The $8850 Elizabethan-style ring has a matrix fire opal, 120 diamonds, textured silver and fine gold.
Dunedin jeweller Chris Idour (38) said it was a fitting symbol of what had been ‘‘a very traumatic'' 12 months for him.
‘‘Last year was a pretty rough year. I had some personal trials. I focused all my stress and tension at the time into creating the ring.
‘‘It sums up my inner will to fight for survival. That's why it's called Ginga: The Fire Inside.''
Mr Idour said he was delighted he had been named a finalist in the fine jewellery category. It was an honour and a highlight of his year to compete against some of the best jewellers in New Zealand, he said.
He had been making jewellery for more than 20 years, but this was the first time he had entered the prestigious competition.
Mr Idour said he attempted to enter the competition last year but an unfortunate postal blunder meant he missed the entry deadline.
‘‘It got lost in the post and turned up late. The second time is a charm, I guess.''
Other finalists in the fine jewellery category are Christine Hafermalz-Wheeler (Auckland), Steve Haywood (Whangarei) and Nigel Wong (Wellington).
Nikkie Gibson (Wellington and Jin Kim (Auckland) are finalists in the contemporary category.
Award winners will be announced in Wellington on June 5.
