Smith recalls a bit of wisdom the industry leader, who died last week, shared at a diamond conference years ago.
Oscar Heyman takes top platinum honors
The Platinum Guild International hit the show floor prize-patrol style in Las Vegas on Sunday to reveal the winners of its annual design contest, with New York-based Oscar Heyman winning best in show.

Las Vegas--The Platinum Guild International hit the show floor prize-patrol style in Las Vegas on Sunday to reveal the winners of its annual design contest, with New York-based Oscar Heyman winning best in show.
There were a total of eight categories in the PGI-USA’s JCK 2014 Platinum Innovation Awards, including a special one recognizing the fifth anniversary of the awards. For that category, PGI-USA challenged designers to create one new platinum piece inspired by the traditional five-year wedding anniversary gift of wood.
More than 40 editors from leading consumer, bridal and trade publications reviewed and voted on the entries at an event held May 6 in New York City.
Buyers at JCK Las Vegas then voted on the designs on May 30 and 31, leading to an “Editor’s Choice” and a “Buyer’s Choice” winner in each category.
There also was a “Platinum Craftsmanship” award, which was chosen by an expert consultant and was based on overall workmanship, not the design of one particular piece, and a “Best in Show” winner selected based on the culmination of all votes.
The complete list of winners of the 2014 Platinum Innovation Awards are as follows.
Best in Show
Oscar Heyman
Platinum Craftsmanship Award
Omi Privé
Fifth Anniversary PIA Challenge
Editor’s Choice: Stuller Inc.
Buyer’s Choice: Rahaminov Diamonds
Platinum Engagement Ring
Editor’s Choice: Noam Carver
Buyer’s Choice: Designs by Vatché
Entry Platinum Engagement Ring (semi-mounts under $2,500)
Editor’s Choice: Gabriel & Co.
Buyer’s Choice: Danhov
Platinum Wedding Band
Editor’s Choice: Whitehouse Brothers
Buyer’s Choice: Dora International
Platinum Men’s Jewelry
Editor’s Choice: Cliq by Superfit
Buyer’s Choice: Lashbrook Designs
Everyday Platinum Fashion Jewelry
Editor’s Choice: Laurence Bruyninckx (IGC Brands)
Buyer’s Choice: Sylvie Collection
Platinum Red Carpet Jewelry
Editor’s Choice: Gem Platinum
Buyer’s Choice: Lazare Kaplan International
Platinum and Colored Gemstone Jewelry
Editor’s Choice: Oscar Heyman
Buyer’s Choice: Parade Designs
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