THIS year marks a momentous milestone for the global platinum industry: the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the Merensky Reef, the world’s most prolific source of platinum group metals, right here in South Africa.
The discovery was made by geologist Dr Hans Merensky and the reef has since played a pivotal role in South Africa’s economy and the global market.
The PlatAfrica jewellery competition will celebrate this significant centennial event under the theme ‘Legacy and beyond,’ casting forward to the industry’s boundless possibilities.
Hosted annually by Anglo American Platinum in partnership with Platinum Guild International India (PGI India) and Metal Concentrators, PlatAfrica is a flagship initiative for the industry and is intended to champion innovation and technical expertise in platinum jewellery design and manufacturing, leveraging South Africa’s position as the largest producer of platinum in the world.
Entries from professional and student jewellery designers are now open, with participants asked to take inspiration from this year’s theme: ‘Legacy and beyond’.
Over the years, the competition has been a platform for professional and emerging designers to showcase the beauty and versatility of platinum in jewellery craftsmanship. As a proud sponsor of the competition, we continue to be deeply committed to fostering innovation and excellence in the platinum jewellery industry as the 25th edition of the competition launches in celebration of the Merensky Reef centenary.
“Every year, PlatAfrica showcases the remarkable talent of South African jewellers and reflects our dedication to empowering the next generation of artisans. I look forward to seeing how the rich heritage of platinum jewellery is embodied and how its bright future is envisioned by the designers that enter this year’s competition,” said Craig Miller, CEO of Anglo American Platinum.
The competition features three prize categories: professionals, apprentices and students, as well as the People’s Choice award, where the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite jewellery piece.
In addition to prize money, winners stand the chance to be considered for participation in an international design sourcing process in 2025.
Metal requests should be submitted as soon as possible and final requests must be received on or before 3 June 2024.
Participants must submit their design pieces by 26 July 2024.
Adjudication will take place in August 2024.
For more information on this year’s competition, visit the website.
