Walk on Water: Golden Opportunity for Students Designing Jewelry

Why wear your heart on your sleeve when you can wear it around your neck? Village merchant Terry Whyte is holding his third annual jewelry design competition for students in the Grossmont Union High School District. Deadline is March 7.

This year’s contest theme is water. Budding artists are invited to “be creative” and “draw an original design.” Design elements that are discouraged include icons, symbols and animals.

The competition requires students design a pin, pendant or earring, and use precious metal and gemstones. It must be rendered as a 3-D design. The designs will be judged on whether the creation is reproducible, creative and wearable. Judges will also look at visual appeal and design inspiration.

Sponsor Whyte, a Village artist and goldsmith who owns Golden Artistry Jewelry Design, advises prospective designers to render the design in a 8-by-10-inch format and then reduce it to the wearable size to see how it holds up. “Some things may disappear. If so, simplify design,” Whyte said.

Each high school will receive at least one honorable mention. First-, second- and third-placers get gift certificates and merchandise. The grand prize winner sees their design as a finished piece of jewelry, and gets internship, cash and other prizes.

Entrants must also submit an entry form with their designs. Forms are on the competition website.