"Jewel Queen” Finalists

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32380, 20 August 1970, Page 2

"Jewel Queen” Finalists

About a million dollars worth of jewellery, much of it made by local craftsmen, was on display at the CanterburyWestland semi-final of “Jewel Queen” contest in Christchurch recently. The two finalists were Miss Christina Ryan (standing), and Miss Anne Archer, who were judged on their choice of jewellery and its suitability for the fashions they wore. All 12 entrants were sponsored by local jewellers, members of the New Zealand Jewellers’ Association, At the contest final the “Jewel Queen” will be chosen during the association’s conference in Auckland next month. A gold watch worth $5OO is the main prize. The focal point of the jewellery Miss Ryan chose to wear with her slender gown of rich, ruby red velvet was a star burst diamond brooch with 52 diamonds. The centre diamond weighed one carat. Above this, on the neck-line of the gown, she pinned a smaller brooch in similar style. Her drop earrings each contained 35 diamonds, and three pearls. On one wrist she wore an expanding gold

bracelet with 16 diamonds forming the centre piece, and on the other a white gold watch set with diamonds. A diamond cluster was her choice of ring. With her simple, black crepe, Empire-line evening gown Miss Archer wore a suite of jewellery crafted from 18 carat white gold and silver, and set with diamonds.

, Composed of necklace, ear- ' rings, watch, and ring, the ! pieces could be taken apart ■ and reformed into new designs. The diamonds from - the necklace could be fitted . into a frame to make a I brooch, and the tassels could : be rearranged, giving jewellery for all occasions. ■ Entrants were also judged - on their day-wear selections. . Both finalists received gold > watches."