1ST PLACE: TAP by Todd Pownell
Necklace with three stations, each one pin-set with a gray faceted diamond slice (7.11 TCW) surrounded by pin-set marquise diamonds (17.26 TCW) on 14K white gold backed with 18K yellow gold hanging on a platinum cable chain
$49,600
WSlabs of ice — frozen, enormous and creeping ever so slowly forward. The unnerving majesty of glaciers inspires this large statement necklace crafted by the husband-and-wife team of Todd Pownell and Debra Rosen. “We love the idea of compressing the vast frozen crystalline energy of the glacier’s terrain into jewelry,” says Rosen.
In order to recreate the glacier’s appearance, the TAP by Todd Pownell team set the marquise diamonds in varied positions to overlap the larger slab centers and each other. “With this piece, we wanted to frame each larger diamond slab with a multitude of various sized and colored marquise diamonds in an acutely erratic way to create a jagged-edged crystalline look with the three frames,” says Rosen. “The diamonds are drilled and set using only platinum pins in our signature style, which secures the diamonds fully exposed on a white gold sheet with the effect of being spilled across the neck.”
The necklace has an undeniable impact without being flashy or colorful. “The work reflects an energy that is ascending, descending and powerfully beautiful,” says Rosen. “We felt the overall impact of the diamond-on-diamond effect combined with the uniqueness of the setting made this our prime choice for the diamond category.”
WHAT THE JUDGES SAY
Ellen Hertz: There is something about the warmth of the gradation of color from white to yellow to deep brown that really takes my breath away when I look at this necklace. The color palette also softens what otherwise might be viewed as “just another” big diamond necklace. The pins on top of the diamonds add another layer of interest, and make it more contemporary and interesting.
Regina Sigman,: An absolute diamond beauty. Slices and pin-set marquise diamonds make this stunning necklace an absolute one-of-a-kind experience.
Julie Horowitz Jackson: What a spectacular setting with a modern twist on a vintage inspired design. There is incredible light to this piece, specifically in the center stones, allowing their true beauty to sparkle through.
2ND PLACE: Buddha Mama
20K mesh hand bracelet set with diamond and enamel round Mandala component
$70,000
WHAT THE JUDGES SAY
Julie Horowitz Jackson: There is incredible detail to this piece. I imagine it must feel fabulous as it moves against your skin.
Jennifer Gandia: This handlet is a stunning piece of jewelry armor fit for a modern day goddess!
Regina Sigman: Love the golden meshwork. Beautiful!
3RD PLACE: Sara Weinstock
18K rose gold Reverie Open Ring with diamonds: 3 round, 3 pear and 1 marquise clusters (1.64 TCW)
$5,180
WHAT THE JUDGES SAY
Regina Sigman: Rose gold is always a welcomed addition to my jewelry stash. This statement ring is very special.
Julie Horowitz Jackson: Really nice rhythm in conceptual geometry.
RETAILERS’ CHOICE: Shy Creation
Star hooped earrings from the Kate collection with diamonds (1.13 TCW) mounted in 14K rose gold
$2,680
HONORABLE MENTION: TODD REED
18K yellow gold fused to patina sterling silver set with fancy cut diamonds (approx. 8.60 TCW) and white brilliants (approx. 0.39 TCW)
$43,750
HONORABLE MENTION: SARA WEINSTOCK
Two-tone 18K rose and white gold Reverie Couture ring with white diamonds (4.44 TCW)
$32,920
