WELCOME TO AUSTIN SHINES!

Presented by Eliza Page, Austin Shines is a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of jewelry to bring people together. This inspiring initiative shines a spotlight on Austin’s local jewelry design talent through a juried competition, charitable giving, and community-centered events. Are you a passionate, Austin-based jewelry designer ready to showcase your craft? Austin Shines is your chance to connect with the industry, gain exposure, and support a powerful cause through your artistry.

 

Eliza Page invites designers from the Austin or Central Texas-area to submit their collections for consideration in the “Shining Star” jewelry design contest. Two top honors will be awarded for the outstanding collections: the Judges’ Shining Star and the People’s Choice Shining Star, for a total of four Shining Star winners (1st & 2nd place for Judges and People's Choice).

Up to 20 Shining Star designer finalists will also be required to participate in a special “Design Challenge”, where each will receive a 1–3 carat rustic diamond to feature in an original jewelry piece. These one-of-a-kind designs will be donated by the finalist designers and sold, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Center for Child Protection.

Winners will receive cash prizes, exclusive perks, professional PR, Social Media, and business consulting, and a potential six-month residency at Eliza Page to showcase and sell their work.

All Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will be displayed at Eliza Page to shop and see in-store and online Sept. 5th - Oct. 31st.

For more information on the history and inspiration for the Austin Shines Design challenge, and to learn about the Center for Child Protection, click here or visit the link below.

 

 

ABOUT

This year, jewelry designers from the Austin area are invited to submit their collections for consideration in the “Shining Star” jewelry design contest. Two top honors will be awarded for the outstanding collections: the Judges’ Shining Star and the People’s Choice Shining Star. Winners will receive cash prizes, exclusive perks, and a potential six-month residency at Eliza Page to showcase and sell their work.

 

Up to 20 designer finalists will also be required to participate in a special “Design Challenge”, where each will receive a 1–3 carat rustic diamond to feature in an original jewelry piece. These one-of-a-kind designs will be donated by the finalist designers and sold, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Center for Child Protection.

 

This year marks a special milestone as Eliza Page celebrates its 20th anniversary. In honor of this occasion, we're bringing back this project and elevating our mission to make a greater impact—supporting up to 20 finalists, and raising funds for a local nonprofit that protects and empowers children.

 

VISION

The heart of Austin Shines is about more than just beautiful jewelry—it's about building relationships, empowering local talent, and giving back. Our vision is to:

  • Showcase and support the next generation of Austin jewelry designers
  • Connect artists with retail opportunities and real-world exposure
  • Offer mentorship and education to help emerging designers grow their businesses
  • Give back to the community by donating 100% of proceeds from featured jewelry to the Center for Child Protection

By creating a space for both artistry and advocacy, Austin Shines embodies the spirit of Austin: creative, connected, and community-minded.

 

HISTORY

Elizabeth Gibson, founder of Eliza Page, introduced Austin Shines in 2010 to the fine jewelry community, bringing together Austin-area artists, retailers, designers, educators, and industry influencers to celebrate, nurture, and grow the jewelry design talent in Austin.

Eliza Page, Austin Shines quickly gained momentum, drawing over 60 designer applicants and more than 150 attendees in its first year.

That inaugural event featured educational panels led by industry leaders, a keynote from Kendra Scott, and a spirited design contest that planted the seeds for what Austin Shines would become. Over the years, this event has become a platform for creativity, mentorship, and business growth for jewelry designers across the city.

Today, Austin Shines is not only a showcase for rising stars but a celebration of community and a force for good—supporting the critical mission of the Center for Child Protection.

 

ABOUT THE CENTER FOR CHILD PROTECTION

The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center and the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. The Center utilizes a trauma-informed approach to support children who have been physically or sexually abused or who have witnessed a violent crime.

In addition to their direct services, the Center is also dedicated to empowering the community to recognize, report, and prevent child abuse by offering free education trainings. Your donation supports these services and helps make our city a safer place for kids.

