The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) proudly announced the recipients of the 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards. This year's competition witnessed a remarkable 21% increase in submissions compared to the previous year, highlighting a flourishing interest in the world of natural colored gemstones. Lezlie Slavens, representing Luxe Fine Jewelry, and Allen Kleiman of A. Kleiman & Co., were both celebrated with the prestigious Best of Show honors, recognizing their exceptional contributions to jewelry artistry and gem cutting.

John W. Ford Sr., CEO of AGTA, extended his heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and the judging panel. He noted that the significant rise in entries serves as a clear indicator of the growing appeal and popularity of natural colored gemstones within the market. This surge in enthusiasm for the awards not only underscores the vibrancy of the colored gem sector but also signals a promising trajectory for the industry as a whole.

Bruce Bridges, who serves as President of the AGTA Board of Directors and President of Bridges Tsavorite, echoed these sentiments, expressing profound gratitude to everyone involved in the competition. He remarked that the collection of entries for this year's Spectrum and Cutting Edge Awards was among the most extraordinary in the event's history. With approximately 400 outstanding submissions and incredibly close scoring, the competition exemplified an unparalleled standard of artistic expression, ingenuity, and overall excellence in gem and jewelry design. Bridges warmly congratulated all the victors, emphasizing that their achievements represent one of the jewelry industry's most esteemed and coveted recognitions.

The AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards ceremony took place at the Omni Frisco Hotel at the Star, which once again graciously served as a sponsor for the event. Additional sponsorship was provided by prominent industry entities including Stuller, Inc., Platinum Guild International (PGI), and Allan Norville and family, who support the Alfie Norville Women in Excellence Awards. Jon Gad, Chairman of the Spectrum Committee, highlighted that the winners of this year's awards brilliantly showcased the captivating allure of colored gemstones. He expressed particular satisfaction with the influx of new entrants, viewing it as a testament to the surging popularity of colored stones, and thanked everyone for their hard work and talent.

The 2026 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards underscore the dynamic and evolving landscape of the colored gemstone and jewelry industry. The increased participation and the exceptional quality of the entries reflect a thriving community of designers and lapidaries who continue to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also foster innovation and elevate the profile of natural colored gemstones on a global stage, ensuring their continued prominence and desirability.