Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Megan Casinha

Summary

I am a creative small business owner bringing 11+ years of experience in the Jewellery Trade. As an entrepreneur, I embarked on a fulfilling journey, launching my own jewelry business with limited resources. Through a continuous process of trial and error, fueled by passion (and perhaps a tinge of ADHD), I managed to achieve a revenue milestone of half a million dollars over a two-year span. I embraced a hands-on approach, taking on various roles, from hand crafting jewelry to handling website development and opening my first Studio. My entrepreneurial journey has been a testament to my dedication and adaptability, which have contributed to the growth and achievements of my jewelry business.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Gemmologist

Self-Employed
09.2021 - Current
  • Evaluated and identified gemstones using a combination of gemmological equipment and expertise.
  • Priced diamonds and other precious stones according to market values.
  • Conducted gem tests for clients and provided appraisals for gem identification and/or insurance purposes.
  • Complied with industry guidelines regarding product disclosure, trademarking and fineness issues to avoid any legal concerns.
  • Attended tradeshows and events (in-person or online) to stay up to date on market changes, discoveries and pricing.
  • Hired to train staff and provide learning materials to heighten their understanding and confidence in handling and selling gemstones and increase revenue.


Owner, Goldsmith, Designer

Self-employed At Meg Lizabet Jewellery
01.2013 - Current

My responsibilities as a small business owner include but are not limited to the following:

  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Implemented sales systems to manage operations and scale the business such as CRM, Klaviyo, Shopify, Analytics etc.
  • Created a brand identity and persona that has acquired over 50k of genuine followers across social media accounts.
  • Built strong relationships with local and international suppliers to source quality, sustainable materials and negotiate favourable terms.
  • Worked with individual clients to design and create unique pieces, communicating effectively to establish vision and specifications.
  • Completed work with metals such as gold, platinum and silver, as well as wide range of gemstones.
  • Created high end jewellery pieces by hand fabrication, lost-wax casting and/or 3D software.
  • Managed independent contractors to complete works out of my scope or capacity.
  • Built customer loyalty, retention and referrals by delivering excellent bespoke experiences.
  • Monitored market conditions to set accurate product pricing and take advantage of emerging trends.
  • Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
  • Fulfilled online orders and managed International shipping logistics.
  • Created and collaborated on marketing strategies for social and email marketing.
  • Planned and collaborated on styled photoshoots for marketing opportunities and content creation.
  • Hired and trained staff as well as created the employee training manual and guidebook.
  • Supported local charities via profit donations and fundraising events.
  • Complied with federal and Ontario guidelines regarding product disclosure, trademarking and fineness issues to avoid any legal concerns.

Sales Associate

Pierres De Charme
02.2019 - 02.2020
  • Prepared merchandise for display by sorting, organizing, pricing and tagging.
  • Answered very specific customer questions about gemstones, their properties and characteristics.
  • Managed their CRM and QuickBooks to stay on top of leads and accounts receivable.
  • Accurately processed customer payments, issued invoices and receipts to customers.
  • Sorted gemstones and created custom layouts for customers.
  • Provided customers with detailed quotes, images and videos of gemstones Requests.
  • Fulfilled orders and shipping requirements For domestic and international clients.
  • Created content for online blog.
  • Provided direct support to jewellers who required solutions to specific jewellery needs such as repairs or custom cutting gemstones.

Sales Associate

Made You Look
10.2015 - 02.2019
  • Organized displays and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
  • Prepared merchandise for sales floor by quality checking, pricing and tagging.
  • Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
  • Assisted customers in the Bridal Gallery looking for engagement rings and/or wedding bands.
  • Guided customers through the custom process and matched them with the appropriate designer.
  • Opened and closed location, assuring proper steps were taken for security and safety.
  • Responsible for taking in repairs and providing expert advice and solutions to customer.

Education

FCGmA - Gemmology

Canadian Gemmological Association
Toronto, ON
09.2021

Bachelor of Design - Material Art And Design

OCAD University
Toronto, ON
06.2013

Skills

  • Identifying and Describing Diamonds and Gemstones
  • Diamond Grading
  • Reading and Translating Reports and Certificates
  • Jewellery Design and Fabrication
  • Training and Development
  • Analytical and Critical Thinking
  • Negotiation and Persuasion
  • Strong Customer Engagement and Relationship Building
  • Content Creation
  • Strong Social Platform Expertise
  • SEO Knowledge
  • Strong Product Knowledge and Expertise in the Trade
  • Public Speaking
  • Articulate Verbal and Written Communication
  • Computer Literacy ( Excel, Word, QB etc)
  • Team Leadership
  • Closing
  • Professional Networking
  • Inventory Control
  • Customer Accounts Management
  • CAD software
  • Sales and Marketing Methods

Timeline

Gemmologist

Self-Employed
09.2021 - Current

Sales Associate

Pierres De Charme
02.2019 - 02.2020

Sales Associate

Made You Look
10.2015 - 02.2019

Owner, Goldsmith, Designer

Self-employed At Meg Lizabet Jewellery
01.2013 - Current

FCGmA - Gemmology

Canadian Gemmological Association

Bachelor of Design - Material Art And Design

OCAD University
Megan Casinha