 

 

DESIGN CHALLENGE OVERVIEW

DETAILS

  • Candidates must have a cohesive, minimum 10 piece jewelry collection, priced at wholesale, to be considered for Austin Shines. Jewelers will apply via the application link provided and submit their business information, website, social media account, photos, descriptions, and wholesale prices of their collection.
  • Applicant designer collections will be judged based on Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Commercial Viability. All work submitted must be original in design and made in sterling silver and or 9k-24k gold.

 

CHALLENGE + CHARITY

  • Up to 20 finalists will be accepted for the “Shining Star” collection contest and “Design Challenge” and notified via email. All contestants will be required to submit their 10+ piece jewelry collections for review by Eliza Page, and make a single piece of jewelry to be judged for the “Design Challenge”. Eliza Page will provide one, 1-2 carat rustic salt+pepper diamond for use in the charity “Design Challenge”. Jewelers will supply their own metal and can use sterling silver and or 9k-24k gold.
  • All jewelry will be submitted to a panel of jurors. The rustic diamond piece will be donated and sold at Eliza Page with 100% of the proceeds going to the Center for Child Protection.

 

GUIDELINES

  • All pieces submitted for Austin Shines must be original in design and made by the artist. Jewelry must be made in solid metal, no plating or hollow material allowed. Designs must utilize the diamond provided by Eliza Page.
  • Work must be submitted on time following the deadlines stated in the schedule.

 

 

SCHEDULE DETAILS

ANNOUNCEMENT + CALL FOR ENTRY

Call for entries and jewelry collection submission will begin on May 30th. Austin Shines will be advertised via various media outlets, email, social media, Giant Noise, WJA Austin, ACC Jewelry Department, Canopy Art Studios, Austin Fashion Week, and The Jeweler’s Saw. 

 

APPLICATIONS

Designer’s minimum 10-piece fine jewelry collection submissions and applications are due by June 20th. Artists will apply via the link provided through the Eliza Page website - Austin Shines. Austin Shines Finalists will have their collections featured at Eliza Page and will be required to participate in making a donation piece using an Eliza Page provided rustic diamond for the “Design Challenge”, benefiting the Center for Child Protection.

*APPLICATION CONSIDERATIONS*

  • Your application will not be considered unless you have completed all required fields and can submit your jewelry for consideration.
  • Physical jewelry samples will not be accepted for the initial application.
  • By applying to the design contest, any photos, jewelry, or materials you submit to Austin Shines and Eliza Page may be used for promotional purposes.
  • You must submit your jewelry priced at wholesale for retail sale by Eliza Page.
  • If you are considered as a finalist, any physical jewelry samples you submit that do not sell will be returned to you.
  • All and any additional materials you submit to Eliza Page or Austin Shines that are not required for the contest, may not be returned (like packaging).
  • Finalists will be required to participate in making a donation piece for the “Design Challenge” benefiting the Center for Child Protection. Finalists must provide metal and any other desired materials, and use the Eliza Page-provided rustic diamond.

 

FINALIST DESIGNERS ANNOUNCEMENT

Up to 20 selected Austin Shines Finalist jewelry artists will be selected and notified via email by June 24th. These Finalists will have their collections featured at Eliza Page and will be entered in the Design Challenge, benefiting the Center for Child Protection. Eliza Page will coordinate appointments for the rustic diamond pickup at Eliza Page before July 3rd. Finalist Designers will be announced via social media and other outlets on June 25th.

 

DIAMOND PICK-UP & SKETCHES

Design Challenge rustic diamond pickup is due before July 3rd. Proposal sketches for donation pieces are due July 16th. Artists will send sketches via email austinshines@eilzapage.com.

 

JEWELRY

All donation “Design Challenge” rustic diamond pieces and the finalist’s 10+ piece jewelry collections are to be delivered to Eliza Page by August 13th. Jewelry will be merchandised and sold in the Austin Shines Showcase at Eliza Page and in store through the remainder of the challenge. Eliza Page Clients can purchase these rustic diamond pieces during this time to benefit the Center for Child Protection. All other jewelry item sales will be paid to the designer at wholesale cost, within 30 day of sale and must be invoiced. Eliza Page will report any sales on a bi-weekly basis to designers.

