[7] The prize is named after Paul Peter Ewald for his contributions to the founding and leadership of the IUCr.
The prize consists of a medal, a certificate and a financial award (US$ 20,000 in 1987).
[8] It is presented once every three years during the triennial International Congresses of Crystallography.
The first prize was presented during the XIV Congress at Perth, Australia, in 1987.
The prize is open to any scientist who has made contributions of exceptional distinction to the science of crystallography, irrespective of nationality, age or experience.