The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and Tiffany & Co. have announced a new initiative aimed at promoting diversity and making a lasting impact in the industry. They have introduced the Tiffany & Co. x CFDA Jewelry Designer Award, a fellowship program open to U.S. residents. Applications are now being accepted until August 16, 2024, with finalists to be announced in late September.
Alexandre Arnault, Tiffany & Co.’s executive vice president of product and communications, highlighted the award’s goal to support inclusivity and creative excellence in the jewelry and design sectors. The inaugural award reflects Tiffany’s commitment to fostering positive change.
The winner of the Tiffany & Co. x CFDA Jewelry Designer Award will be chosen in early 2025 and will receive a $50,000 prize. They will also have the opportunity to work with Tiffany & Co.’s design team for a year.
Finalists for the award will participate in a three-day educational event at Tiffany & Co.’s headquarters in New York City from October 8-10, 2024. During this event, they will engage in a design challenge evaluated by a jury that includes industry leaders like Frank Everett from Sotheby’s and advocates for inclusivity such as Bethann Hardison, Gabrielle Union, and Joan Smalls.
The selection committee for the award includes prominent figures like Jahleel Weaver, Jason Wu, Nathalie Verdeille of Tiffany & Co., and Rajni Jacques from Snap Inc. This initiative underscores CFDA’s commitment to celebrating American creativity and excellence in jewelry design through its CFDA Impact program.
Supported by Tiffany Atrium, Tiffany & Co.’s platform for social impact, education, community engagement, and sustainability, the award aims to elevate high-end jewelry design to the same level as menswear and womenswear in the fashion industry.