 

STORE SHOWCASE

Finished works will be displayed at Eliza Page for the public and jurors to see in store and online September 5th - October 31st. Eliza Page will merchandise the jewelry to fit the store aesthetic, all display materials will be provided by Eliza Page. Each artist’s name will be featured alongside their jewelry. Artists will be promoted through various media outlets and to the Center for Child Protection’s benefactors.

 

JURY PROCESS

Two Shining Star awards will be given– a “Judges Shining Star” and a “People’s Choice Shining Star”.

There will be winners for both the Austin Shines jewelry collection contest, and the “Design Challenge” rustic diamond charity piece.

Judges Shining Star Winners will be judged by an industry expert group of judges in the areas of:

  • Creativity and Innovation
      • Craftsmanship and Technique
      • Commercial Appeal and Viabilty

People’s Choice Winners will be voted for online via peers and the general public, giving Austin-area artists more exposure through online marketing.

 

WINNERS

The Judge’s winners receive:

  • Austin-area gift cards and cash up to $1000
  • A possible residency at Eliza Page to sell their work for at least 6 months

 

The people’s Choice winner receives:

  • Austin-area gift cards and cash up to $500
  • Various gift bags

 

THE SHOWCASE

The Austin Shines experience culminates in an unforgettable evening that brings the magic of local design, community, and purpose together under one roof. On September 5th, Eliza Page will host the Red Carpet Designer Showcase Cocktail Party —a glittering celebration honoring the Shining Star finalists and their extraordinary jewelry collections.

Guests will enjoy an exclusive first look at the finalists’ work, mingle with designers, jurors, and supporters, and shop limited-edition pieces crafted just for this event. Light bites, cocktails, and a lively crowd make this the can’t-miss jewelry event of the summer.

This is more than a showcase—it's a celebration of artistry and impact. Every jewelry piece designed for the Design Challenge features a one-of-a-kind rustic diamond and is sold in support of our charitable partner, the Center for Child Protection.

Following the event, all finalist designs will remain on display and available for purchase at Eliza Page from September 5th through October 31st, giving the Austin community a chance to shop, support, and celebrate local talent.

 

Eliza Page invites designers from the Austin or Central Texas-area to submit their collections for consideration in the “Shining Star” jewelry design contest. Two top honors will be awarded for the outstanding collections: the "Judges’ Shining Star" and the "People’s Choice Shining Star" for a total of four Shining Star winners (1st & 2nd place for Judges and People's Choice).

 

Up to 20 Shining Star designer finalists will also be required to participate in a special “Design Challenge”, where each will receive a 1–3 carat rustic diamond to feature in an original jewelry piece. These one-of-a-kind designs will be donated by the finalist designers and sold, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Center for Child Protection.

Winners will receive cash prizes, exclusive perks, professional PR, Social Media, and business consulting, and a potential six-month residency at Eliza Page to showcase and sell their work.

All Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will be displayed at Eliza Page to shop and see in-store and online September 5th - October 31st.

For more information on the history and inspiration for the Austin Shines Design challenge, and to learn about the Center for Child Protection, click here or visit the link below.

 

 

HOW IT WORKS

DETAILS

Candidates must have a cohesive, minimum 10 piece jewelry collection, priced at wholesale, to be considered for Austin Shines. Jewelers will apply via the application link provided and submit their business information, website, social media account, photos, descriptions, and wholesale prices of their collection. Applicant designer collections will be judged based on Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Commercial Viability. All work submitted must be original in design and made in metals such as sterling silver, brass, bronze, and / or 9k, 10k, 14k, 18k, 22k, or 24k gold (no plating).

 

CHALLENGE + CHARITY

Up to 20 Shining Star designer finalists will be accepted for the “Shining Star” collection contest and “Design Challenge” and notified via email. All contestants will be required to submit their 10+ piece jewelry collections for review by Eliza Page, and designer finalists will also be required to make a single piece of jewelry to be judged for the “Design Challenge”. Eliza Page will provide one, 1-2 carat rustic salt+pepper diamond for use in the charity “Design Challenge”. Jewelers will supply their own metal and can use sterling silver, brass, bronze, and / or 9k-24k gold (no plating). All jewelry will be submitted to a panel of jurors where they will vote for 1st & 2nd place for both the "Judges Shining Star" and a "People's Choice Shining Star" award. All Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will be displayed at Eliza Page to shop and see in-store and online September 5th - October 31st. The rustic diamond piece will be donated and sold at Eliza Page with 100% of the proceeds going to the Center for Child Protection.

