Hong Zheng, once a special lecturer to the Jewelry Institute of China’s Geology University, was the winner of the 29th annual Schuetz Design Competition, sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America. The competition, named in honor of men’s jewelry designer and entrepreneur George A. Schuetz, recognizes the best original designs in men’s jewelry and accessories.

Zheng’s design was inspired by the telescope, one of his favorite shapes as a child. “The design is neat, simple, and smooth,” he said in a GIA press release. “Cylindrical stone cutting is used throughout. It shows the gentle side of masculinity, tinged with Oriental charm.” Zheng received $500 and a trophy engraved with his name.

Second-place winner Hyun Jung Min of Seoul, Korea, designed a tie tack and cufflinks made of black onyx, white and yellow gold, and diamond melee. She is a recent graduate of GIA’s jewelry-design program.

Third-place winner Soroo Park is a Korean native working at Harry Mason Designer Jewelry in San Francisco. Her entry was a double-sided reversible pendant made of platinum, gold, diamond, and blue sapphire. Once a designer for Kia Motors, Park said her experience there inspired her to emulate man’s relationship with his car.

Entry forms for next year’s competition will be available on GIA’s Web site beginning April 1, 2006; entry deadline is June 2, 2006.