The American Jewelry Design Council, promoter of original jewellery designs as art, announced that Leila Tai has won the 2009 Grand Prize of its annual New Talent Contest. The Council selects its winner based on the originality, craftsmanship, innovation, marketability and cohesiveness of design. The Council also recognized one Honorable Mention: Patricia Tschetter of Tschetter Studio, Inc.

As Grand Prize winner, Ms. Tai will receive an all-expense-paid booth to exhibit her collections in the New Designer Gallery at the July 2009 JA New York Summer Show, which is held at the Javitts Center. During the JA Show, the AJDC will honor Ms. Tai at an award ceremony and present her with a trophy made by AJDC member Michael Good. Ms. Tai will also receive professional support from members of the AJDC on making the step to larger markets.

"Leila Tai is not a new designer in our industry but she is certainly one of the most talented, and the Council is proud to recognize her extraordinary work this year," said Alan Revere, member of the American Jewelry Design Council.