 

 

GUIDELINES

All pieces submitted for Austin Shines must be original in design and designed or made by the artist. Jewelry must be made in solid metal, no plating or hollow material allowed. Applicants must be Austin-area or Central Texas based (Hill Country towns are ok!) and be the primary designer or maker of your jewelry collection. Work must be submitted on time following the deadlines stated in the schedule.

See full requirements on the application here.

 

LEARN MORE

ABOUT AUSTIN SHINES

& how you can support charity

Eliza Page supports the Center for Child Protection annually with ongoing donations and various support, and is proud to benefit it through Austin Shines jewelry sales. 100% of Austin Shines Design Challenge rustic diamond jewelry piece sales will benefit the Center. 

Read more about the history and inspiration for the Austin Shines Design challenge, and how you can support the Center for Child Protection.

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT AUSTIN SHINES INSPIRATION

& how you can support charity

 

Eliza Page supports the Center for Child Protection annually with ongoing donations and various support, and is proud to benefit it through Austin Shines jewelry sales. 100% of Austin Shines Design Challenge rustic diamond jewelry piece sales will benefit the Center. 

Read more about the history and inspiration for the Austin Shines Design challenge, and how you can support the Center for Child Protection.

 

 
Cheryl Mills Knight is a marketing executive and one of the founding members of Kendra Scott, a leading global jewelry brand. As the first marketing hire in 2005, she established the framework for the company’s in-house marketing agency. Now, as Senior Vice President of Brand & Culture, Cheryl drives the brand vision centered around Family, Fashion, and Philanthropy, playing a crucial role in the company’s growth into a billion-dollar brand. She serves as an advisor to The Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute at the University of Texas at Austin, and has been a guest lecturer at The Art Institutes, Savannah College of Art and Design, the University of Texas at Austin, and Temerlin Advertising Institute at Southern Methodist University.

Elizabeth established the fine jewelry store Eliza Page in 2004 to provide fashion forward, high-quality, handcrafted pieces to Austin’s discerning clientele. After making and selling jewelry locally for years, she recognized the city's need for a creatively driven, design-focused jewelry store, and turned a life-long hobby as a jewelry designer and maker into the dream job she now enjoys. Elizabeth has a BA in English Literature from Baylor University, founded the Austin Chapter of the Women’s Jewelry Association, and is a member of the American Gem Society.

Megan is one of the founders and co-owner of the award-winning, Boston, MA, fine jewelry store MFlynn. Megan graduated with a BA from Colby College, and worked in marketing in Boston before pursuing her Master of Science at Medill School at Northwestern University. She also has earned her Graduate Gemology Degree (G.G.) from GIA. With a true love for jewelry and design, Megan loves to travel to exhibits and read to learn more about all types of jewelry.

 

Jen is the founder and owner of her eponymous fine jewelry collection, Jen Leddy Studios. Jen’s passion for creating tiny things began in childhood and evolved into a love for ceramics, eventually leading her to jewelry making after a life-changing metal smithing class in Florence, Italy. She refined her craft at the Revere Academy in San Francisco and built her business through hands-on custom work and organic growth. Now based in Austin, TX, Jen designs each piece from her private studio.

 

Lorenna is the Austin Chapter President of the Women’s Jewelry Association and the founder of Wanderbliss Jewelry, a local brand inspired by joy, exploration, and connection. She discovered her passion for jewelry through metal smithing classes in Austin and has been active in the creative community ever since. A multicultural Latina, she draws inspiration from global experiences—and when she's not making jewelry, she’s behind a camera or out on long walks.

