MJSA Press Room

For Immediate Release

Posted: March 27, 2002

Released by MJSA

For Additional Information Contact:
Stasia Walmsley, Director of Marketing and Public Relations
1-800-444-MJSA, ext. 3022, stasia@mjsainc.com

American Vision Award Winner Donates Prize Money to MJSA Education Foundation

Providence, RI-On March 12, at a meeting of the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) Education Foundation, jewelry designer Mark Schneider presented the foundation trustees with $1,500-his prize money as first-place winner in the professional division of the MJSA American Vision Award design competition. Schneider requested that the donation be put toward the foundation's scholarship fund.

Schneider, owner of Schneider Design Studios in Long Beach, California, said that he appreciates the Education Foundation's work, and credits the scholarships and awards he's received for developing confidence in his designs.

"Like musicians, designers perform to get applause," Schneider said. "The AVA competition gives recognition to young student designers, and it gives artists a positive feeling and recognition. It also stimulates business and, in the contest pieces, allows designers to push the envelope. The winning piece may be unsalable, but I filled up one or two drawing books with designs of what will be incorporated into my line."

Schneider's winning piece was a platinum, white and black diamond, and black pearl ring that hinges to open, and can also be worn as a pendant. A photo of the piece, along with the two other professional division winners, is available here.

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