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Web Site:   http://www.rings-things.com

Rings & Things announces its 2009 design contest winners

Rings & Things, the wholesale beads and findings distributor, announces its 2009 design contest winners. "Your Designs Rock!" is the apt name for this competition, as the entries that took prizes are a very high-quality group this year. Taking both the Grand Prize and the Metal Clay category prize is Lisa Pavelka, with her "Far East" pendant. Embellished with topaz crystals and a pearl, this masterwork "captures the mystery of Asia, and its manmade and natural beauty."

In the Glass & Crystal category, "Neptune's Gift" by Frances Kiperman triumphed swimmingly. This organic-feeling bracelet, created in honor of Frances' mother's memory, uses several Rings & Things components: Toho beads; charlotte-cut Czech seed beads; Rivoli and other beads from CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements; and Czech glass beads.

Shining in the Gemstones & Pearls category is Linda Valentino Michel's "Pardon My French ~ Versailles". In this bracelet, the artisan incorporated graduated crystals and weathered-looking brass for a look reminiscent of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles. Linda had a very good year in the contest, also winning the Found Objects & Miscellaneous category with her fun "Double Luck" bracelet.

The Mostly Metal category was won by Susan Walter with her "Copper Viking Knit Necklace". This piece of jewelry is timeless in a such a way that it could pass as ancient, or occupy a place of honor in a modern designer emporium.

Along with these winners, numerous Honorable Mention recipients and "Polly's Picks" (additional creations of great note) are featured in the Design Gallery at Rings & Things' website. Rings & Things congratulates and thanks everyone who participated in this year's competition, and looks forward to an even bigger 2010 contest.

Rings & Things' beads and findings catalog, plus separate charms catalog, are available for $5 (US), or for free with any order. For help and information, Rings & Things Wholesale is available 24 hours a day at http://www.rings-things.com, or by phone at (800) 366-2156.