World Gold Council announces the 30 finalists of 4th Pan-Arab Gold Jewellery Design Contest

Of the 30 finalists selected, the majority was from the U.A.E., followed by Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The winning designs of these lucky entrants were selected from a record number of around 8000 entries, which poured in from across the world, and comprised both amateur and professional Arab designers.

Tagged as 'Al Ibda'a Al Hur' the preliminary entries to the popular contest were upraised by a judging committee from the World Gold Council and L'Azurde. The selected 30 designs are presently being manufactured by L'Azurde in Saudi Arabia and are expected to be ready by 25th June 2006. A second round of judging, from which 6 finalists - 2 per category will be selected, will follow this. The grand finale is expected to take place in the last quarter of the year, in the presence of well known Arab celebrities, fashion experts, designers and jewelers.

"It's indeed gratifying to see the progress of every stage of the Pan-Arab Gold Jewellery Design Contest, now in its fourth year. It's one of the much awaited jewellery contests in the region and judging from its response this year, its popularity has catapulted several folds. This was evident from the fact, that this edition of the contest saw the submission date for entries being extended by popular demand.

'According to reports from the judging panel, this year's designs displayed originality and innovation, both of which are vital and key factors to success in jewellery designing. Conceptualized with the aim of encouraging the latent design talent of the region, and showcasing it to the world, the 'Al Ibda'a Al Hur' contest has proved to be an excellent platform for this mission," said Mr. Moaz Barakat, Managing Director of World Gold Council in the Middle East, Turkey and Pakistan.

The Pan-Arab Gold Jewellery design contest was first launched in Saudi Arabia, then in the U.A.E., and targets jewellery lovers and artists with that special vision to capture the innate beauty and rich depth of the Arab culture. This time too, the World Gold Council has teamed up with L'Azurde, the largest jewellery manufacturer in the Arab world, who has given Future TV the exclusive rights to cover the event. On the print side, Zahrat Al Khaleej will be the official magazine for the event, and will cover it with a special report.

This year, entries to the contest were accepted under the following categories:

Bridal Wear Jewellery: Features jewellery designs for engagement and wedding occasions.

Young and Cool: Modern day jewellery featuring jewellery designs for creative fashion youth wear.

Arabian Essence: Inspiring jewellery for the Arabian women, captivating jewellery designs inspired by traditionally worn jewellery designs inspired by traditionally worn jewellery with a modern twist.

The Pan-Arab Jewellery Design Contest, which is held every year, requires participants to submit designs that are original, artistic, modern and show-stopping.