The government has confirmed that this is the largest diamond ever discovered in the country.
Colossal 2,492-Carat Diamond Discovered in Botswana: Potentially the Second-Largest Gem-Quality Stone Ever Found
Botswana has once again made headlines in the diamond industry with the discovery of a colossal 2,492-carat raw diamond. This remarkable find, which could potentially be the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever unearthed, highlights the nation’s prominence in the global diamond mining sector. The diamond was recovered by Lucara Diamond Corp, a Canadian mining company that operates the Karowe diamond mine, a site renowned for yielding some of the world’s most significant stones.
A Historic Discovery
Lucara Diamond Corp. recently announced the recovery of this “exceptional” diamond, sharing an image of the massive rough stone cradled in a hand. The discovery adds to Botswana’s legacy of producing some of the world’s most extraordinary diamonds, reinforcing the country’s status as a key player in the diamond industry. Lucara’s president, William Lamb, expressed his excitement about the find, stating, “We are thrilled with the recovery of this extraordinary 2,492-carat diamond.”
This discovery is not only a milestone for Lucara Diamond Corp. but also a significant moment for Botswana. The government has confirmed that this is the largest diamond ever found in the country, marking a new chapter in Botswana’s diamond mining history.
Comparisons to the Cullinan Diamond
The newly discovered diamond is poised to become the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever recorded, following closely behind the legendary 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond. Unearthed in South Africa in 1905 during British colonial rule, the Cullinan diamond remains the largest gem-quality diamond ever found. After its discovery, the Cullinan diamond was presented to King Edward VII and was later cut into several gems, some of which now adorn the British Crown Jewels.
The significance of the Cullinan diamond in the history of gemology is immense, and the recent discovery in Botswana draws inevitable comparisons. While the exact value of Lucara’s latest find remains undisclosed, the potential of this diamond to yield high-quality gemstones is a topic of great anticipation. The diamond industry, collectors, and investors alike are eager to learn more about the future of this extraordinary stone.
Lucara’s Legacy in Diamond Discoveries
The Karowe mine, where this 2,492-carat diamond was found, has a history of producing large, high-quality stones. In 2019, the mine yielded the 1,758-carat Sewelo diamond, which was, at the time, the world’s second-largest mined diamond. The Sewelo diamond, despite its black appearance and the uncertainty surrounding the number of gems it could produce, was acquired by French luxury brand Louis Vuitton for an undisclosed sum.
Another significant discovery from the Karowe mine was the 1,111-carat Lesedi La Rona diamond, found in 2017. This extraordinary stone was sold to a British jeweler for $53 million (£40 million), further cementing Karowe’s reputation as a source of some of the world’s most valuable diamonds.
Botswana’s Rising Influence in the Diamond Industry
Botswana has steadily risen to prominence in the diamond industry, not only through its significant discoveries but also by negotiating better terms with major players like De Beers. Last year, Botswana secured a new 10-year agreement with De Beers, owned by Anglo-American, that granted the country a larger share of the diamonds mined within its borders. This strategic move underscores Botswana’s determination to maximize the benefits of its natural resources.
While Russia is currently the world’s largest diamond producer, Botswana has become a leading source of significant finds in recent years. The discovery of this 2,492-carat diamond further strengthens Botswana’s position in the global diamond market and demonstrates the country’s potential to continue making history in the industry.
Looking Ahead
As the diamond remains unnamed, there is considerable anticipation surrounding its future. Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi is expected to be among the first to view the newly discovered diamond before it is officially presented to the public. This event will likely draw significant attention from both the global media and the diamond industry.
The discovery of this diamond is a testament to Botswana’s ongoing success in the diamond industry and Lucara Diamond Corp’s expertise in mining and recovering exceptional stones. As the world awaits further details about the diamond’s value and potential, Botswana’s status as a diamond powerhouse continues to shine brightly.