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World-renowned diamond cutter Mike Botha takes a few minutes to talk about cutting the American Esperanza diamond in front of camera crews, and passer-bys while the jewelry store was open for business. Mike goes in to the long hours, stress, and shear logistics needed.
– CLICK ON PHOTO FOR SHOW NOTES –
Mike Botha is considered one of the foremost authorities on diamond design, cutting and polishing in North America and trained under David du Plessis.
He has cut and polished large diamonds including one of the diamonds in the Premier Rose Diamond collection- the Premier (baby) Rose diamond, weighing 353.9 carats (70.78 g) in its rough state along with Willem Joubert.
Most recently, he has been commissioned to cut the 8.52ct Esperanza Diamond discovered at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas.
Mentioned In The Show & Links
Connect with Mike Botha and Embee Diamond Technologies on social media: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter You Tube Website
Embee Diamond Technologies – A family-owned diamond cutting and polisher atelier located in Canada. We are your master diamond cutters! We specialize in cutting Sirius Star®…the world’s brightest diamond® and offer our network of Customers a dedicated diamond re-cut, repair, re-polish, and restoration service. We aim to cut the finest diamonds to the highest cut grades- whilst pushing the boundaries of diamond design for optimal light performance.
Evert P. Botha RS – Chief Operating Officer at Embee Diamond Technologies. Our diamonds are only available through an exclusively appointed network of independent jewelers, goldsmiths, and designers. If you’re looking for diamonds that are a cut above the rest- talk to us. Each and every one of our Customers has a direct-to-factory relationship, and are welcome to drop in anytime! We’re proud members of the American Gem Society, Jewelers of America, Diamond Bourse of Canada and Responsible Jewellery Council. You can reach Evert on LinkedIn.
American Gem Society – The American Gem Society (AGS) is a trade association of retail jewelers, independent appraisers, suppliers, and selective industry members, which was founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley. Members are held to a high code of ethics with emphasis on consumer protection and education. The Society trains and certifies jewelers, gemologists, and jewelry appraisers. Diamond grading is the specialty of the American Gem Society Laboratories and the Society has developed its own cut, color, and clarity standards.
Erica Courtney – For three decades, Erica Courtney has defined style and luxury with an iconic collection of chic statement pieces that push the boundaries of artisan jewelry. Her signature Drop Dead Gorgeous collection, adorned with vivid colored jewels, whimsical designs, and intricate details seduces one with the perfect blend of feminine charm and attraction.
Jason Quick – Jason is currently the AGS laboratory director, and will soon become executive director. He was an instrumental member of the team that created the AGS light performance grading system.
Peter Yancer – Peter established the American Gem Society Lab in 1995 and led it for two decades, will retire this November 2015. He will continue as a consultant to the lab for the next three years. In 2005, Peter won the AGS Robert M. Shipley Award, its highest honor.
Sirius Star Diamond – Named after the brightest star in the night sky, Sirius Star® features greater scintillation and increased light return, improved brilliance and higher visual appeal than other round brilliants. The entire Sirius Star® Constellation is the brainchild of Canadian diamantaire and master diamond cutter Mike Botha – drawing on a lifetime of experience as well as extensive research and consultation with leading diamond experts in North America.
Stanley Jewelers Gemologist – Stanley Jewelers Gemologist of North Little Rock, AR, has a proud tradition of three generations of fine jewelry and fine service in the South. Charles B. Stanley began as a watchmaker in downtown North Little Rock in 1936, until he and his wife, Sally, opened a small jewelry store. That store has grown throughout the years and today stands on beautiful Park Hill. American Gem Society members since 1966, Stanley’s is proud of its reputation as leaders in quality, ethics, and education.
The host of “Inside the Jewelry Trade” Radio Show – Jewelry Business Strategist – President of Four Grainer LLC. Author of the business books “A Reason To Chant,” and “A Reason to Chant – Jewelry Trade Edition.” Rod lives in Atlanta with his wife and two almost-human cats.