Today, we continue the conversation with a gemmologist. Known as a \u201cDiamond surgeon\u201d, Karl Schwantes is an award-winning designer who grew up playing at the work benches of his parents\u2019 business \u2013 Xennox Diamonds.\xa0 Creating and designing pieces of his own as early as 12, he would first study science, get a psych degree and join the Australian Army - rising to the rank of Captain - before FINALLY taking over the family business and leading into this next generation.
As an internationally award winning author of the book \u201cRock Her World\u201d, he\u2019s become a social-media craftsmen who can weave a story in the written word or lead a keynote w his gentlemanly humor.\xa0
As a passionate and committed philanthropist with 4 kids, I can\u2019t wait to uncover what has this man of many talents rise up each morning in the service of other peoples loving-dream-moments!
The Goods on Karl:
An award winning designer, he is a man of many talents and a true gentleman. With a background in the military, he encapsulates the values of honour, integrity and focus. But it is his love of diamonds that truly makes him shine.
His skill at creating magnificent pieces of jewellery was honed as a child playing at the work benches in his parents\u2019 business \u2013 Xennox Diamonds. As an earnest eight year old, he helped out at the Brisbane store sweeping floors and making coffee, observing the craftsman at work, guided by his father. By the time he was 12, he was creating and designing pieces of his own. Little wonder diamonds are his passion\u2026and always on his mind.
Before making the leap into the family business, Karl studied science, earning a degree in psychology from The University of Queensland. Then driven by the desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the Australian Army rising to the rank of Captain.
Described by those who know him as a \u2018diamond surgeon\u2019, what he knows about these precious stones could fill a book or three. His regular blog posts explores the world of diamonds and jewellery, teaching people everything they could want to know.
As an award winning designer, Karl has an uncanny eye for quality and uniqueness. His craft lies in making unique jewellery but also in connecting with the people who walk through his door, taking them on a journey to find or create a special piece that tells a story. He has helped over 5,000 couples find the right piece for them\u2026 helping them create their story \u2013 stories that define life\u2019s poignant \u2013 diff word maybe moments from wedding to birth\u2026and everything in between.
As a passionate and committed philanthropist, he gives his time to a number of worthy organisations including The Zig Zag Foundation where he has sat on the board and been an ambassador for many years helping raise more than $100k for underprivileged children. As the father of four children, this a charity close to his heart.
Proudly supporting Legacy, over the past three years, Xennox Diamonds has helped them raise over $30,000. Since 2011, Karl grabs his sleeping bag in support of Vinnie\u2019s CEO Sleepout . Blessed with good fortune, he knows that sometimes life can throw a curve ball and we all need to step up to help out. Lending his voice to Vinnies is his way of helping to raise awareness about homelessness.
Contact Karl:
\xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0Website: www.karlschwantes.com.au
\xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0Instagram: @xennoxdiamonds
\xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0 \xa0LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karlschwantes
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