Established in 1951, the order recognizes accomplishments in the fields of science, literature, arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers.

Dr. Cavalieri, who earlier had been recognized as a “Commendatore” (Commander) in the order, was named a “Grande Ufficiale” along with 21 of his compatriots, in the official Italian Government Gazette published on April 2, 2026. The order was bestowed by a decree of the President of the Italian Republic, as head of the orders of knighthood, on the recommendation of the President of the Council of Ministers.

Dr. Cavalieri, who was elected President of CIBJO in 2001, has served the Italian Republic in a variety of roles, both inside and outside the country.  A former President of the Italian Federation of Gold, Silver and Jewellery Wholesalers, he was also is a consultant to the Italian Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Chief of the International Relations Office of Confcommercio (Italian General Trade Organization). Additionally, he was a delegate to the Commission of Foreign Trade, specializing in the luxury industries, and an Italian delegate to the World Trade Organization, a member of the board of directors of Mondimpresa SCPA, an Italian government body for international relations and foreign trade, and a member of the board of the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade and Commerce.