Their vision is to supply support services to the mineral, and mining industries. They provide training, testing and consulting services to the mineral, petrology, geology, gemmology and geo-sciences sectors.
My long-time friend and gem carver, Sherris Shank, seated above.
Two other participants from the team, Monika and Beatrice from Switzerland.Visiting SEAMIC
SEAMIC is the official sponsor of our trip and has oversight over everything we as a team do. So it is here that we begin our discovery of what Tanzania has to offer. The original plan was for all the participants to take part in two, separate, full day lectures performed by Dr. Nakara Matemu, the director of SEAMIC. Since I arrived a day late, I missed the first lecture that focused on geology, but was still able to sit in the gemology class on Friday.
In addition to offering two workshop/trips per year, SEAMIC conducts year-long training in gemology and the lapidary arts. Shown below is some of their equipment.
Above, a platform-style Japanese made Imahashi faceting machine.
Above, some of the lapidary machines and flex-shafts.
Shown seated above is Huan Toh of Singapore operating an Ultratec, which is a very high quality mast-style faceting machine.
Students are primarily Tanzanian, but are welcome from all over the world. Through my visit to the facility, I witnessed first hand what is available through their facility. SEAMIC, I believe, can be a catalyst in developing careers for young Africans. During my stay in Tanzania I will look for ways that I, and others, can assist the people of this developing country.
No comments:
Post a Comment