Save E-mail

Send this URL to a friend:

* - Denotes a required field.
Your Name*
Your Email Address*
Friend's Name*
Friend's Email Address*
Subject*
Message*

Print

Chicago--The SMART Jewelry Show is calling for applicants to compete in its live “Bench Pressure Challenge” competition, to be held April 21-23 at Navy Pier here.

Sponsored by Stuller and Gemvision, the head-to-head competition requires eight bench jewelers to demonstrate their skills in a series of timed events. The challenge, hosted by third-generation jeweler and INSTORE contributor Joel McFadden, is divided into two categories: “All-Around” and “CAD.”

The INSTORE Bench Pressure Challenge: All-Around division will see David White defending his title against three bench professionals. Over the weekend, the competitors will face off four times as they work with diamonds, palladium and platinum, demonstrating their wax and engraving know-how.

For the INSTORE Bench Pressure Challenge: CAD division, champ Matt Feliksa and three challengers will be given two hours to complete a design. The competitors will work to the same specifications, using their own personal style and vision to set their design apart.

The Bench Pressure Challenge seeks to elevate the professional status of bench jewelers by showing an audience the expertise required to turn basic ideas into finished works of art. Contestants will be selected based on their education, experience and past work.

Bench jewelers interested in participating can apply and find more information about the competition here. The application deadline is Feb. 27.

Now in its fourth year, the SMART Jewelry Show Chicago will take place April 21-23 at the Navy Pier. Presented by INSTORE and INDESIGN, the event provides independent jewelers with interactive education and buying opportunities.