Tell us about the origins of Floeting.
The idea for the Floeting Diamond wasn’t only about designing a new proprietary cut; it was about redefining how diamonds are presented in jewelry. The real challenge wasn’t just in shaping the diamond differently, but in thinking about the diamond and setting as one integrated design system. That shift led us on an extended journey of research, collaboration, and a departure from traditional design and manufacturing methods to adopt new technologies and processes. The result is a patented setting that securely holds a diamond without any visible metal while maintaining exceptional light return.
Can you explain the technical aspects of the Floeting diamond setting?
Past methods attempting to achieve a prongless diamond — such as drilling, notching, or using softer, precious metals — have often compromised either security or light return, especially in larger diamonds.
The Floeting diamond’s patented diamond shape is specifically designed to maintain full light return, with a precision-engineered micro-groove [in the diamond] that allows it to be securely set in a high-tensile specialist alloy, eliminating the need for visible metal prongs or bezels. This design was independently proven to deliver 20% more strength than traditional settings, ensuring both exceptional security and unobstructed light performance.
The Floeting Diamond was independently certified and achieved the Ideal cut [grade] from the Gem Certification & Assurance Lab (GCAL), and the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) triple Ex grading. Additionally, it achieved the American Gem Society Laboratories (AGSL) Ideal Cut grade prior to [the lab’s] merger with GIA.
Unlike previous proprietary cuts utilizing traditional settings, Floeting integrates the diamond and setting into a single, seamless unit. It is a fully engineered system that enables designers to incorporate a licensed, pre-set Floeting Diamond component into their collections, reducing the need for complex setting processes while unlocking an entirely new aesthetic.
As designers, we see limitless potential for how this technology can be used — not just in classic solitaires, but across a range of creative jewelry designs.
The Floeting setting has been in development for 17 years. Can you walk us through the journey from concept to realization?
Developing a commercially viable prongless setting required solving three key challenges: security, brilliance and scalability.
The diamond had to be held securely while eliminating visible metal. It had to enhance, rather than obstruct, light return. The diamond shape had to be redesigned to ensure it did not affect the 4Cs. And the technology had to be manufacturable at scale.
To achieve this, we collaborated with experts across multiple disciplines, including master diamond cutter Mike Botha, who I worked with to develop the patented Floeting diamond shape — featuring 50% more facets to maximize light return while ensuring a secure connection. We also worked with Dr. Grant Lumsden, a former Formula 1 racing process engineer, to apply precision engineering principles to the setting’s design. Independent testing confirmed [the setting’s superior strength and] impact resistance.
As jewelers and designers ourselves, we immediately saw the creative possibilities Floeting unlocked. But we also understood how important it was to make this enabling technology accessible to other designers. That’s why Floeting is a licensed component, allowing jewelers to integrate it into their collections while maintaining their own unique design identity.
How did you secure the funding and resources necessary to bring this innovation to life?
The Floeting Diamond required significant investment in research, development, and collaboration with global experts from various industries. While largely self-funded by the founders of Floeting — myself, Christine Douglas and Chris Benham — support from the New Zealand government through New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) and Callaghan Innovation was critical to success. Equally important was the collaboration with experts across industries within New Zealand and around the world.
How does being based in New Zealand influence Floeting’s approach to jewelry and innovation?
New Zealand has long been a hub for innovation, producing pioneers who have redefined industries — from Bruce McLaren, who revolutionized motorsports, to Rocket Lab, which is advancing aerospace technology…. Visionary filmmakers Peter Jackson and James Cameron also choose to live and create in Wellington, drawn by its cutting-edge special effects and creative energy.
That same pioneering spirit drives Floeting, born from a nation unbound by tradition and willing to challenge the status quo. Our team embodies this mind-set, bringing exuberant creativity, technical expertise, and a relentless pursuit of innovation to fine jewelry.
Are there any new developments in the pipeline?
The most exciting part about Floeting is that we’ve only just begun to explore its possibilities. Because the diamond and setting are engineered as one, we are adapting this technology to different cuts, carat sizes, and even colored gemstones.
The patented Floeting Platform can accommodate a gemstone from 0.25 carats upward. With its versatile technology, new cuts and gemstones can be accommodated in the future.
What’s the legacy you hope the Floeting setting will leave in the world of fine jewelry?
We hope its legacy is simple: unlocking new creative possibilities for visionary jewelry designers around the world. By enabling an entirely new way to showcase a diamond, we want designers to look at Floeting and think, “This is something that can elevate my creations.”
Having worked on collections for some of the world’s biggest jewelry brands, we know that collaboration fuels innovation. That’s why we’re excited to see how the best designers and creative minds will push Floeting even further. The future of diamond setting is here, and we’re just getting started.
Ultimately, and most importantly for the customer, it’s about experiencing a diamond in a way that feels completely different. It’s as if the diamond is floating effortlessly above the setting, allowing it to shine in an almost magical way.
Main image: Floeting’s founders (left to right) Chris Benham, Christine Douglas and Ian Douglas. (Wellington NZ)
