Overview of the Trade Test Centre

The Limpopo Jewellery Business Incubator (LJBI) Trade Test Centre was established in 2023 to close a critical gap in the availability of accredited goldsmith trade test centres within Limpopo. Its strategic role is to provide aspiring and practicing jewellers with access to a fully accredited trade testing facility, ensuring they can complete the final qualification required to become certified artisans. This not only enhances individual career prospects but also strengthens the jewellery manufacturing industry in the province and beyond.

List of Services Offers

Types of Trade Tests Available
We currently offer the Goldsmith Trade Test, aligned with the South African Red Seal qualification.
The Red Seal is a nationally and internationally recognised trade qualification issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and administered through NAMB (National Artisan Moderation Body). This qualification validates a candidate’s technical competence and industry readiness in jewellery manufacturing.


Eligibility

  • Apprenticeship Learners: Candidates who have completed their apprenticeship training, with or without an MQA serial number, are eligible to apply. They must possess certified Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 MQA qualifications in Jewellery Manufacturing.
  • ARPL (Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning) Candidates: Individuals with 5 or more years of practical experience in jewellery manufacturing, but without formal qualifications, may apply through the ARPL route to obtain trade certification.
Accreditation
The LJBI Trade Test Centre is fully accredited by: •
  • QCTO – Quality Council for Trades and Occupations
  • NAMB – National Artisan Moderation Body
  • MQA – Mining Qualifications Authority
These accreditations ensure that the training and assessments provided are of national quality standards.

Application or Booking Services

How to Apply
Applicants are required to undergo a practical interview assessment before final acceptance.


Required Documents
Submit the following documents to apply:

  • Updated CV clearly listing all relevant training and experience
  • Certified copies of your Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 MQA certificates
  • A service letter from your previous or current employer confirming work experience
Note:
Apprenticeship learners must include evidence of program completion.
ARPL candidates must demonstrate relevant work experience of 5+ years.

Facilities & Equipment
The LJBI Trade Test Centre is fully equipped according to NAMB standards, offering a professional and industry-standard environment for trade testing. Our facilities include:
  • Advanced jewellery benches and hand tools
  • Precision machinery for melting, rolling, forming, and stone setting
  • Up-to-date consumables to accommodate all technical requirements during the trade test
  • Flexible setup to adapt to any future changes in trade testing procedures
This ensures candidates are tested in a realistic, well-supported setting, mirroring professional jewellery manufacturing environments.