New York, NY – Sept. 12, 2018. The Cultured Pearl Association of America (CPAA) announces today that it is extending the deadline for entries to its 9^th Annual International Pearl Design Competition (IPDC). The deadline is now Friday, Sept. 28.

The goal of the IPDC is to create compelling new pearl jewelry designs worthy of recognition, media exposure, and potential rewards. The CPAA celebrates pearls of all varieties and encourages seasoned and award-winning artists and beginners alike to compete in the IPDC.

Two divisions—international and domestic—are new for this year. Those who live outside the U.S. compete by submitting renderings and sketches, while those who live within the U.S. will compete in two stages with finished jewels.

Winning pieces will be announced on Nov. 1. Winning pieces in the U.S. division will immediately go on a retail store tour beginning at the Clay Pot in New York City, then traveling to Max’s in Minneapolis, and one other store to be announced later. Pieces will be for sale at each location. Items that remain unsold move on to the next destination, and all unsold items at the end of the tour will be returned to their makers. 

The cost to enter is now $175 for first entry and $150 for each additional entry. In its 10 years of operation, the IPDC has attracted thousands of entries from more than 40 countries.

“Entries are pouring in and we are excited for the judging process,” says Kathy Grenier, marketing manager.

For awards categories, entry instructions, and complete contest details, click here.