The Jewellery and Gemstone Association of Africa is proud to announce the launch of its second major competition.

 

JGAA extends an open call to Africans worldwide — and to all those of African heritage, including Afro-Brazilian, Afro-American, Afro-Caribbean, and other Afro-diasporic communities — to share their vision for a vibrant, inclusive, and future-forward African jewellery industry.

This is a moment to reimagine tradition, celebrate identity, and shape a collective legacy through artistry and innovation.

Presented in collaboration with exhibition hosts Africa Jewellery Week™ Limited, GemGenève, and Digital Jewelry Week, and supported by official media partners Jewellery Afrika (South Africa) and Jewellery Editor (UK), the competition focuses exclusively on fine jewellery design across three categories:

1.    Hand Rendered Design

2.    Computer Assisted Design (CAD)

3.    Celebrating the Art of Gouache

At the heart of Design Dynamic is a celebration of gouache artistry — a timeless medium revered by leading jewellery maisons and celebrated as an art form in its own right. This category invites not only jewellers but also – significantly - African visual artists — painters, illustrators — to explore jewellery design through the evocative power of gouache.

All entries will be assessed on their creative use of gemstones mined in Africa and any demonstrated knowledge of their properties. 

Prize

The Africa Birdlife Collection (ABC)

The official outcome of the inaugural Design Dynamic will be the Africa Birdlife Collection (ABC) — a capsule collection curated by JGAA, inspired by the flight, colour, and symbolism of African birds.

Two winning entries per category will be selected for inclusion in the ABC. These designs will debut at GemGenève 2026, with the finished pieces unveiled at a dedicated exhibition in 2027 — inviting global audiences to experience the future of African jewellery.

Prize Package: Materials, Mentorship & Business Support

Winners will receive:

1. Supply of materials for selected designs
2. Support sessions on the manufacturing process
3. Business awareness training led by the Sponsorship Team
4. Promotion of the ABC Collection and its winners
5. Spotlight on the ABC Collective (as individuals and as a group for one year from      exhibition date)
6. Winners will also collaborate with JGAA’s design and manufacturing partners to        oversee the translation of their designs into finished pieces.

Judging Panel

A distinguished panel of judges will assess all entries:

Hand Rendered Design
-Jannine Binneman - Jannine Binneman Jewellery (South Africa)
-Pippa Small – Pippa Small Jewellery (UK & USA)
-Catherine Marche – Catherine Marche Designs(UK)
-Retha Minnie – Dust Designs (South Africa)
-Olajumoke Oluwatunmibi – Jumoke Lagos (Nigeria)

Computer Assisted Design (CAD)
-Mbako Mbaraedi - MBK Designs (Botswana)
-Darren Sherwood – Mr Sherwood (UK)
-Tracy Jane Lotter – Lotti Jewellery (South Africa)
-Lungile Xhwantini – Lead Production – Platinum Incubator (South Africa)
-Stefania Indelicato – Ambersouk (UK)
-Lisa Slovis Mandel – Lisa Slovis Metalsmithing (USA)

Celebrating the Art of Gouache
-Helene Karpov & Jeanne Karpov – Karpov (France)
-Stasia Parker – Stasia Parker Consultant (UK)
-Nontando Molefe – Phatsima Jewellery Designs (South Africa)
-Francesca Grima – Creative Director – Grima (UK)
-Thato Radebe – Designer & Lecturer at Johannesburg University (South Africa)

Gemstone Appreciation
Adrianne Sanogo, GIA Graduate Gemmologist® (GG), GIA Graduate Pearl (GP) (USA)

Ethics Committee of External Consultants
-Sara Yood (Lead Counsel at Jeweler’s Vigilance Committee USA/ CIBJO Ethics Committee - Global)
-Felicia Linch (Legal & ESG Consultant, UK)
-Susan Hailes (Litigation Expert, UK)
-John Mulligan (Sustainability at the World Gold Council / CIBJO Sustainability Committee - Global)

Design Dynamic Coordinators
-Longo Mulaisho-Zinsner (JGAA)
-Anayawa Nyambe (JGAA)
-Jo Boateng (JGAA & Jo Boateng Jewellery)
-Ashley Zulu (Graduate Intern, JGAA)

Exhibition Advisory for JGAA & Africa Jewellery Week Space at GemGenève 2026
-Melanie C Grant

Competition Rules

Mandatory
By entering the competition, you confirm that:

1. Ethics Charter: You have read and agree to JGAA’s Ethics Charter below.

2. Original Ideas: The submitted designs are your work and do not copy and/or infringe the artwork, designs and/or manufactured design of other individuals or entities.

3. Intellectual Property Assurance: By submitting an entry, you guarantee that your design(s) is/are original and does/do not infringe upon the intellectual property rights of any third party.

