Jewelry designs brought awards

İbrahim Burak Ünal, a student in the Department of Industrial Design, Izmir University of Economics (IUE) won second place with his earring design named ‘Varoluşun Şifresi’ (Code of Existence),using gold and sapphire, in the International Jewelry Design Competition. Ünal, who achieved great success with his extraordinary design inspired by the DNA helix, in the competition with the theme of Reborn, earned a prize of 125 thousand Turkish Liras. Another student from the same department, Çisil Begüm Kasal, made it to the finals with her necklace design titled ‘Tomurcuklanma’ (Budding), receiving a plaque.

Organized by the Jewelry Exporters' Association, the International Jewelry Design Competition received 409 designs from Turkey and around the world. The awards were presented at a ceremony held at the WOW Hotels & Convention Center in Istanbul.

DEEPLY SATISFIED WITH THE RESULT

İbrahim Burak Ünal, a third-year student in the IUE Department of Industrial Design, expressed that his design took about a month of comprehensive work. Ünal said, “I wanted to create a special earring inspired by the continuity of life and the DNA helix, considering the theme of the competition. I used gold and sapphire in my design and felt deeply satisfied with the result. The earring could also be worn as a brooch by men if desired. I was confident in my design, and when I learned that I had made it to the finals, my excitement increased even more. When I talked to my professors and friends, they told me that I would win the prize. And so it happened. I have experienced one of the happiest moments of my life. It is a great pride for me to come second in a competition with such valuable and very special designs. I would like to thank everyone who supported me.”

AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Stating that she had an unforgettable experience, Çisil Begüm Kasal, another third-year student from the same department and one of the finalists, said, “I participated with my necklace design named "Budding," crafted from silver, gold, and quartz stones. The design symbolizes the cycle of seasons and rebirth by representing spring and summer on one side and autumn and winter on the other, unified by a central tree of life. Being a finalist made me very happy. I consider it a significant achievement.  I am very happy that my classmate Burak received an award. After all, the award came to our class and our university. I congratulate Burak and I would like to thank my professors who trusted me and have always been there for me.”