AJM - MAY 2004

MJSA BULLETIN

Mark Schneider

Mark Schneider Design, Long Beach, CA

First Place, Platinum Distinction

After winning the AVA professional category in 2002, designer Mark Schneider is back again, this time with his faceted Tahitian pearl, black jade, diamond, and platinum freeform ring, which was honored with first place in the competition’s Platinum Distinction category.

The ring was fabricated in 950 platinum and has an approximate diamonds total weight of 1 carat. Its shank was created from both precious metal and steel, a combination that is rarely used for these types of pieces. While the ring comprises contrasting materials, its overall design evokes a real sense of harmony.

Two of Schneider’s constant inspirations, architecture and sculpture, are clearly evident in this piece. Standing alone, it could easily be confused with an artistic sculpture, not a piece of jewelry. And that is why Schneider is so proud of this piece. As he says, “It really inspires you to think out of the box, and see how an uncommon mixture of materials can create something so innovative and unique.”