A remarkable discovery has been made in Botswana, as a 2,492-carat raw diamond has been unearthed at the Karowe diamond mine. This massive gem could potentially be the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever found, sparking excitement and anticipation within the diamond industry.
The Canadian mining company Lucara Diamond Corp, which operates the Karowe mine, announced the discovery of this exceptional stone. A photo released by the company shows the hefty rough diamond resting in the cupped palm of a hand, giving viewers a sense of the sheer size and weight of the precious find.
The largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered was the legendary 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond, which was mined in South Africa in 1905 and later cut into several gems that are now part of the British Crown Jewels. The recent discovery in Botswana is a significant milestone in the world of diamond mining, showcasing the continued potential for uncovering extraordinary treasures beneath the earth’s surface.
William Lamb, the president of Lucara Diamond Corp, expressed his excitement over the recovery of the 2,492-carat diamond, describing it as „extraordinary.“ The value of this high-quality diamond has not been disclosed, and it remains to be seen whether it can be cut into smaller gems for jewelry purposes.
Botswana’s government has confirmed that this diamond is the largest ever discovered in the country, further solidifying Botswana’s status as a key player in the global diamond industry. The Karowe mine has been known for yielding increasingly larger stones in recent years, with notable finds such as the 1,758-carat Sewelo diamond and the 1,111-carat Lesedi La Rona diamond.
The Sewelo diamond was purchased by luxury brand Louis Vuitton in 2019, despite its black appearance and uncertain potential for cutting into gems. The Lesedi La Rona diamond was acquired by a British jeweler for $53 million in 2017, highlighting the immense value placed on these rare and extraordinary stones.
While the Sergio stone, discovered in Brazil in 1895, remains the largest diamond ever found, it was not of gem quality and was instead used for industrial purposes. In contrast, the recent discovery in Botswana holds the promise of yielding valuable gems that could potentially adorn jewelry pieces and become coveted treasures in the world of luxury.
Botswana’s growing prominence in the diamond industry is evident, with the country negotiating a larger share of stones mined by major companies like De Beers. This strategic move aims to enhance Botswana’s position as a leading diamond producer and exporter, further solidifying its influence in the global market.
As Botswana’s president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, prepares to view the newly discovered diamond before it is unveiled to the world, anticipation and excitement continue to build around this extraordinary find. The unveiling of this as yet unnamed diamond is sure to captivate the attention of diamond enthusiasts, collectors, and industry experts worldwide, showcasing the enduring allure and fascination of these rare and precious gems.