RAPAPORT... Jewelry Information Center (JIC) launched a nationwide search for the "best engagement proposal" story in the U.S through its "Ultimate Proposal" contest, which will accept retailer and consumer submissions from February 15, 2010 through April 15, 2010.  JIC will post the ten best submissions on http://www.jic.org/ and put them up for a vote from April 1 to 30, 2010.

“JIC’s Ultimate Proposal contest provides Jewelers of America-member retailers with an opportunity to effectively market their business, while building customer relationships to develop lifelong customers,” said Robert Headley of Jewelers of America (JA).

The contest offers prizes for consumers, retailers and sales associates. The grand prize winner will receive platinum jewelry and a trip for two to Santorini, Greece, courtesy of Platinum Guild International, USA (PGI). The retail store that submits the winning story will receive a prize package that includes a beverage center valued at $1,000, courtesy of GE Money.  

JIC will provide participating retailers with marketing materials, including counter cards, postcard/bag stuffer, email templates and contest logos for their websites and social media networks. Current contest sponsors include GE Money, PGI, USA, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company and Onewed.com.