The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Stuller, Inc., have teamed up on a new category sponsored by the manufacturing giant for AGTA’s renowned Spectrum & Cutting Edge Awards. Enter the “Stuller Color of the Year” category and award, debuting in the 2026 Awards, which open for entries at the end of June 2026.

The first color selected for the “Stuller Color of the Year Award” is Signature Red, a shade many may recognize from recent announcements by the Lafayette, Louisiana–based company.

According to Stuller, “Signature Red” is “daring yet classic” and “embodies passion, elegance, and strength. More than a hue, it’s a statement that commands attention and celebrates individuality.”

Jewels that fall into the Signature Red arena include Rubies, Garnets, Tourmaline, and many more. A judge from Stuller will select two winners, one from the Spectrum jewelry entries and one from the Cutting Edge entries, for the new award.

“With two categories, loose stone and finished jewelry, the awards will honor exceptional interpretations of Stuller’s Signature Red,” says Alissa Talbot, executive director of Diamonds and gemstones at Stuller. “This approach allows us to recognize both the beauty of a gemstone itself and the craftsmanship and design behind a finished piece.”

“Stuller is incredibly proud to partner with AGTA on the ‘Stuller Color of the Year’ Award,” says Morgan Waters, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Stuller. “Color plays a meaningful role in jewelry design and has long been a way Stuller helps the industry spot emerging trends. This Award celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion behind colored gemstones, and we’re honored to support jewelers and designers through this new addition to the Spectrum Awards.”

AGTA is thrilled with the new partnership and is eager to see the entries the new award inspires.

“AGTA is honored to bring Stuller into the AGTA fold regarding our prestigious Spectrum Awards,” said John W. Ford, Sr., CEO, AGTA, during the 2026 AGTA GemFair Tucson held last week in Arizona. “Signature Red is sure to inspire many cutters and designers to create masterpieces that will wow judges in this year’s Awards.”

AGTA’s Board President, Bruce Bridges, also sees the significance of the new Stuller partnership.

“This partnership is a meaningful one,” said Bridges. “Stuller’s dedication to the industry and contributions are wide and deep, and their sponsorship of this category is an extension of its longtime reputation for innovation and commitment to jewelers.”