Toronto-based jewellery designer Shelly Purdy was named one of three winners at the illustrious 2018 Centurion Emerging Designer Competition. Now in its 10th year, the competition awards free exhibit space at the Centurion Scottsdale show, an invitation-only event that was held between Jan 28 and 30, 2018. The prize provides the winners once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand alongside internationally renowned jewellery companies and showcase their designs to top North American retailers. Purdy won for her Vintage Opulence collection, a throwback to Victorian design, but with a modern interpretation. This collection of stackable handmade engagement rings and bands pair the luxurious hue of 14-karat rose gold with the unique sparkle of domed rose-cut white diamonds and regal blue sapphires. This combination infuses the rings with a look all their own, removed from the traditional engagement ring and wedding band set.
“I’m so grateful to Centurion and Stuller for the privilege to show my Vintage Opulence collection among the superstars of the jewellery industry,” Purdy said. “This invaluable opportunity serves as a huge stepping stone for me to sell into the US wholesale market. I’m very excited to be part of this!”
The Centurion Emerging Designer Competition is open to independent jewellery designers who have never exhibited at a US fine jewellery trade show. A panel of experts from the jewellery industry judged the competition, narrowing the field to 17 finalists. This year’s first-round judges included Maren Rosen, vice-president of merchandising for Stuller; blogger Monica Stephenson of iDazzle; and jewellery author and historian Marion Fasel. The Centurion Retailer Advisory Board then reviewed the finalists and voted for the three winners, who each will receive free exhibit space at the show and a $1,000 merchandise credit from Stuller, which sponsors the competition.
“Every year, Centurion brings together the top prestige jewellers in the United States with an outstanding collection of high-end manufacturers,” says Centurion president Howard Hauben. “We’re proud to also introduce such a high level of innovative new talent that adds to our tradition of bringing the best retailers and designers together under one roof.”
Ashley Brown, Stuller’s executive director of marketing and public relations, says, “Stuller has been proud to sponsor the Centurion Emerging Designer Competition for the last six years. We know that innovation and creativity are essential to the future of the jewellery industry, and finding new talent is where it begins.”