The AWARD categories 2026
The most important award in the jewelry and watch industry, the INHORGENTA AWARD, will be presented in time for INHORGENTA MUNICH 2026 on February 21, 2026. This year, the top-class jury with prominent faces and international experts will again award the best jewelry, watches, retail concepts and designers in a total of ten categories. Find out everything you need to know about the categories here.
Categories:
Gemstones - multi-faceted, sparkling & unique
Convince with a special gemstone, an outstanding cut and/or an extraordinary design
All unmounted, cut coloured gemstones (single stones, pairs & sets), diamonds, gemstone objects and gemstone sculptures can be submitted under the aspect of "Something Special“. The use of syntheses is not permitted.
Criteria:
- Processing / Cut
- Special feature
- Overall impression
Important details:
A brief description of the submission and the gemstones used with special manufacturing details indicating certifications/gemstone report incl. weight/size, special features (if available: origin and value).
In addition to the craftsmanship (processing/cutting), the jury also assesses the special features and the overall impression of the submission. The respective special features of the different gemstone types and sizes are taken into account.
High-end, luxury, high jewelry – extravagant design with lasting value
High Jewelry represents the ultimate form of art and craftsmanship. Only the finest metals and gemstones are used. The exclusive High Jewelry collections are convincing because of the rarity and specialness of the gemstones or pearls used.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Retail price starting at 30,000 euros
- Precious materials (e.g. gold, platinum, natural colored gemstones, pearls or diamonds)
- Extravagant design
- High-quality workmanship
- A significant amount of work done by hand
Jewelry for eternity—timeless, elegant, and with lasting value
Pieces of jewelry with a retail price starting at 2,000 euros can be entered along with details of the materials, price, and special features.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Retail price starting at 2,000 euros
- Precious materials (e.g. gold, platinum, natural colored gemstones, and diamonds)
- Elegant, timeless design
- High-quality workmanship
- A significant amount of work done by hand
It is recommended that corresponding documents, such as a look book, press folder, or Information about social media channels and the Website are also submitted so that the jury can gain a detailed insight into the overall concept.
Master of styling—for jewelry featuring a unique design
Any piece of jewelry can be entered along with details of the materials, design concept, and company. The jewel of the designer of the year will be crowned.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Original design concept
- Artisanal quality
- Highly distinctive
The jury will evaluate the coherence of the concept based on design, creativity, and original use of materials. It is recommended that corresponding documents, such as a look book, press folder, or Information about social media channels and the Website are also submitted so that the jury can gain a detailed insight into the overall concept.
The next generation—today’s talent is tomorrow’s master
Any self-made piece of jewelry or watch can be entered along with details of the materials, price, and special features.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Proof of ongoing training or education in an industry-related profession or subject
- A description of the idea and the production process
- Proof of completed training or education in an industry-related profession or subject (no longer than two years ago)
The jury will evaluate the quality and creativity as well as the workmanship involved. The winner will be given the opportunity to exhibit at INHORGENTA MUNICH 2027 as part of the “Brand-new” concept.
The entry fee does not apply to applicants in the "Design Newcomer of the Year" category.
One entry per participant is possible for the category.
NEW:
Luxury Watches: Mechanical masterpieces — haute horlogerie paired with exclusive design.
For the category Luxury Watch of the Year | Public Choice, organized in cooperation with WirtschaftsWoche, an international panel of seven experts has selected the 14 nominated timepieces. Readers of WirtschaftsWoche will vote to determine which watch will be crowned the winner at the INHORGENTA AWARD Gala on February 21, 2026.
Criteria and entry conditions:
• Mechanical wristwatches
• Retail price: €5,000 to €75,000
• Materials: Precious metal must be used in the case or bracelet. Alternatively: Stone setting on the case or dial (no synthetic gemstones)
Precision, craftsmanship, and design in masterful balance.
Entries may include any mechanical timepiece, accompanied by details on materials, price, movement, and distinctive design features.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Well-balanced watch design
- Mechanical movement (manual-wind or automatic)
- High-quality finishing and artisanal workmanship
The jury places particular emphasis on the criteria listed above, as well as on the interplay between aesthetics and mechanics. They are looking for a timepiece that demonstrates precision, character, and masterful execution. To provide the jury with a comprehensive understanding of the overall concept, it is recommended to submit supplementary materials such as a lookbook or press kit.
This category honors timepieces whose design and technology reflect the spirit of the times and reinterpret contemporary aesthetics in an innovative way.
Any watch with an electronic movement may be submitted—from classic quartz models to smartwatches—accompanied by details on materials, price, movement, and distinctive design features.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Distinctive, original design
- A seamless connection between functionality and lifestyle
- Quality and innovation in materials, technology, or application
- High-quality finishing and tactile feel
The evaluation focuses on technological innovation, user experience, design, and the synthesis of functionality and lifestyle. Central to the judging process is the interplay between technology and aesthetics—a timepiece that unites digital precision with style and everyday usability. To provide the jury with a comprehensive understanding of the overall concept, it is recommended to submit supplementary materials such as a lookbook or press kit.
With two new award categories, INHORGENTA and GZ Goldschmiede Zeitung are placing the heart of the industry firmly in the spotlight. For the first time, the Goldsmith Studio of the Year and the Jeweler of the Year will be honored—two awards that celebrate excellence, passion, and innovation in craftsmanship and retail. They recognize individuals and businesses whose creativity, expertise, and vision are shaping the jewelry and watch market of tomorrow.
Creative mastery defines the face of craftsmanship
This category honors brick-and-mortar studios with an in-house workshop that distinguish themselves through exceptional craftsmanship, creative originality, and an unmistakable artistic signature. Whether rooted in classical goldsmithing or contemporary design, what matters is the combination of skill, concept, and character. The identity of the owner and the brand ethos should be immediately tangible in the spatial design and atmosphere of the store.
It recognizes the people and places that advance the goldsmithing craft with passion and reinterpret its values in a contemporary way.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Professional practice as a goldsmith or jeweler with an in-house workshop
- A workshop equipped with high-quality technology, contemporary standards, and an inviting atmosphere
- Independently designed and crafted jewelry pieces or collections with a clear, recognizable DNA
- Exceptional craftsmanship and an individual design style
- A strong commitment to outstanding customer service—from the very first moment, reflected in both the store design and the overall customer experience
Expertise and communication, style and service create a unique shopping experience
The Jeweler of the Year award represents retail excellence, outstanding consultation, and a compelling, fully realized business concept. It honors stores that delight customers, bring brands or their own creations to life, and advance the retail landscape with innovative ideas—supported by a strong marketing strategy across both online and offline channels.
This award honors jewelers who set standards with passion, vision, and personality and shape the future of the retail industry.
Criteria and entry conditions:
- Brick-and-mortar jewelry retailer (with no more than 8 locations)
- Outstanding consultation, service quality, and customer experience
- A contemporary store concept with a clear portfolio and assortment strategy, seamlessly linked to additional sales or marketing channels
- High service standards, for example through in-house workshops
- Innovative marketing, PR, and communication concepts, as well as a vibrant event culture that creates a consistent brand experience at every touchpoint and strengthens the jeweler’s own brand identity
Submit you application for the INHORGENTA AWARD 2026
- DEPUTY EXHIBITION DIRECTOR