The Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA) has announced that Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki, one of the most respected figures in the global gemological community, is the recipient of the 2024 Antonio C. Bonanno Award for Excellence in Gemology. The prestigious accolade will be officially presented on February 5, 2025, during the gala dinner following the AGA Gemological Conference in Tucson, Arizona.
Currently serving as the Director of the Swiss Gemological Institute SSEF, Dr. Michael S. Krzemnicki has dedicated over 25 years to research, education, and innovation in the field of gemological analysis. The SSEF is globally recognized as a leading laboratory for the certification of gemstones, diamonds, and pearls.
Dr. Krzemnicki is also a renowned lecturer at the University of Basel, where he trains future generations of gemologists and oversees collaborative research projects with Swiss universities and international institutions. Throughout his career, he has received several accolades, including the Gemological Excellence Award from the Swiss Gemological Society in 2017.
Dr. Krzemnicki has played a pivotal role in advancing the gemological field, contributing to prominent technical and editorial committees, including:
- the Scientific Board of the Swiss Gemological Society (SGS);
- the Executive Board of the International Gemological Conference (IGC);
- the Laboratory Manual Harmonization Committee (LMHC);
- the Committee on Gemstone Varietal Names (CVN) of CIBJO;
- the Technical Board for the Standardization of Fei Cui (Jadeite) Testing of the HKTDC.
Beyond his institutional roles, Dr. Krzemnicki is a prolific author, with numerous articles published in scientific and industry journals, and a sought-after speaker at major gemological conferences worldwide.
On February 5, 2025, he will also be a keynote speaker at the AGA Conference, where he will present his latest research and insights on the future of gemology. During the gala dinner that evening, he will receive a personalized plaque and an award funded by AGA members, joining the distinguished ranks of gemologists who have made a lasting impact on the field.