 

Jenny O. is a third-generation jeweler and the passionate owner of award-winning, Huntington Jewelers in Las Vegas. With over 25 years of experience, she blends traditional values with modern design, offering expert custom creations and exceptional service. Known for her warmth and creativity, Jenny loves helping clients celebrate life’s most meaningful moments through personalized, beautifully crafted jewelry. Jenny is a Graduate Gemology Degree (G.G.) from GIA and a is a member of the American Gem Society.

 

Moria is one of the founders and co-owner of the award-winning, Boston, MA, fine jewelry store MFlynn. After attending Bowdoin College, Moria traveled extensively before settling in Argentina where she initially worked in banking. After, she attended business school at MIT’s Sloan School of Management, to pursue her passions for business, management and retail – and eventually design. At Sloan, she was president of the business school’s retail club and hosted retail leaders from all sectors. Moria loves building new jewelry pieces and creates many of the pieces in our cases.

 

 

 

SCHEDULE DETAILS

  • Austin Shines Announcement & Call For Entries: May 30
  • *EXTENDED* Designer Applications + Submissions: Due by July 8
  • Designer Selection: July 9-11
  • Announcement of Designers: July 12
  • Diamond Pick up for “Design Challenge”: By July 16
  • Design Sketches Due for “Design Challenge” Donation item: By July 23
  • Final Jewelry and Donation Items Due at Eliza Page: By August 14
  • Jury Voting Begins: August 14
  • Voting for People’s Choice Designer: Begins August 14 | Ends Sept 2
  • Announce Winners: September 4
  • Austin Shines Designer Showcase Red Carpet Cocktail Party: September 5
  • Designer Collection Showcase at Eliza Page: Sept 5-October 31

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE DETAILS

 

  • Austin Shines Announcement & Call For Entries: May 30
  • *EXTENDED* Designer Applications + Submissions: Due by July 8
  • Designer Selection: July 9-11
  • Announcement of Designers: July 12
  • Diamond Pick up or Delivery for “Design Challenge”: By July 16
  • Design Sketches Due for “Design Challenge” Donation item: By July 23
  • Final Jewelry and Donation Items Due at Eliza Page: By August 14
  • Jury Voting Begins: August 14
  • Voting for People’s Choice Designer: Begins August 14 | Ends September 2
  • Announce Winners: September 4
  • Austin Shines Designer Showcase Red Carpet Cocktail Party: September 5
  • Designer Collection Showcase at Eliza Page: September 5-October 31

 

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENT + CALL FOR ENTRY

Call for entries and jewelry collection submissions will begin on May 30th. 

 

APPLICATIONS

Designer’s minimum 10-piece fine jewelry collection submissions and applications due date is now EXTENDED to July 8th. Artists will apply via the link provided through the Eliza Page website. All Austin Shines Shining Star Finalists will have their collections featured at Eliza Page and will be required to participate in making a donation piece using an Eliza Page provided rustic diamond for the “Design Challenge”, benefiting the Center for Child Protection.

*APPLICATION CONSIDERATIONS*

  • Your application will not be considered unless you have completed all required fields and can submit your jewelry for consideration.
  • Physical jewelry samples will not be accepted for the initial application.
  • By applying to the design contest, any photos, jewelry, or materials you submit to Austin Shines and Eliza Page may be used for promotional purposes.
  • You must submit your jewelry priced at wholesale for retail sale by Eliza Page.
  • If you are considered as a finalist, any physical jewelry samples you submit that do not sell will be returned to you.
  • All and any additional materials you submit to Eliza Page or Austin Shines that are not required for the contest, may not be returned (like packaging).
  • Finalists will be required to participate in making a donation piece for the “Design Challenge” benefiting the Center for Child Protection. Finalists must provide metal and any other desired materials, and use the Eliza Page-provided rustic diamond.

 

FINALIST DESIGNERS ANNOUNCEMENT

Up to 20 selected Austin Shines Finalist jewelry artists will be selected and notified via email by July 11th. These Finalists will have their collections featured at Eliza Page and will be entered in the Design Challenge, benefiting the Center for Child Protection. Eliza Page will coordinate appointments for the rustic diamond pickup at Eliza Page by July 16th. Finalist Designers will be announced via social media and other outlets on July 12th.