4. Intellectual Property – Infringement Assurance for JGAA & Partners: If someone claims your design infringes on theirs, you will be held responsible for any claims arising from any infringement of another’s original design, in relation to the Design Dynamic Competition.

5. No Artificial Intelligence Usage: All designs submitted cannot be created or assisted, whether in part or whole, by Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.

6. Disqualification: Where any noncompliance and/or infringement is established, in relation to points no 1-5 above, of this section, the result will be immediate disqualification, at any stage of the discovery process.

 

Manufacturing
1. The winning entries will be manufactured by JGAA and its partners, from June 2026 onwards.

2. JGAA and its partners will involve the winning designers in the manufacture process, as part of the prize offering.

3. The winners will have scheduled iterations with the manufacturer and JGAA to ensure that the design vision is carried across to a final piece.

4. The requirements of this process will be shared with the winners in a “Manufacturing Handbook.”

5. The designs of all winners and entrants will not be replicated by JGAA and its partners except for the purposes of the Design Dynamic Competition.

6. The intellectual property rights in all entrant’s designs (where these do not infringe the designs of third parties) remain with the entrants (whether winning entrants or not).

7. The Africa Birdlife Collection (ABC), the culminating output of the Design Dynamic competition, is an original concept and curated collection of JGAA’s Africa Jewellery Week.™ It is protected and cannot be reproduced or replicated in any form.

 

General
1. The design pieces must include the use of gemstones found on the African Continent.

2. The theme must include inspiration of birdlife found in Africa.

3. Participants are not required to manufacture the designed work.

4. Winning participants are not required to manufacture the designed work and agree to the outsourcing of the manufacture, of their design, to a JGAA selected third party.

5. Winning entries will not bear the cost of manufacture of the piece.

6. Only one (1) entry is allowed for the competition. Where multiple entries are made, by one individual, none of the multiple entries will be assessed.

7. All designs must be in 2-D and must include a front, side, back and aerial view of the jewellery piece.

8. You can design any one item of the following items of jewellery:

a) A ring;

b) A bangle/ bracelet or cuff

c) A pendant with a necklace

d) Earrings

e) Cufflinks

f) A brooch

9. Your name should not be on the final design drawing, as judges will asses entries anonymously.

9. The design must not be made for the purposes of this competition.

10. All designs must be made to scale with accurate measurements provided.

 

CATEGORY 1:

Hand Rendered Design Requirements

Rendering Techniques to demonstrate:
a) Perspective & Proportion: Accurate 2D representation of 3D forms, often in isometric or orthographic views

b) Light & Shadow: Use of shading and highlights to convey volume and depth

c) Metal Rendering: Techniques to depict gold, platinum, silver, etc., using tonal gradients and reflections

d) Gemstone Illustration: Layered color application, faceting, and sparkle effects to simulate brilliance and transparency

e) Texture & Detail: Fine brushwork to show surface finishes (e.g., matte, polished, engraved)

 

Presentation Standards

a) Clean Layout: Centered or grid-aligned designs with ample white space

b) Annotations: Labels for materials, dimensions, and stone types

c) Consistency: Uniform style across a collection or series

d) Client/Brief Alignment: Designs should clearly respond to the theme.

 

CATEGORY 2:

Computer Assisted Design (CAD) Requirements

Technical Accuracy:
a) Precise Dimensions: All measurements must be exact and suitable for manufacturing.

b)Tolerance Awareness: Designs must account for casting shrinkage, stone setting allowances, and minimum metal thickness (e.g., prongs, bezels, shanks).

c) File Integrity: Clean geometry with no overlapping surfaces, non-manifold edges, or open meshes.

Manufacturability:
a) Casting Readiness: Design must be optimized for casting, including proper sprue placement and support structures if needed.

b) Stone Settings: Accurate placement and sizing of seats, grooves, and prongs for secure stone setting.

c) Assembly Logic: Logical segmentation for multi-part pieces (e.g., hinges, clasps, articulated elements).

Design Clarity
a) Visual Realism: High-quality renders or screenshots showing metal finishes, gemstone cuts, and overall aesthetics.

b) Annotation: Clear labeling of materials, dimensions, and functional components.

c) Consistency: Uniform style across a collection or series.

 

Innovation & Creativity
a) Originality: Unique concept or reinterpretation of traditional forms.

b) Functionality: Wearability, comfort, and user experience.

c) Aesthetic Impact: Balance of form, proportion, and visual appeal.

 

Software Standards
a) File Format: Commonly accepted formats (.STL, .OBJ, .3DM, etc.)

b) Software Used: Mention of CAD platform (e.g., RhinoGold, MatrixGold, ZBrush, Blender).

c) Layer Management: Organized layers for stones, metal, annotations, etc.

