Jewelry shopping just got a whole lot more interactive at Joseph Schubach Jewelers. The Web-based diamond, moissanite and other fine jewelry retailer yesterday launched two new initiatives designed to engage and inform customers -- a blog written by CEO and head jeweler Joseph Schubach and a custom jewelry contest.

The first 25 customers to order a custom design before April 15, 2008 will each automatically receive 20 percent off their purchase, as well as entry in the custom jewelry contest. Once completed, a photo of each entry will be posted in the contest gallery.

Public voting will begin in early May, allowing site visitors to choose their favorite design. The owner of the design that receives the most votes will receive a $2,000 credit toward his or her purchase. Any custom order is eligible for the contest, from a variation on a classic item to a completely custom-designed piece -- as long as it's not currently available on the Joseph Schubach Jewelers site.

"Our custom jewelry contest is a great way to showcase our clients' enormous creativity and bring our custom design abilities to the center stage," Joseph Schubach said. "Plus, we specialize in creating custom moissanite jewelry that rivals the beauty of a pricey couture diamond piece -- for a fraction of the cost. If you've been considering a unique custom addition to your collection, now's the time to save on your order -- and maybe even win our $2,000 prize."

Adding to the excitement is the introduction of the Joseph Schubach Jewelers blog. Featuring news and information on moissanite and jewelry shopping, as well as visitor Q&A, the blog is designed to offer visitors a more engaging, interactive experience.

"My new blog gives today's savvy shoppers a chance to engage in the site, create discussions and ask questions directly to me," Schubach said. "Coupled with expert customer service via phone or live chat, the blog allows us to offer more than the typical jewelry-buying experience and provide a user experience that meets the needs of the modern online shopper."