“I pulled my Rings & Things inventory and let my imagination take over. Yes, there were challenges along the way—this is the third design I created. This first two were disassembled because they weren't quite right. I really enjoy incorporating copper into my designs along with, or instead of, silver and gold. 'Pearls That Swim' features copper and silver accents and the shimmer of the pearls, along with the 'water' of the amazonite that makes this design complete." - Joanne Safron Feissle

Polly’s Picks are designs our editor especially liked despite the fact that they did not win a formal prize. These designs are often simple, practical and/or whimsical examples of how to use Rings & Things components well. Review the 2008 contest details to see what this contestant was up against. And remember, it’s never too early to start planning for the 2009 contest!