The Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition is an international jewellery design contest that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation using authentic Japanese Akoya pearls.
Organized by Pearl FALCO and the Grand Prix of Akoya Pearl Jewellery in Ise-Shima Committee, this prestigious competition invites jewellery designers, students, and creative artists from around the world to showcase their talent through original pearl jewellery designs.
Each year, participants create unique designs inspired by a central theme while working with authentic Akoya pearls sourced from Japan. The competition provides a global platform for designers to gain recognition and exhibit their work internationally.
About the Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition
Akoya pearls are among the most prized pearls in the world, known for their exceptional luster, elegance, and refined beauty.
The Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition highlights the artistry of pearl jewellery while encouraging designers to explore innovative interpretations of pearl design.
Through this competition, designers can:
- Present their creativity on an international stage
- Work with authentic Japanese Akoya pearls
- Gain recognition from industry professionals
- Exhibit their designs in international exhibitions
The event also strengthens the cultural heritage of pearl craftsmanship rooted in Japan’s famous Ise-Shima pearl region.
Competition Theme 2026
“Prayer”
Deep within the quiet sea, a single pearl is nurtured through time and human devotion. In many ways, a pearl represents a silent prayer for the future.
In a world facing conflict, uncertainty, and division, pearls symbolize hope, harmony, and connection.
The 2026 theme “Prayer” invites creators to express how one pearl can represent a heartfelt wish for peace and unity — connecting hearts across people, cultures, and generations.
One pearl. One prayer. One world.
Participants are encouraged to interpret this theme creatively while honoring the elegance and meaning of pearls.
Entry Requirements
Participants must create a jewellery design using the following material:
- 1 Natural Color Baroque Akoya Pearl
- Minimum size: 7mm
- Half-drilled pearl
Each entry must be a wearable pearl jewellery design.
Participants may submit:
- A completed jewellery piece, or
- A professional jewellery design drawing
Design drawings may be submitted as:
- Digital design files, or
- Physical drawings
After completing the application and entry fee, participants will receive the official Akoya pearl material required for the competition.
Entry Fee
Entry Fee: USD $50
The entry fee includes:
- Akoya pearl material
- Domestic or international shipping
- Photography of the submitted design
- Administrative and competition management costs
How to Apply
Joining the Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition is simple.
Step 1 – Submit the Application
Complete the official application form on the Pearl FALCO website.
Step 2 – Pay the Entry Fee
Once the application is submitted, complete the $50 entry fee payment.
Step 3 – Receive Your Akoya Pearl
Participants will receive the official Akoya pearl required for the competition.
Step 4 – Create Your Jewellery Design
Design and create a wearable jewellery piece inspired by the competition theme.
Step 5 – Submit Your Entry
Submit your jewellery piece or design drawing before the official deadline.
Participants are responsible for shipping and insurance of their submissions.
Judging and Voting Process
Entries will be evaluated through multiple selection methods.
Public Exhibition and Online Voting
All creations will be exhibited publicly and displayed online.
The design receiving the highest public vote will receive the Popular Vote recognition.
Jury Evaluation
A panel of industry professionals and partner organizations will review submissions based on:
- Creativity
- Craftsmanship
- Theme interpretation
- Overall design concept
Organizer Selection
Special selections will also be made by Pearl FALCO.
Competition Schedule
The 2026 Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition follows this timeline:
- Registration Period: 1 March – 31 May 2026
- Submission Deadline: 30 June 2026 (5:00 PM Japan Time)
- Exhibition Period: July – November 2026
- Online Voting: 1 – 31 August 2026
Selected designs will be showcased in exhibitions held in Japan and Singapore.
Awards and Prizes
Outstanding jewellery designs will be recognized with the following awards:
Pearl Award (Grand Prize)
Pearl jewellery equivalent to JPY 100,000
Good Design Award
Two winners
Pearl jewellery equivalent to JPY 30,000 each
Award Recipient Benefits
Winners of the Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition will receive:
- Official Award Certificate issued by the Grand Prix Committee
- Featured designer interview video
- Publication on Pearl FALCO website and social media
- Exhibition showcase in Ise-Shima, Japan and Singapore
This exposure provides designers with valuable recognition within the global jewellery industry.
Why Join the Pearl Jewellery Design Competition?
Participating in the Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition offers unique opportunities:
✔ Work with authentic Japanese Akoya pearls
✔ Showcase your jewellery design globally
✔ Gain recognition from industry experts
✔ Exhibit your work internationally
✔ Share your artistic vision with a worldwide audience
The competition is an inspiring opportunity for designers to transform a single pearl into a powerful artistic expression.
Apply for the Grand Prix Today
If you are passionate about jewellery design and want to showcase your creativity on an international stage, apply now for the Grand Prix Akoya Pearl Jewellery Competition.
Join designers from around the world and transform one pearl into a prayer for the future.
Start your application today and become part of this global celebration of pearl artistry.
