Eight entries selected by the Japan Jewellery Association 2013 Design Awards

Eight entries out of 126 were selected by the Japan Jewellery Association 2013 Design Awards, reports say. The design awards recognized various expertise under the different categories - the "Professional" category award was in recognition of design, technique and quality; while the "Theme" category, based upon the "Bonds of Love" campaign and the "Newcomer" category for jewelry that was created by students and young designers and challenged traditional concepts.

From the initial round of entries, 38 were selected with a total of 59 pieces of jewelry, to be displayed in the exhibition hall during the Japan Jewellery Fair. The winning pieces will showcase at the September Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair and later be placed at the Lalique Museum in Hakone, Japan, in October.

The organisers of the platform have noted an increased enthusiasm amongst the participants as the number of entries has risen. The grand prize was handed to Kaji International Co. Ltd. for a creation of a platinum ring and ring set under the theme of ''Story From The Universe'' that featured diamonds and meteorite. The Tokyo Kiho Corporation was awarded the Minister of Health, Labour, and Welfare Prize for a silver and diamond necklace named ''Sakura -- for New Born Babies.'' Tokyo Kiho was also awarded the Chairman of the Japan Jewellery Association Prize for a ring and pendant made in gold and diamonds and named ''Bonds of Love''. The Governor of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Prize was awarded to Juno Corporation for ''Air'' - bangle in gold and diamonds. Masumi Takei was awarded the best new designer prize for the ''Aurora -- Swinging Heart'' necklace, bangle and ring set in silver. A Chairman of the Japan Pearl Promotion Society Prize was awarded to the Kuwayama Corporation for ''Karin''- a neckpiece in platinum, gold, diamond and Akoya pearl. Shinpei Yamamoto was awarded the Chairman of the Japan Jewellery Designers Association Prize for ''Put Hands on Top of Each Other'' - a ring, featuring opal, sapphire and cloisonné. Atelier Hiroumi was awarded the Platinum Guild International Prize for a platinum, aquamarine and diamond necklace.