Color and shine, hearts and sunbeams, explosions of light and drama. The winners of our 2021 INSTORE Design Awards represent a kaleidoscope of innovation and creativity, yet most share one obvious trait: their optimism.

With the pandemic on the decline in America, the excitement of a nation seems to have been distilled into inventions of precious metals and gemstones. And with a record 211 entries into our competition this year, jewelry designers were obviously eager to show what they’ve been working on since we all went into quarantine 18 months ago. Perhaps this year more than any other, we’re excited to honor their hard work and imagination.

To determine the winners, we recruited a panel of judges composed of six retailers and three jewelry writers, all experts in the world of jewelry design. They each voted on their favorite entries in a “blind voting” process. We also opened voting to all North American jewelry retailers online at instoremag.com, where thousands of votes were cast to decide the “Retailer’s Choice” winner in each category.

Our Grand Prize winner this year was Lori Friedman of LoriAnn Jewelry for her diamond slice earrings, which won over both our judges and retail voters. The earrings juxtapose diamonds in organic shapes with baguettes in a starburst shape that’s fun, airy and light. Friedman also won third place in the Best Earrings Under $5,000 category for her colorful Sparkler earrings.

Finally, we recognize one emerging designer who embodies the innovative spirit that was always celebrated by our former colleague Cindy Edelstein, who passed away in 2016. This year’s winner is Tariq Riaz, who took first place and Retailer’s Choice in Diamond Jewelry Over $5,000 and second place and Retailer’s Choice in Pearl Jewelry Over $5,000.

So relax, turn the page and be amazed by the finest jewelry designs of 2021!