 

DIAMOND PICK-UP & SKETCHES

Design Challenge rustic diamond pickup is by/before July 16th. Proposal sketches for donation pieces are due July 23rd. Artists will send sketches via email austinshines@eilzapage.com.

 

JEWELRY

All donation “Design Challenge” rustic diamond pieces and the finalist’s 10+ piece jewelry collections are to be delivered to Eliza Page by August 14th. Jewelry will be merchandised and sold in the Austin Shines Showcase at Eliza Page and in store through the remainder of the challenge. Eliza Page Clients can purchase these rustic diamond pieces during this time to benefit the Center for Child Protection. All other jewelry item sales will be paid to the designer at wholesale cost, within 30 day of sale and must be invoiced. Eliza Page will report any sales on a bi-weekly basis to designers.

 

STORE SHOWCASE

All Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will be displayed at Eliza Page to shop and see in-store and online September 5th - October 31st. Austin Shines "Shining Star" winning collections will be sold for at least 6 months. Eliza Page will merchandise the jewelry to fit the store aesthetic, all display materials will be provided by Eliza Page. Each artist’s name will be featured alongside their jewelry. Artists will be promoted through various media outlets and to the Center for Child Protection’s benefactors.

 

JURY PROCESS

Two Shining Star awards will be given– a “Judges Shining Star” and a “People’s Choice Shining Star” for a total of four Shining Star winners (1st & 2nd place for Judges and People's Choice).

There will be winners for both the Austin Shines jewelry collection contest, and the “Design Challenge” rustic diamond charity piece.

Judges Shining Star Winners will be judged by an industry expert group of judges in the areas of:

      • Creativity and Innovation
      • Craftsmanship and Technique
      • Commercial Appeal and Viabilty

 

People’s Choice Winners will be voted for online via peers and the general public, giving Austin-area artists more exposure through online marketing.

 

WINNERS RECEIVE:

 

 

 

 

PROJECT TIMELINE

Overview

 

 

THE SHOWCASE

The Austin Shines experience culminates in an unforgettable evening that brings the magic of local design, community, and purpose together under one roof. On September 5th, Eliza Page will host the Red Carpet Designer Showcase Cocktail Party —a glittering celebration honoring the Shining Star finalists and their extraordinary jewelry collections.

Guests will enjoy an exclusive first look at the finalists’ work, mingle with designers, jurors, and supporters, and shop limited-edition pieces crafted just for this event. Light bites, cocktails, and a lively crowd make this the can’t-miss jewelry event of the summer.

This is more than a showcase—it's a celebration of artistry and impact. Every jewelry piece designed for the Design Challenge features a one-of-a-kind rustic diamond and is sold in support of our charitable partner, the Center for Child Protection.

Following the event, all Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will remain on display and available for purchase in-store and online at Eliza Page from September 5th through October 31st. All Shining Star winning jewelry collections will be sold for at least 6 months, giving the Austin community a chance to shop, support, and celebrate local talent.

THE SHOWCASE

The Austin Shines experience culminates in an unforgettable evening that brings the magic of local design, community, and purpose together under one roof. On September 5th, Eliza Page will host the Red Carpet Designer Showcase Cocktail Party —a glittering celebration honoring the Shining Star finalists and their extraordinary jewelry collections.

Guests will enjoy an exclusive first look at the finalists’ work, mingle with designers, jurors, and supporters, and shop limited-edition pieces crafted just for this event. Light bites, cocktails, and a lively crowd make this the can’t-miss jewelry event of the summer. This is more than a showcase—it's a celebration of artistry and impact. Every jewelry piece designed for the Design Challenge features a one-of-a-kind rustic diamond and is sold in support of our charitable partner, the Center for Child Protection.

Following the event, all Shining Star Winners' jewelry collections will remain on display and available for purchase in-store and online at Eliza Page from September 5th through October 31st. Austin Shines Shining Star winning collections will be sold for at least 6 months, giving the Austin community a chance to shop, support, and celebrate local talent.

 

 

CONTACT US

For questions or more information, please email us at austinshines@elizapage.com

 

SPONSORS

 

 

SPONSORS