Halstead Bead has recently announced the return of its Bridge Jewelry Business Grant. This is the second run for this wonderful contest where the grant winner receives $6,000 in cash and merchandise as well as various other benefits.

So, what is "bridge" jewelry? Basically, the idea is that bridge jewelry bridges the gap between fine and costume jewelry. So, while fine jewelry may be made of 18kt gold and diamonds, and costume jewelry may be made of base metal painted to look like gold and faux gems, bridge jewelry is made with real gemstones and precious metals such as sterling, gold-filled, and semi-precious stones (rose quartz, tiger's-eye, etc). instead of precious gemstones. So, it's not on the high end but it's not on the low end; it's in between the two.

You can find out more about the Second Annual Business Development Grant as well as download an application at the Halstead Bead site.