Cutting Edge. Spectrum is geared toward wearable jewelry including rings, pendants, and earrings. Cutting Edge is suited for nonwearable items such as cut gemstones, carvings, and more.
The three highest-scoring entries in each category are honored with a first-, second-, or a third-place trophy, respectively. Up to two Honorable Mentions may be awarded in each category and honored with a certificate.
Spectrum Awards
The AGTA Spectrum Awards categories honor design excellence for all occasions. Entrants must utilize natural colored gemstones, natural Pearls, or cultured Pearls.
Bridal Wear
Whether gracing the bridesmaids or donning the bride herself, this category captures every look for walking down the aisle.
Business Wear
Stylish, practical jewelry perfectly suited for work and for play. Entries should possess simple elegance for a woman on the move.
Classical
This category represents timeless style. Classical entries strike the balance of traditional feel with a modern twist.
Engagement Rings
Whether an engagement ring or a wedding set, this category symbolizes commitment.
Evening Wear
Pieces in this category fall nothing short of spectacular. Entries can range from red carpet fabulous to stunningly chic—and all must have exceptional color.
Men’s Wear
Men’s fashion is heightened by the savvy style of the modern man who sports jewelry.
Cutting Edge Awards
The AGTA Cutting Edge Awards categories honor creativity and excellence among lapidary artists; hence this portion is open only to gemstone materials of natural origin.
All Other Cut Gemstones
Open to any extraordinary cut gemstone featuring traditional gemstone cutting techniques.
Carving
Open to any natural gem material carved in any style.
Classic Gemstones
Open to outstanding examples of Rubies, Emeralds, and Sapphires featuring traditional gemstone cutting techniques.
Innovative Faceting
Open to any gemstone featuring innovative faceting and lapidary techniques.
Pairs & Suites
Open to any two or more gemstones to be judged as a set.
North American Mined Gemstones
To celebrate the gemstones mined right here in North America, this category will feature gemstones that are mined in North America (United States and Canada).
Phenomenal Gemstones
Open to any phenomenal gemstone featuring an optical gemological effect, such as asterism, chatoyance, play of color, adularescence, aventurescence, or color change.
Objects of Art
Open to carvings, bowls, sculptures, intarsia, etc., of gem materials not intended to be worn. Objects may incorporate metal, wood, or other non-gem materials as base, frame, or decorative components.
