Ben C. Labens
Summary
Lusaka, Zambia
Gemstone Processing and Lapidary Specialist experienced in gemstone processing and jewelry operations. Achieved high-quality work meeting international standards through expertise in gemstone cutting, polishing, and sorting by color, clarity, and size. Delivers precise assessments in gemstone identification, grading, and valuation, enhancing quality control and inventory management.
Skilled gemologist with experience in identifying, grading, and valuing a variety of precious stones. Possess strong knowledge of gemological tools and equipment in addition to a deep understanding of gemstone properties. Notable for precise assessments, contributing to improved quality control and inventory management in previous roles. Displayed ability to communicate complex gemological information clearly to customers and colleagues alike.
Overview
16
16
years of post-secondary education
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Gemologist, Lapidary, Consultant
Bodega Inc Ltd, Zambia and Emerald City Gems & Jewelry
, Zambia & USA
07.2022 - Current
- Head Gemologist
- Assessed gemstones for quality, clarity, color, cut, carat weight, ensuring optimal selection for clientele.
- Evaluated gemstones for quality and authenticity using advanced testing equipment and enhanced customer confidence in purchases.
- Trained junior staff on gemstone identification techniques and customer service practices.
- Collaborated with suppliers to secure high-quality gemstones, contributing to diverse and premium inventory offerings.
Lapidary Manager
Maria Ruby
, Portugal
09.2022 - 06.2023
- Www.mariaruby.com
- Enhanced gemstones through advanced cutting and polishing techniques to improve quality and aesthetic appeal.
- Collaborated with departments to align organizational goals and initiatives, fostering a cohesive strategy.
- Oversaw project timelines and resource allocation, ensuring on-time delivery and effective use of resources.
Head Gemologist and Lapidary Manager
Jewel of Africa
01.2016 - 02.2022
- Directed all gemstone lapidary operations.
- Conducted appraisals to determine the value of various gemstones and jewelry items.
- Collaborated with design teams to create unique, custom jewelry pieces.
- Guided customers in selecting fine jewelry pieces, enhancing their shopping experience and satisfaction.
- Performed appraisals of gemstones and jewelry items to accurately determine value, supporting informed purchasing decisions.
- Www.jewelofafrica.com
Lapidary assistance
Fantasy Gems/Zambezi Jewel
Lusaka, Zambia
02.2013 - 02.2015
- Provided strategic direction for precision gemstone cutting and polishing, and promoted product development aligned with company vision.
- I worked under the supervision of the director, developing strategies that will translate into making Fantasy Gems/Zambezi Jewel, an acknowledged leader in the provision of gemstone cutting and jewelry solutions in the Zambian and international markets.
- Www.fantasygemsltd.com
Lapidary assistance and gemstone buyer assistant
Mcfirster and Associates/Chobe Gems
03.2012 - 03.2013
- Www.chobe.com
- Acquired gemstones through careful selection to meet market demands.
- Executed high-quality gemstone cutting and polishing to enhance final product quality.
- Sorted and categorized gemstones by type and quality to streamline inventory management.
Gemstone cutting and polishing
Attachment Jewel of Africa Intercontinental Hotel
05.2011 - 08.2011
- Cut and polished gemstones, ensuring precise facet orientation to comply with international standards.
- Www.jewelofafrica.com
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
Education
Craft Certificate & Certificate of Gemstone Processing And Lapidary Training - Gemstone Processing And Lapidary Training
Gemstone Processing & Lapidary Training Centre
Ndola, Zambia 01.2010 - 12.2012
Certificate of Attendance -
Gemstone Processing and Lapidary Training Centre
Ndola, Zambia 01.2010 - 01.2012
GCSE Ordinary Level Certificate -
Mwense Secondary School
Mwense, Zâmbia 01.2006 - 11.2008
Primary School Certificate -
St. Clements high school
Mansa, Zambia 01.2004 - 11.2005
Junior primary school certificate -
Lusaka High School
Lusaka, Zâmbia 01.1997 - 11.2003
Skills
- Gemology
- Advanced lapidary techniques
- Gemstone evaluation
- Polishing innovations
- Training
- Team management
- Detail orientation
- Problem solving
- Excellence
- Interpersonal skills
- Expert color grading
- Diamond characteristics
- Accurate carat estimation
- Gemological equipment
- Industry networking
- Expert grading techniques
- Technical grading knowledge
- Skilled appraisal techniques
- Synthetic gem detection
- Diamond evaluations
- Jewelry design
- Gem identification
- Jewelry Manufacturing
Professional Accomplishments And Skills
- Excellent interpersonal and team-management skills, Trained 3 people in gemstone cutting & polishing and gemology while at gemstone processing and lapidary training Centre and Fantasy Gems/ Zambezi Jewel Lusaka in gemstone processing and lapidary., Currently training women in gemstone processing and lapidary at 'FREE,' an organization aimed at empowering women under NGOCC.
- Innovative Problem Solver, Successfully trained various individuals at Jewel of African and in Portugal, in gemstone polishing and cutting., Detail oriented and strives for excellence., Best graduating student in gemstone cutting and polishing class of 2012, Gemstone Processing & Lapidary Trading Center.
Timeline
Lapidary Manager
Maria Ruby
09.2022 - 06.2023
Head Gemologist, Lapidary, Consultant
Bodega Inc Ltd, Zambia and Emerald City Gems & Jewelry
07.2022 - Current
Head Gemologist and Lapidary Manager
Jewel of Africa
01.2016 - 02.2022
Lapidary assistance
Fantasy Gems/Zambezi Jewel
02.2013 - 02.2015
Lapidary assistance and gemstone buyer assistant
Mcfirster and Associates/Chobe Gems
03.2012 - 03.2013
Gemstone cutting and polishing
Attachment Jewel of Africa Intercontinental Hotel
05.2011 - 08.2011
Craft Certificate & Certificate of Gemstone Processing And Lapidary Training - Gemstone Processing And Lapidary Training
Gemstone Processing & Lapidary Training Centre
01.2010 - 12.2012
Certificate of Attendance -
Gemstone Processing and Lapidary Training Centre
01.2010 - 01.2012
GCSE Ordinary Level Certificate -
Mwense Secondary School
01.2006 - 11.2008
Primary School Certificate -
St. Clements high school
01.2004 - 11.2005
Junior primary school certificate -
Lusaka High School
01.1997 - 11.2003