The Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand (GIT) invites both Thai and foreign designers in Asian countries to enter the GIT Gem and Jewellery Design Award 2012 to vie for cash prizes worth US$12,000 (380,000 baht).

In its sixth year, the contest will be held under the theme "Jewellery Design Inspired By Thumbelina The Fairy Tale" to allow contestants to display their creativity inspired by the colourful natural scenes from the classic story.

The contest is open to students and the general public aged 18 to 40 years from Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei, India, Sri Lanka, Laos, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Each contestant is required to submit designs for a jewellery collection comprised of at least three pieces, be it necklace, earrings, ring, bracelet, bangle or brooch.

The design should be drawn on A3-sized paper with a description of the design concept.

The first round selection by a panel of experts is on Aug 31, then 30 selected entries will be manufactured and displayed in a fashion show during the final round at Siam Paragon on Nov 24.

The winner of each category will receive US$3,000 (95,000 baht), the first runner-up US$1,500 (48,000 baht) and the second runner-up US$1,000 (32,000 baht). There is also a Popular Design award worth US$1,000.

Entries should be submitted to the Training Section, 3rd floor of the GIT, ITF Tower, Silom Road by Aug 28. To view samples of design drawings and obtain application forms, visit www.git.or.th or call 02-634-4999 ext 311.