The Accredited Gemologists Association will award the Antonio C. Bonanno Award For Excellence in Gemology to James Shigley of the Gemological Institute of America Gem Trade Laboratory.

Shigley, a GIA distinguished research fellow is the author of many articles on diamonds and other gemstones, and a well-known speaker on gemological topics to both professional and general audiences. He helps direct GIA’s research activities on the identification of natural, synthetic, and treated diamonds; colored stones; and pearls. He continues to advance GIA’s gem research program to support the jewelry trade to meet the challenges of gem identification. Last summer marked his 25th anniversary with the Institute.

The Antonio C. Bonanno award—named in honor of the AGA’s founding father—was created to recognize people who have made significant contributions to the gemological field. The award—which includes a check for $2,000—calls attention not only to the outstanding contributions of the recipient, but to the responsibility of the gemological community to encourage and reward ongoing research, education and dissemination of information. 

Previous winners of this prestigious award include C.R. Beesley, Robert Crowningshield, Richard Drucker, Henry Hanni, Alan Hodgkinson, Alan Jobbins, John Koivula, and Antoinette Matlins.

In related news, AGA elected its new slate of officers and board members. They are as follows:

President: Donna Hawralko
Vice President: Kathryn Bonanno
Secretary: Tracy Aros
Treasurer: Monica Caldwell

Governors: Teri Newman-Brosmer, Stuart Robertson, Antoinette Matlins, Nancy Stacy, Craig Lynch, Gary Smith

President-elect Donna Hawralko is the director of education of the Canadian Gemmological Association. She holds a FGA degree in gemology and the FCGmA title from the CGA.

The term for these officials will run from 2008 to 2010.

JCK