Signature Red Ignites American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Spectrum Awards

Gems News: The world of colored gemstones is about to get a dramatic new focal point as the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Stuller Inc. unveil an exciting addition to one of the industry’s most prestigious competitions. In a move that blends trend forecasting with artistic celebration, the two organizations have announced the launch of the Stuller Color of the Year Award, set to debut at the 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting-Edge Awards.

The new category introduces a bold annual spotlight on a single defining hue, beginning with Stuller’s 2026 selection: Signature Red. The award will officially open for entries at the end of June 2026, inviting designers and gem cutters to interpret the vibrant shade through both finished jewelry and loose stones. This Gems News report highlights that the initiative is more than a sponsorship; it is a strategic collaboration aimed at inspiring innovation across the gemstone and jewelry sectors.

A Bold Debut with Signature Red

Signature Red, chosen as the inaugural color, is described by Stuller as “daring yet classic,” a tone that embodies passion, elegance, and strength. The shade encompasses some of the most revered gemstones in the trade, including rubies, garnets, and tourmalines, among others. It is a color long associated with romance, power, and timeless luxury, making it a natural choice to launch the new award.

According to Morgan Waters, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Stuller, color has always played a meaningful role in jewelry design. He emphasized that Stuller has historically helped the industry identify emerging trends, and this new award is a celebration of the creativity and craftsmanship behind colored gemstones. Waters noted that the company is honored to support jewelers and designers through this addition to the Spectrum Awards.

Honoring Both Stone and Setting

What sets the Stuller Color of the Year Award apart is its dual recognition format. A judge from Stuller will select two winners: one from the Spectrum jewelry entries and one from the Cutting Edge entries, which focus on loose gemstones. This structure ensures that both the natural beauty of a gemstone and the artistry of a finished piece receive equal recognition.

Alissa Talbot, Executive Director of Diamonds and Gemstones at Stuller, explained that the two-category approach allows the award to honor exceptional interpretations of Signature Red from different creative angles. By celebrating both the raw allure of a gemstone and the craftsmanship behind a completed design, the award aims to showcase the full spectrum of talent within the trade.

Industry Leaders Applaud the Partnership

The announcement was made during the 2026 AGTA GemFair Tucson in Arizona, where industry leaders expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. John W. Ford, Sr., CEO of AGTA, described the partnership as an honor for the association, adding that Signature Red is certain to inspire cutters and designers to create masterpieces that captivate judges and collectors alike.

AGTA Board President Bruce Bridges echoed the sentiment, calling the partnership meaningful and highlighting Stuller’s longstanding dedication to innovation and service within the jewelry industry. He noted that the sponsorship reflects Stuller’s deep contributions and ongoing commitment to supporting jewelers worldwide.

A Legacy of Craft and Color

Founded in 1970 by Matthew Stuller and headquartered in Lafayette, Louisiana, Stuller Inc. has grown into a leading manufacturer serving jewelry professionals globally. Its extensive offerings range from bridal jewelry and fine jewelry to gemstones, metals, tools, packaging, and digital solutions. AGTA, established in 1981 and headquartered in Dallas, continues to serve as “The Authority in Color” for the natural-colored gemstone and cultured pearl industry.

As the 2026 awards approach, anticipation is already building. Designers and cutters now have a vivid muse in Signature Red, a color that promises to spark bold interpretations and unforgettable creations. With its blend of tradition and modern flair, the Stuller Color of the Year Award signals a fresh chapter for the Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards, one that could redefine how the industry celebrates color in the years ahead.

For more details on the AGTA competition, visit: https://agta.org/press-release-stuller-agta-announce-stuller-color-of-the-year-category-for-agta-spectrum-cutting-edge-awards/

For more coverage on the coming 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting-Edge Awards, keep on logging to Gems News.

Read Also:

https://bangkokgems.news/