Michael S. Krzemnicki to Receive 2024 Bonanno Award
The director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) will be honored for his impact on gemology and dedication to advancing the science.

The Bonanno Award, established in 2000, recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the gemological field, with a majority vote of the AGA membership electing the award recipient.
Krzemnicki, who has been with the lab for more than 25 years, has had a profound impact on gemology, practicing an unwavering dedication to advancing the science and understanding of gems worldwide, said AGA.
Alongside his role at SSEF, he is a lecturer at the University of Basel and supervises gemology-related research in collaboration with Swiss universities and international research institutions.
He is a sought-after speaker and has extensive published works in scientific and trade journals, which AGA said underscores his impact on the field.
In 2017, Dr. Krzemnicki received the Gemmological Excellence Award from the Swiss Gemmological Society (SGS).
He serves on several boards and committees, including the Scientific Board of SGS, the Executive Board of the International Gemmological Conference (IGC), the Committee on Gemstone Varietal Names (CVN) by CIBJO, the Laboratory Manual Harmonisation Committee (LMHC), and the Technical Board for the Standardization of Fei Cui (Jadeite) Testing by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).
Krzemnicki will give a presentation at the AGA Gemological Conference in Tucson, Arizona, on Feb. 5, 2025, and later at the AGA gala dinner-dance, he will be honored with the 2024 Bonanno Award.
He will receive a personalized plaque and an honorarium funded by the AGA membership.
Tickets to attend the conference and gala celebration are available online.
The Latest

Current Diamond Council of America President and CEO Terry Chandler is set to retire in January 2026.

The company's Series A shares will continue to trade following a reverse stock split while its Series B shares will be delisted.

Communicating clearly with your staff is key to navigating turbulent times, writes columnist Peter Smith.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The “Inner Journey” collection debuted as the brand celebrated its 25th anniversary, with designs inspired by Morais’ journey.


Tanishq is expanding its presence in the United States with a new store in Santa Clara, California, which is its largest in the country.

Sales for Richemont’s four jewelry brands increased 8 percent, while watch sales picked up toward the end of the year.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

The retailer’s new flagship is set to open in October at the Tuscan Village development in Salem, New Hampshire.

Sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are finding their place in a U.S. market captivated by the gemstones once referred to as “semi-precious.”

Plus, parent company Saks Global announces plans to cut ties with up to 600 vendors.

Peter Smith joined Michelle Graff to chat about the state of brick-and-mortar stores and share a few book and podcast recommendations.

The necklace features a candy-colored Australian white opal in 18-karat Fairmined gold, as the brand was named a Fairmined ambassador.

Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show

A private American collector purchased the 10-carat fancy vivid blue diamond.

The designer has taken the appeal of freshly picked fruit and channeled it into a capsule collection of earrings, necklaces, and pendants.

The country’s gem and jewelry exports fell 5 percent year-over-year last month, while imports declined 18 percent.

Around 54 million Americans and counting live with a disability. Here’s how to make your jewelry store and website more accessible.

Before Pope Leo XIV was elected, a centuries-old procedure regarding the late pontiff’s ring was followed.

The one-of-a-kind platinum Rolex Cosmograph Daytona was estimated to fetch up to $1.7 million.

While the product has entrenched itself in the market, retailers and consultants are assessing the next phase of the category’s development.

The police are trying to identify the man suspected of robbing two Tiffany & Co. locations in the area.

The well-known Maine jeweler takes over for Brian Fleming and will serve a one-year term.

The donation was the result of the brand’s annual Earth Day Ingot event.

Located in NorthPark Center, the revamped store is nearly 2,000 square feet larger and includes the first Tudor boutique in Dallas.

The nonprofit has made updates to the content in its beginner and advanced jewelry sales courses.

BIJC President Malyia McNaughton will shift roles to lead the new foundation, and Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez will succeed her as president.