Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council 2026 Competition

The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council 2026 Competition
Now Open For Entries

The prestigious Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) 2026 competition is now open for entries.

The annual competition rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials.

The competition is free to enter, and open to all in the jewellery, silversmithing and allied trades, including craftpersons and designers, as well as apprentices, students and hobbyists.

For 2026, the awards comprise 34 competition categories across 2D design and 3D craft and design, seven special awards, four bursaries, three Major Awards and four Premier Awards, as well as the prestigious College Trophy, totalling 52 Awards. This year’s competition has been generously supported by 65 sponsors and patrons.

John Ball, chair of GC&DC, said: “As we look ahead to 2026, the GC&DC remains steadfast in its mission to champion innovation, exceptional design and technical excellence. This competition provides a platform for outstanding craftsmanship — a space where creativity and precision unite to celebrate the very best in jewellery, silversmithing and the allied crafts.

“Whether you’re an emerging talent or an established maker, the GC&DC Awards offer a chance to showcase your skill, experiment with new techniques and push the boundaries of design and making. We can’t wait to see the extraordinary work that 2026 will bring.”

Visit the GC&DC Website to view all of the briefs and for further details on how to enter. 

The closing date for online entries is 11th January, 2026.

Key dates for the 2026 competition are as follows:

11 January                          Online entry deadline for ALL entries

13 - 14 January                  Entry submission days at Goldsmiths’ Centre, London

9  March                             Awards Ceremony at The Merchant Taylors’ Hall, London

23 - 27 March                    Exhibition of winning designs at Birmingham Assay Office

1 July - 10 September     Exhibition at The Goldsmiths’  Centre, London

www.craftanddesigncouncil.org.uk

Image Credits:
Blue Moon Earrings by Roxanne Gilbert
Dragonfly Brooch by Alysha Strong