Roussel’s jeweler wins state competition for best ring design

Roussel’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts’ jewelry designer Dennis Sprague will travel to New York in January with his award-winning engagement ring in hand to compete in the nationwide design competition.

Each year, Jewelers of Louisiana holds it’s annual design contest where entries are received from jewelers across the state.

The overall winner of the 2008 Design Contest was Sprague’s one-of-a-kind hand carved engagement ring with brilliant diamonds and hand engraving. This is the first time the store has won since the early 1990s.

Now all that there’s left to do is for Roussel’s to come out on top at the nationwide contest.

“Dennis is one of only two master jewelers certified by Jewelers of America in Louisiana,” said LaPlace store owner Earl Rodrigue Jr.. “And we’re excited to have him represent Roussel’s in New York.”

Rodrigue said that this recognition is great for the store’s reputation and helps keep the business coming in.

“Winning the state award is very prestigious,” Rodrigue said. “Our success in the jewelry design competition gives us both state and nationwide recognition. And it also gives current and potential customers an idea of what they can expect from Roussel’s – quality jewelry and one-of-a-kind designs.”

Roussel’s also won first place at the state contest in Division A with a ring designed by Montz’s Mitchell Herutin, who has been with the company for 20 years.

The Mandarin-oval garnet with accents in 14-carat white, yellow and red gold swept up the competition in the $1,000 to $2,000 category.

Rodrigue adds that the store has also released its new jewelry line, Cayenne.

“This new line of jewelry is our own creation and unique to Roussel’s,” he said. “It features sterling silver pieces accented with brilliant diamonds and is very affordable.”
And with Christmas just around the corner, Roussel’s has a gift for everyone.

“In addition to a wide variety of engagement rings priced to fit any budget, we have everything fleur de lis,” said Rodrigue. “And a tremendous amount of Orleans candles and reed diffusers are in stock this year.”

Roussel’s LaPlace and Gramercy locations are owned and operated by Amber and Chris Roussel. The Boutte store is also co-owned by Anthony Lucia. The company has been in business for over 30 years.