The International Gemological Institute (IGI) has announced the winners of the fifth edition of IGI Expressions 2025–26, its global jewellery design contest, which attracted more than 1,000 entries from 55 countries.

The competition ran online from December 1, 2025 to January 31, 2026. The theme for the edition was “Unveiling the Depths of the Ocean”, inviting participants to interpret elements such as the ocean’s movement, resilience and hidden features through original jewellery design concepts.

Entries were assessed by an international jury panel comprising Lisa Koenigsberg, President and Founder of Initiatives in Art & Culture (USA); Ashraf Motiwala, Director at A S Motiwala Fine Jewelry (India); Helen Mao, International Jewellery Consultant (China); Suuraj Popley, Founder and Director at Popley Eternal (India); and Farah Yazbeck, Founder of Joia Jewels (UAE).

Designs were evaluated on the basis of creative concept, wearability and the accompanying design description. According to IGI, the judging process involved reviewing submissions from a shortlist of 60 finalists across three categories — Statement Piece, Convertible Jewelry and Brooch — and three design formats: CAD, manual sketch and iPad design.

Nine winners were selected across the categories. The winners are Vangie Carrillo (USA), Malay Biswas (India), Xu Na (China), Pratiksha Tambe (India), Tanmay Rit (India), He Huishi (China), Vibhoo Bhargava (India) and Peilin Yao (China). Vangie Carrillo secured wins in two categories.

In the Statement Piece category, the winners were Vangie Carrillo, Malay Biswas and Xu Na. The Convertible Jewelry category recognised Pratiksha Tambe, Tanmay Rit and He Huishi, while the Brooch category winners were Vangie Carrillo, Vibhoo Bhargava and Peilin Yao.

Each winner will receive a cash prize of $ 500, along with a trophy and a certificate. IGI stated that winners will also receive recognition through the institute’s international platform.

Tehmasp Printer of IGI said, “Congratulations to all the winners! As a global jewelry design contest, IGI Expressions™ continues to provide emerging and professional designers an inclusive platform to showcase their talent without geographical barriers.”

He added that continued participation from multiple countries reflects the initiative’s role in supporting design talent and innovation across the global jewellery industry.

IGI Expressions is conducted as a free, fully online competition aimed at providing access to designers globally. According to IGI, the programme has expanded in participation and geographic reach with each edition since its launch.