By Emily Stegman

Nadezda Zudina used Rhino, a software program that creates 3D designs, to illustrate her "Ruffled Queen's Collar of Hearts" necklace design.

The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) honored GIA student Nadezda Zudina for her second place standing at the 10th annual DIVA Awards during the JCK International Jewelry Show in Las Vegas, Nevada in June.

More than 200 members and colleagues gathered at V-Bar in the Venetian Hotel to view the winning entries and recognize their designers.

The 2006 theme, "Queen of Hearts," inspired Zudina to research and draw from 14th and 15th century trends among English royalty for her "Ruffled Queen's Collar of Hearts" design. Her 3D depiction of an interconnecting heart necklace in white gold and diamonds was a favorite among the judges, who evaluate each design based on originality, creativity, wearability and interpretation of the theme.

"This year's entries were fun and fanciful, taking the theme of 'Queen of Hearts' literally as well as figuratively," said Cindy Edelstein, judging organizer for the DIVA Awards. "Nadezda's entry impressed the judges with its sense of drama and artistry."

Zudina, a graduate of GIA's Applied Jewelry Arts and Graduate Jeweler programs, earned $1,000 for her second place design. The Russian-born designer plans to enroll in the Institute's Graduate Gemologist program to continue her preparation for a career in designing and manufacturing.

"These programs really helped me to be more professional in designing jewelry," Zudina said of her GIA education. "Now I understand that I can draw any crazy idea that comes up in my head, but also recognize that not all of my ideas can be done in metal and not all of them can be wearable or comfortable."

She said she will continue to participate in design competitions throughout her career. First place and a $2,500 prize went to Nina Basharova for her "Heart to Heart" necklace design in 18K gold with diamonds and a coral drop. Yoko Murakami took home $500 for her third place "Crown Ring" design in 18K yellow gold, rubies and diamonds. Seven other designers were awarded honorable mention certificates.

The DIVA Awards competition was established in 1997 to encourage women to express their creativity through gemstones and precious metals. Any woman, regardless of her experience in the industry or with jewelry design, may submit an original color rendering for consideration.

The WJA is a national organization committed to providing a forum for professional women in the jewelry industry to learn more about their related business and each other.