%% The competition will be launched in association with UBM Asia per a cooperation agreement signed during the final day of the Association’s Congress in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. %% There is a void in the trade for a design competition open to color stone cutters and carvers and gem-set jewellery designers the world over. While there are regional competitions recognising the talents of artists working in colour gemstones, there has not been any international contest. Representing 47 countries, the International Colur Gemstone Association is the ideal group to lead this initiative. %% ICA President Wilson Yuen believes that such an international competition would bring out hidden talents from around the world, giving greater exposure to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity. He is also hopeful that contest categories for lapidary work would help elevate gem-cutting standards worldwide. %% Further details of the competition will be announced during the coming June Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair and the first award-presentation ceremony will be held at the September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair in 2012. %%