Second batch of gemmology classes training rolled out

The second batch of gemmology and lapidary online classes under the Zimbabwe School Mines is underway. The training is being spearheaded by Eng. Clever Sithole who came up with the initiative upon noticing the skills gap within the Zimbabwe mining industry.

The shortage of gemological and lapidary skills in Zimbabwe has impacted negatively on the crucial interventions required to accurately unlock value from Zimbabwe’s gemstones and diamonds. After successfully launching the Silk Road Heart Gemological and Lapidary Centre in Afghanistan, Eng Sithole decided to collaborate with the Zimbabwe School of Mines so that the country can nurture its talent. The first batch of trainees completed its course in August 2022.

Zimbabwe is one of the biggest rough diamond and coloured stones producers in the World, and we continue to lose a lot of revenue through raw gemstone exports.

As part of the government’s economic blueprint, a Gemological and Lapidary Centre was envisaged to be launched in Mutare but to date, nothing has been done.

Eng Sithole obtained training in gemstones and diamonds in Belgium, Switzerland, Spain, India, South Africa and was also trained by the Gemological Institute of America. He is the first Career gemologist from Africa.

Speaking to Mining Zimbabwe on the line from Ghana where he is based, Eng Sithole said he will come to Zimbabwe and practically conduct complementary training for the benefit of the gemstone producers in Zimbabwe.