 

 

CATEGORY 3:

Gouache Requirements

Technical Precision
a)Proportions & Scale: Accurate representation of jewellery dimensions and gemstone cuts.

b)Perspective: Clear 2D or isometric views that convey volume and structure.

c)Symmetry & Alignment: Especially critical in rings, earrings, and multi-stone pieces.

Rendering Quality
a) Metal Depiction: Realistic rendering of gold, platinum, silver, etc., using tonal gradients and reflective highlights

b)Gemstone Illustration: Faceting, brilliance, and transparency achieved through layered gouache application

c)Light & Shadow: Effective use of contrast to simulate depth and texture

 

Artistic Expression
a) Color Harmony: Thoughtful palette choices that reflect material properties and design intent
b) Detailing: Fine brushwork for engravings, settings, and surface finishes
c) Creativity: Originality in concept, motif, and composition

Presentation & Clarity
a) Clean Layout: Balanced composition with sufficient white space
b) Annotations: Clear labels for materials, dimensions, and stone types
c) Craftsman Guidance: Design must serve as a functional blueprint for production

Emotional & Cultural Resonance
a) Narrative: Design tells a story or reflects the Design Dynamic theme (e.g., heritage, nature, symbolism)
b) Cultural Sensitivity: Respectful integration of traditional motifs or techniques
c) Elegance & Impact: Overall impression of refinement and artistic integrity

 

Pointers

a) Document your process: keep sketches, drafts and notes to show how your idea evolved (these are not required as part of the submission) winning entries will be required to talk the panel through these. 

Important notice

There is no entry fee required to participate in the Design Dynamic Competition.

Any requests for payment claiming to be from the Jewellery and Gemstone Association of Africa (JGAA) or its affiliates are fraudulent.

 

If you receive such a request, do not respond or make any payment. Kindly report the incident directly to JGAA so appropriate action can be taken.

 

Stay vigilant and help us maintain the integrity of the competition.

Above all - Good Luck!

Ethics Charter of the Jewellery & Gemstone Association of Africa (“JGAA”)

Adopted 2024 (revised 2025).

 

Background

The Jewellery and Gemstone Association of Africa (JGAA) is the first association for Africa with a focus on economic transformation through jewellery training and gemstone education. As the first membership association for Africa, with a distinct focus on the output of skills to improved livelihoods, we are committed to upholding the integrity of our industry.

 

Our mission is:

“Supporting sustainable economic development in the African jewellery and gemstone industry.”

 

Our vision, is to see:

“A dynamic African jewellery and gemstone industry, with equal access to training and opportunities, utilising the natural and human resources available, developing skills through collaboration, and acting with integrity.”

 

Core Founding Partners:

The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO)

We are proud to hold Observer Membership status of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), since 2022.

 

The African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET)

We work in close partnership with the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), a leading Africa development think-thank based in Accra, Ghana.

 

Our Patrons

Our patrons are Dr Gaetano Cavalieri, President of the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) and Dr K Y Amoako, Founder and President Alumnus of the African Center for EconomicTransformation.

 

Our charter

1.This Ethics Charter is a commitment by JGAA, its Core Founding Partners, our members and all we work with to uphold responsible business practices. Our approach integrates anin-depth assessment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

 

2. Our ethics goals

2.1. As membersand partners of the Jewellery & Gemstone Association of Africa (JGAA), we acknowledge our role in promoting ethical standards and sustainable practices within the jewellery and gemstone industry across the African continent.

2.2. Our commitment extends to fostering transparency, respect for human rights and non-violence, environmental stewardship, fostering equality for all, especially gender equality, and economic development in allfacets of our operations.

 

3. Ethical Sourcing

3.1.We commit to sourcing gemstones and minerals ethically and responsibly, ensuring that our practices align with international standards and best practices.

3.2.This includes upholding the principles of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme for diamonds and supporting the development and implementation of similar protocols for coloured gemstones and other minerals, including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High Risk Areas.

3.3.We will prioritise the welfare and rights of miners and workers throughout the supply chain, advocating for fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of child labour and forced labour.

3.4.We will promote transparency and traceability in the sourcing of raw materials, supporting initiatives that enable stakeholders to track the journey of gemstones from mine to market. This includes disclosing information about the origin, processing, and environmental impact of gemstones to our customers and stakeholders.

3.5.We will collaborate with local communities, local businesses, governments, and industry partners to foster sustainable development, economic empowerment, and social progress in mining regions, aiming to create lasting benefits for all stakeholders involved.

 

4. Ethical Supply Chain & Manufacture

4.1. We are an association committed to the development of a cohesive African jewellery and gemstone industry, through education and economic empowerment.

We commit to facilitating training initiatives with reliable third parties, who are aligned with this charter and demonstrate our commitments in their day-to-day practice. Together we ensure that our practicesalign with international standards and best practices.

