Jewelers caught up in day-to-day operations and issues often lose sight of an element vital to the jewelry industry—the future.

In an effort to encourage the students who represent the future and whose creativity will someday fuel the jewelry industry, Schwarzchild Jewelers in Richmond, Va., recently sponsored the Genesis Award, a design contest for jewelry students at nearby Virginia Commonwealth University. The program, which included conceptual guidance, professional judging, and a formal awards ceremony, took place over the course of the spring semester. Schwarzchild professionals gave lectures to the students and directed the development of their contest entries.

In creating pieces for the event, the students were challenged to make jewelry that would represent values and beliefs 20 years in the future. Along with scale models of their creations, students submitted formal color renderings as well as written statements explaining their designs. The winner was Carol-Lyn Snol, whose necklace features two drops—one in front and one in back—representing both traditional and contemporary design elements. The piece is being created in precious metals by Schwarzchild Jewelers and will be sold to benefit the VCU Metals Department.

All of the entries were on display during a reception at Schwarzchild Jewelers in May, during which the winner was announced to students as well as to the retailers’ best clients.