Stuller Celebrates Winners of Inaugural Color of the Year Jewelry Award

Stuller proudly announces the distinguished winners of its inaugural Color of the Year Award. This new accolade, launched in partnership with the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) during the 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards, challenges jewelry designers and gemstone experts to explore the profound significance a single hue can embody through extraordinary materials, superior artistry, and imaginative design.

Stuller's 'Signature Red' Ignites Creativity in Prestigious Jewelry Competition

The esteemed jewelry company Stuller, based in Lafayette, LA, recently lauded the victors of its groundbreaking Color of the Year Award. This competition, making its debut at the 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards, sought to translate Stuller's selected 2026 'Signature Red' into stunning jewelry pieces. Over 50 entries poured in, each presenting a unique interpretation of the color through finished jewelry or loose gemstones. The judging panel, which included Charles Evans, a gemstone buyer at Stuller, and Lauren Stuller, both certified gemologists, were captivated by the innovative spirit and technical prowess displayed by participants.

The top honors were bestowed upon several outstanding individuals. In the 'Cutting Edge' category, Alan Afshin Hackman of Intercolor USA, collaborating with David Hackman, secured a win for 'The Crimson Flame,' a magnificent 7.30 carat oval-shaped Ruby sourced from Madagascar. For the 'Spectrum' category, Jeffrey Bilgore of Jeffrey Bilgore, LLC was recognized for his 18K yellow gold and platinum 'Neuvelle Moi et Toi Forever' ring, which showcased a 6.21 carat unheated red Mahenge Spinel complemented by a 3.06 carat pear-shaped diamond and additional brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 1.32 carats. Cindy Zhang of Cindy Lu LLC earned the 'Spectrum Runner-Up' title for her 18K red rhodium-plated white gold 'Bleeding Heart, Not Broken' brooch, featuring an 8.63 carat heart-shaped rubellite Tourmaline, accented with rubies and diamonds totaling 2.80 carats.

Charles Evans remarked on the striking impact of red in jewelry, describing it as a color that is 'bold, emotional, and impossible to ignore.' He expressed his excitement at witnessing 'Signature Red' come to life through such a diverse array of gemstones and finished works, highlighting the remarkable creativity, skill, and passion invested in each submission. These sentiments underscore the profound journey from inspiration to tangible art, as seen in the winning creations.

This initiative from Stuller serves as a powerful reminder of the artistic potential within the jewelry industry. By focusing on a specific color, the competition not only highlights emerging talent but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the interplay of color, material, and design. The success of this inaugural award suggests a promising future for similar endeavors, fostering continued innovation and excellence in the world of fine jewelry.