Ian Bone

About this Presenter

I grew up in a country town in Central Queensland learning life and customer service skills at the family retail hardware, electrical, and furniture store. We often visited the sapphire fields just west of the town with my father and I learned how to fossick for sapphires and facet and cab gemstones at an early age. I studied for an undergraduate degree in Arts/Business and then a postgraduate MBA. When I was in my mid 30’s I was appointed to a senior leadership and teaching role at CQ University. While at CQU I established a consulting business, helping small businesses, NFP organisations, and sporting clubs achieve their growth and business goals. I then left the University and went on to become a professional Yacht Captain. I was a Yacht Captain for 8 years and sailed to many global destinations. Around 2015 I got involved in gemstone marketing development and specifically involved in the marketing and promotion of four Central Queensland Gemstones.

I work with a business partner Rod Beattie and with Central Queensland gemstone producers to market, promote, and sell their gemstones.

My goal is to build a viable business and help Central Queensland gemstone producers to reach their potential by opening up new markets using new technologies and marketing initiatives. We support our local community in a range of charitable initiatives.

I'm part of the Ethical Gem Suppliers group that is committed to bringing ethically sourced gemstones to the market.