The Jewellery and Gemstone Association of Africa (JGAA) has launched its second competition, “The Design Dynamic,” inviting Africans worldwide, including Afro-Canadians and Afro-Americans, to submit innovative designs that represent a vibrant and inclusive future for the African jewellery industry.

This competition offers a unique chance to merge tradition with modern artistry, encouraging participants to honour their cultural roots while building a shared legacy.

The event is organized in partnership with Africa Jewellery Week™ Limited, GemGenève, and Digital Jewelry Week, with support from media partners Jewellery Afrika (South Africa) and Jewellery Editor (UK).

The competition will feature fine jewellery design in three categories: Hand-rendered design, computer-assisted design (CAD), and the art of gouache.

A key feature of “The Design Dynamic” is its gouache category, valued by top jewellery houses and recognized as an art form. This category invites both jewellers and African visual artists to explore jewellery design using the expressive power of gouache.

Entries will be judged on their creative use of African gemstones and their properties, providing a platform for Canadian artists of African descent to showcase their talents. This competition aims to reshape the narrative around African jewellery, highlighting creativity and innovation.

The Design Dynamic will culminate in the Africa Birdlife Collection (ABC), inspired by African birds. Two winning entries per category will be showcased at GemGenève 2026, with the finished pieces on display in a 2027 exhibition.

Winners of the competition will receive a prize package that includes design materials, manufacturing support, and business training. They will benefit from the promotion of the ABC collection and a year-long spotlight on the ABC collective.

Additionally, winners will collaborate with JGAA’s partners to turn their designs into finished pieces, empowering the next generation of African jewellery designers and enhancing their visibility in the global market.

Entries close March 1, 2026. For more information, contact: Enquiries@jgaa.africa.