Perle Utopia announces the second annual Pearl Utopia International Award for Jewelry Design.

Utopia-branded South Seas cultured pearls must be the primary focus of all submissions, and designs should express the timeless symbolic value of white South Seas pearls. Participation is open to all designers and goldsmiths, whether employed by a jewelry manufacturer or working as an independent artisan. Interested designers are required to submit up to three renderings of jewelry featuring one or more Utopia pearls set in either gold or platinum. The use of other precious gemstones or diamonds is optional.

Deadline for submissions is Dec. 1. Finalists will be selected on or before Jan. 1, 2001, and the winners will be presented with an award and have their work exhibited at the Basel fair in March 2001.

Entrants can register for the contest over the Internet on the Perle Utopia Web site: www.utopia-award.com. After registering, entrants receive a private code that identifies them as a registered user. Entries also will be accepted by mail. Mailed entries must be mounted on A4 format cardboard, without any writing or signature, except for the dimensions of the jewel and the millimeter dimensions of the pearl or pearls used. Each entry must be accompanied by the private code to ensure complete anonymity.

Mail to: Secretary, UTOPIA International Award, Via Larga 31, 20122 Milano, Italy.