The Canadian Gemmological Association (CGA) announced today the 2025 seventh Canadian Emerging Artist Design Competition winners. Jewellery students and new graduates across Canada were invited to submit their creations to win cash prizes and exposure to top Canadian jewellery businesses.
“This marks the seventh (7) year of celebrating this prestigious award, and the calibre of submissions continues to impress. From bold concepts and the integration of new technologies to the fresh perspectives of emerging designers, each entry reflected the creativity and passion of Canada’s design community.
“I am thrilled to congratulate our winners this year, whose remarkable talent and vision truly set them apart,” said an impressed Donna Hawrelko, CGA President. “Each winning design demonstrates a fresh perspective, an awareness of emerging trends, and a fearless approach to redefining jewellery artistry.”
This year’s winners include:
First Place – Farah Kathrada – for her ring entitled, “Glitch”.
baguette natural diamond (1.7mm x 7.25mm)
Photo by Paul Ambtman (Digital by Design)
Second Place – Xiaoduo (Jessica) Li – for her innovative necklace entitled “Boundless.”
Third Place – Michael Starino for his ring – “San Carlo”.
And Honourable Mention goes to Kai Shen – for his ingenious design “xxixx” – Glasses.
The Canada-wide competition is open to all students enrolled in a Canadian post-secondary jewellery design or metalsmithing program.
Full contest details can be found on the CGA website www.canadiangemmological.com
