Mike Botha - Master Diamond Cutter

The art of diamond cutting demands unmatched skill, innovation, and global expertise—qualities that define Mike Botha’s illustrious career. From the early days of honing his craft in South Africa, Mike recognized the challenges in advancing diamond cutting and set out to become a leader in this field.

Throughout his journey, Mike immersed himself in every aspect of the diamond industry, mastering both traditional techniques and pioneering new methods that would set new standards for excellence. His relentless pursuit of perfection led him to study under some of the world’s most respected master cutters, absorbing their wisdom while also developing his own unique approach to the craft.

As he progressed, Mike’s reputation for precision and artistry grew, earning him opportunities to work on some of the most valuable and complex diamonds in the world. His expertise was sought after by international clients, and he became known not only for his technical skill but also for his ability to innovate—designing new cuts and refining existing ones to maximize a diamond’s brilliance and value.

Mike’s commitment to excellence extended beyond the cutting room. He dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation of diamond cutters, sharing his knowledge and passion through teaching and training programs. His influence has helped shape the industry, raising the bar for quality and craftsmanship on a global scale.

Today, Mike Botha stands as a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, vision, and a lifelong commitment to mastering one’s craft. His legacy is reflected in every diamond he touches, each one a sparkling example of artistry, innovation, and expertise.

aking on key roles like occupational certification officer and technical consultant for the Northwest Territories’ diamond programs, Mike Botha dedicated himself to raising industry standards and ensuring the region’s diamond sector would be recognized for its excellence. In these positions, he was instrumental in developing rigorous certification processes and providing expert guidance to both government and industry stakeholders, helping to establish a framework that promoted quality, accountability, and professionalism throughout the diamond pipeline.

While at Aurora College in Yellowknife, Mike identified a critical gap in the education and training available to aspiring diamond cutters and polishers. Recognizing that the future of the industry depended on a highly skilled workforce, he set out to design comprehensive educational programs that would equip students with both the technical expertise and the practical experience needed to excel. His innovative approach combined hands-on training with a strong theoretical foundation, ensuring graduates were prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

The impact of these programs was profound. Not only did they attract students from across Canada and beyond, but they also set a new benchmark for diamond education. The effectiveness and originality of Mike’s curriculum were recognized at the national level when Aurora College received the prestigious Yves Landry Award for Outstanding Innovation in Education. This honor underscored the transformative effect of his work, highlighting his commitment to advancing the craft and supporting the growth of the diamond industry in the Northwest Territories and beyond.

In 2008, as the diamond industry shifted, Mike relocated to Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, determined to explore new possibilities.

He didn’t just adapt; he pioneered, applying his expertise to develop revolutionary diamond styles such as the SIRIUS STAR®...THE WORLD’s BRIGHTEST DIAMOND®.

In 2012, Mike met New Zealand jeweller Ian Douglas at an industry event in Hong Kong, sparking a collaboration that led to the creation of the Floeting® (Diamond) Platform—a revolutionary way to showcase diamonds without traditional clasps or prongs.

Inspired by Douglas’s decades of experience and customer requests to hide clasps, the pair developed a setting that uses a micro-groove and titanium to securely hold the diamond, maximizing its brilliance and eliminating the need for visible supports.

After extensive testing, including thousands of drop tests, they found the new design to be more secure and durable than conventional settings, with no risk of wear or snagging. The innovation, which took a decade to realize, represents a significant milestone in the traditionally slow-to-change diamond industry, and for Mike, it’s just one more hurdle crossed in a lifelong pursuit of perfecting diamond display

Mike’s leadership and achievements have elevated diamond cutting into a realm of innovation, cementing his legacy as one of North America’s foremost authorities in the field.

Through his visionary approach, Mike has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in diamond artistry, introducing new techniques and standards that have redefined the industry. His influence extends far beyond the cutting room; he has inspired a culture of excellence and creativity among his peers and protégés, encouraging others to pursue perfection and embrace new ideas.

By fostering collaboration between industry experts, educators, and government agencies, Mike has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of diamond cutting in North America. His contributions have not only enhanced the quality and reputation of Canadian diamonds on the world stage but have also ensured that the next generation of cutters is equipped with the skills and knowledge to continue advancing the craft. Today, Mike’s name is synonymous with innovation, integrity, and mastery in diamond cutting—a testament to a career dedicated to elevating the art and science of this timeless profession.

In 2022, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. Created to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne, the medal serves as a tangible way for the province to honour individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their communities.