4.2. We will prioritise the welfare and rights of buyers, sellers, makers and those involvedand engaged in the jewellery and gemstone manufacture supply chain. This includes but is not limited to, participants providing services and products throughout the supply chain, advocating for fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of child labour and forced labour.

4.3. We will promote transparency and traceability in the sourcing of raw materials, supporting initiatives that enable stakeholders to track the journey of gemstones and metals from mine to market. This includes disclosing information about the origin, processing, and environmental impact of materials and components to our customers and stakeholders.

4.4. We will collaborate with local communities, local businesses, governments, and industry partners to foster sustainable development, economic empowerment, and social progress in mining regions, aiming to create lasting benefits for all stakeholders involved.

 

5. Environmental Stewardship

5.1.We recognize the importance of environmental conservation and pledge to minimise the ecological footprint of our operations. This includes adopting sustainable mining practices, reducing waste, conserving energy and water resources, and rehabilitating land affected by mining activities.

5.2.We will support research and innovation in ethical technologies and practices within the jewellery and gemstone sector, aiming to mitigate environmental impacts and promote biodiversity conservation.

5.3.We will advocate for the use of certified sustainable materials and responsible manufacturing processes among our members and encourage the adoption of environmental management systems that comply with international standards.

5.4.We advocate for the safe use and disposal of chemicals, including any waste or by product from the manufacturing process. This commitment begins with the processing of raw minerals to the fabrication of end products.

5.5.The use of chemicals and products in the manufacture process includes but is not limited to, the use of cleaning and polishing solutions,acids, flux, electroplating solutions, dyes, patinas, adhesive, pickling solutions. We advocate for careful usage and careful disposal of these products to ensure those involved in their usage are aware of the risks involved totheir safety and wellbeing, that of the environment and those around them,including the end consumer.

 

6. Consumer Confidence

6.1.We are committed to providing consumers with accurate, reliable, and transparent information about the jewellery and gemstone products they purchase. This includes disclosing details about the characteristics, origin,and ethical considerations of gemstones, metals and final products to enable informed decision-making.

6.2.We will uphold high standards of product quality and craft ship,ensuring that our products meet or exceed industry norms and consumer expectations for durability, authenticity, and beauty.

6.3.We will educate consumers about the ethical, social, and environmental impacts of their purchasing decisions, promoting awareness of responsible consumption and the positive contributions of ethically sourced gemstones and metals to communities and ecosystems.

6.4.We will establish mechanisms for consumer feedback, complaints, and enquiries, ensuring responsiveness and accountability in addressing consumer concerns related to product quality, ethical sourcing, or environmental stewardship.

 

7. Integrity and Accountability

7.1.We will conduct all business activities with honesty, integrity, and fairness, adhering to legal requirements, ethical standards, and industry best practices. This includes refraining from engaging in corrupt practices,bribery, or any form of unethical behaviour that could undermine trust in our industry.

7.2.We will maintain accurate records of transactions and financial dealings, ensuring transparency and accountability in our business operations.

7.3.We will respect confidentiality regarding sensitive information about business partners, customers, and stakeholders.

7.4.We will establish governance structures and internal controls tomonitor compliance with this Ethics Charter and relevant regulations. This includes conducting regular ethical audits, implementing grievance mechanisms, and taking prompt corrective actions in response to identified violations or breaches.

7.5.We will respect the intellectual property rights of others, and not infringe upon those rights or create work intended to confuse consumers regarding the source, origin, or creation of our products. When made aware of a potential violation, we will withdraw the offending design from sale and from promotion on JGAA’s platforms, including any third-party platforms.

 

8. Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

8.1.We recognize the value of collaboration and partnerships inadvancing ethical standards and sustainability within the jewellery and gemstone industry. We will actively engage with industry associations,governmental agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to share knowledge, best practices, and resources.

8.2.We will invest in research, training, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the skills, competencies, and ethical awareness of our members and stakeholders. This includes promoting professional development opportunities and supporting educational programs that foster responsible business practices.

8.3.We will continuously review and update this Ethics Charter to reflect advancements in ethical standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices. This includes soliciting feedback from stakeholders, conducting periodic reviews, and revising our commitments and objectives as necessary to uphold our shared values and principles.

 

9. Conclusion

9.1.By adhering to this Ethics Charter, the JGAA reaffirms its dedication to promoting ethical conduct, sustainability, and responsible business practices within the jewellery and gemstone sector. Together, we strive to contribute positively to the communities we serve, preserve the natural environment, and uphold the integrity and reputation of African gemstones and jewellery on the global stage.

By signing this Ethics Charter, each individual undertakes to actively promote the fundamental ethical principles outlined above, thereby contributing to JGAA’s mission and vision.

Prepared in collaboration with

the Jeweler’s Vigilance Committee, our partner in ethics.

In submitting this application. I consent to the use of my submitted designs for the purposes of the Design Dynamic Competition, including the manufacture of my design, if selected as a winner.