SHOWCASING INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE
As the voice of the Canadian jewellery industry since 1879, Canadian Jeweller Magazine is the trusted news source for jewellers across the nation. This makes our Awards of Excellence an extremely prestigious forum through which designers can solidify their positions as forerunners in the trade.
MEET THIS YEAR’S WINNERS
Best Canadian Diamond Design
Andrei Jiliaev, Jiliaev Jewellery Collection
WINNER: Andre’s “The Family Tree” ring features a 9.04-carat diamond that was sliced into two unequal parts. The first is an oval brilliant-cut 4.15-carat gem, and the other is a pear-shape, brilliant-cut 0.79-carat stone.
An award-winning artist in both jewellery and architecture, Andrei is the resident designer for Jiliaev Jewellery in Vancouver. Over the years, he has amassed a long list of highly esteemed clientele, including celebrities, luminaries and the heads of various states and countries.
Shiv Chokhani, Karat Fine Jewellery
RUNNER UP: Set in a 18K white Canadian gold ring, the centre fits a 0.95ct square cut Forevermark diamond. The sides are accented with 0.95 ctw of round brilliant cut and baguette shade diamonds.
A Graduate Jeweler Gemologist (GJG) from Gemological Institute of America, and FGA from Gemmological Association of Great Britail and a Certificate Gemmologist from Gemmological Institute of India. He fuses his global influences and artistic inspiration for unique wearable pieces.
Best Pearl Design
Nick Koss, Volund Jewellery
WINNER: Crafted with platinum and 18-karat yellow and white gold, Nick’s “Lion” earrings feature glittering diamonds and Japanese Akoya pearls.
Born in Russia to parents of Swedish and Finnish descent, Nick Koss can trace his family roots to the jewellers of the Imperial Russian Court. Inspired by his family heritage, he founded Volund to create modern interpretations of historic art.
Iouri Jiliaev, Jilaev Jewellery Collection
RUNNER UP: The Moon Light Bliss ring boasts 18k yellow and 19k white gold. In the center is South Sea 16 mm round pearl, surrounded by 3.9ct, 300 blue sapphires. When positioned horizontally, 1.5ct diamonds are visible to complete the harmonious design.
Iouri is the co-founder of Jilaev Jewellery Collection, and a master goldsmith. He has long been developing his technique allowing him to continue earning awards for his craft. He has a eye quality, intricacies and vivid projection to stand out amongst the demand for one-of-a-kind jewellery.
Best Platinum Design
Linda Penwarden, Penwarden Fine Jewellery
WINNER: This cocktail ring features a 3.36-carat oval pink sapphire, 0.66 carats worth of round brilliant diamonds and a stunning platinum setting.
Linda Penwarden has over 20 years of experience in the Toronto jewellery industry. She developed her skills in fine art at the Ontario College of Art and Design and continued her studies at George Brown College as a goldsmith. She is known for her attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship.
Jeff Nechka, Premier Gems LTD
RUNNER UP: This 950 platinum engagement ring with hand engraved accents, features 2.00 faceted untreated purple sapphire, and 0.15ct fancy baguette cut diamonds.
After training at the Gemological institute of America, Jeff started Premier Gems. His vision developed from his passionate world wide pursuit of gemology and design. His mastery of the art of gem and diamond cutting propel his creative design skills to new levels.
Best Coloured Gemstone Design
Lucy Necrasova, Myerson’s Limited
WINNER: Lucy’s whimsical “Sunflower” ring features a bezel-set, 12.54-carat amethyst and 18-karat yellow and white gold.
A graduate of George Brown College in the field of Jewellery Arts and Gemmology, Lucy’s pieces include one-of-a-kind design and high-quality materials. She has more than a decade of experience with Myerson’s Limited, specializing in 3D CAD design, development and production of in-house jewellery.
Iouri Jiliaev, Jilaev Jewellery Collection
RUNNER UP: These Spring Pallet earrings feature a mix of gems set in 19k white gold. The gems include 0.50ct aquamarine, 2ct amethyst, 1.50ct green garnet, 1.50ct peridot, and 2ct diamonds.
Iouri is the co-founder of Jilaev Jewellery Collection, and a master goldsmith. He has long been developing his technique allowing him to continue earning awards for his craft. He has a eye quality, intricacies and vivid projection to stand out amongst the demand for one-of-a-kind jewellery.
