One of the world’s most prestigious opal jewellery design competitions will be held in July 2009 in Lightning Ridge (world’s supplier of quality black opal), NSW, Australia.

The International Opal Jewellery Design Awards promote freeform opal with undulating surfaces and its use in jewellery. The Competition is judged by high profile industry leaders and international experts, winners receive black opal prizes and significant media exposure.

The Prestige Award is presented to an outstanding opal jewellery designer with the entry incorporating freeform opal.

The competition is run by the Opal Jewellery Design Awards Association (IOJDAA). In 2000, IOJDAA hosted the inaugural event featuring superb jewellery and freeform opal valued in excess of $30 million. The event now attracts entries form all over Australia, Canada, the USA and Spain, international jewellers and leading Australian designers.

The 2009 International Opal Jewellery Design Awards will be announced in later this year.

Venue:  Lightning Ridge Opal Festival
            Lightning Ridge Bowling Club
            Morilla Street
            Lightning Ridge NSW 2834

To find out more about the Awards visit: www.iojdaa.com.au

Click here for information on the Lightning Ridge Opal Festival, or click here to book Lightning Ridge accommodation.