The Accredited Gemologists Association is accepting nominations for the 2014 Antonio C. Bonanno Excellence in Gemology Award, which recognizes major contributions made in the field.

Nominees for the award must have made a significant contribution to the gemological field in an area such as research or education, or they must have defended and upheld gemological standards in a way that has benefited the larger gem and jewelry community.

The call for nominations is open to the international gem trade, and membership in the AGA is not required to nominate a candidate or be nominated for the award. The deadline for submissions is Sept. 30.

The AGA’s voting members will select the winner in November. The honor consists of a specially commissioned bronze plaque and medallion and $2,000 cash prize. Recipients are honored each year in Tucson, Ariz., at the awards gala and dinner-dance held at the conclusion of the AGA Gemological Conference.

The 2014 conference will be held Feb. 5 at the Marriot University Park Hotel.

For more information on how to submit a nomination, visit accreditedgemologists.org/award. 

JCK