The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has announced the esteemed panel of judges for its 2026 Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards, with entries now being accepted. This year's selection features five prominent experts from various segments of the jewelry industry, alongside additional judges for specialized sponsored categories. Their collective task is to meticulously assess hundreds of submissions, focusing on criteria such as design innovation, aesthetic appeal, effective use of materials, the quality of both gemstones and cultured pearls, superior craftsmanship, consumer resonance, and the potential to generate favorable public attention for natural colored gemstones.

AGTA CEO John W. Ford, Sr. enthusiastically welcomed the new panel, highlighting their exceptional expertise and diverse backgrounds. The judging process, which involves a comprehensive, hands-on evaluation of each piece for quality and artistry, is scheduled to occur in Dallas in late October. The main judging panel includes John Bachman, a seasoned gemstone dealer known for his work in Sri Lankan gem production; John Bradshaw, a distinguished gemologist and lapidary artist with extensive international experience; Yehouda Saketkhou, the innovative founder of Yael Designs; Zoltan David, a master goldsmith and celebrated designer with numerous awards and museum exhibits; and Jerry Raine, a respected retailer and co-founder of Turgeon Raine Jewelers. These judges bring a wealth of knowledge across gem dealing, lapidary arts, manufacturing, design, and retail.

Furthermore, the awards feature judges for sponsored categories, including the Alfie Norville Women in Excellence Awards, with a panel comprising Reena Norville, Michelle Alfena Spector, and Ben Norville, all with deep roots in the gem and jewelry trade. Jenny Luker, President of Platinum Guild International USA, will judge for PGI, while Lauren Stuller and Charles Evans will oversee the Stuller Color of the Year Award. This diverse group of experts ensures a thorough and well-rounded evaluation of all entries. The final deadline for mail-in entries is October 9, 2026, with an early bird deadline of September 25, 2026. The AGTA Spectrum Awards Gala is set to take place at the Tucson Convention Center during the 2027 AGTA GemFair Tucson.

This initiative not only celebrates artistic excellence and technical skill in the jewelry world but also champions the continued growth and innovation within the natural colored gemstone and cultured pearl sectors. By bringing together such a distinguished group of judges, AGTA reinforces its commitment to recognizing and promoting the highest standards of creativity and quality, inspiring future generations of jewelers and enhancing the industry's vibrant future.