JA, David Yurman Name GEM Awards Grant Finalists

Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the five finalists of the first David Yurman GEM Awards Grant, a program created to support emerging jewelry designers. 

The winner will receive a one-time grant of $50,000, JA said Tuesday. The prize also includes mentorship meetings with David Yurman executives, along with consulting sessions with other industry leaders. The winner will be revealed during the 24th Annual GEM Awards on March 13.

“We believe so deeply in mentorship and in giving emerging designers real tools and capital to help their growth and development,” said company cofounder and designer Sybil Yurman. “The David Yurman GEM Awards Grant is our commitment to the next generation of extraordinary talent. It serves as a clear expression of our long-term vision and belief in nurturing what’s next.”

The five finalists are:

Hiba Husayni of Zahn-Z

Jules Kim of Bijules Jewelry

Johnny Nelson of Johnny Nelson Jewelry

Dorian Webb of Dorian Webb

Lorraine West of Lorraine West Jewelry

The David Yurman Gem Award Grant Committee consists of David Yurman, Sybil Yurman, Marion Fasel, Sam Broekema, Annie Doresca, Jennifer Gandia, Amanda Gizzi, Lauren Harwell Godfrey and Jill Newman.

Image: The five finalists. (Jules Kim/Lorraine West/Dorian Webb/Hiba Husayni/Johnny Nelson).