Botswana has made headlines once again in the world of diamonds with the recent discovery of the largest diamond in over a century. President Mokgweetsi Masisi proudly displayed the massive 2,492-carat diamond at a viewing ceremony in Gaborone, showcasing the impressive find to the world on Thursday, August 22, 2024.
The Record-Breaking Find
The diamond, which remains unnamed at this point, is a remarkable specimen weighing approximately half a kilogram. It was unearthed at the Karowe Mine in central Botswana, marking a significant milestone in the country’s history of diamond mining. This exceptional 2,492-carat gem is not only the second-largest ever discovered in a mine but also the biggest diamond found since 1905.
President Masisi expressed his awe and gratitude at being able to witness such a historic moment. “It is overwhelming,” he remarked, visibly impressed by the sheer size and quality of the diamond. As he beheld the precious stone, Masisi couldn’t contain his amazement, exclaiming “wow” before inviting senior government officials to join him in admiring the rare find.
A Diamond of Unprecedented Value
While the exact value of the diamond has yet to be determined, officials are already anticipating its potential worth in the market. Notably, a smaller diamond from the same mine was sold for a record-breaking $63 million in 2016, setting a high standard for the value of rough gems. Naseem Lahri, the Botswana managing director for Lucara Diamond Corp., the Canadian mining company responsible for the discovery, expressed immense pride in the find, calling it a testament to Botswana’s diamond industry.
Lucara Diamond Corp. revealed that the diamond was recovered using advanced X-ray technology specifically designed to locate large, high-value diamonds. The company’s President and CEO, William Lamb, hailed the discovery as “history in the making,” emphasizing the exceptional quality of the rough diamond found at the Karowe Mine. This significant find not only cements Botswana’s position as a leading producer of natural diamonds but also highlights the country’s continued success in unearthing some of the world’s most valuable gemstones.
A Legacy of Exceptional Diamonds
The recent discovery adds to Botswana’s legacy of uncovering extraordinary diamonds, with the Karowe Mine having produced several notable finds in recent years. Prior to this record-breaking find, the Sewelo diamond, discovered in 2019 at the same mine, was recognized as the second-largest mined diamond in the world at 1,758 carats. This exceptional gem was acquired by French fashion house Louis Vuitton, underscoring the global appeal and value of Botswana’s diamonds.
In addition to the Sewelo diamond, the Karowe Mine has yielded other notable discoveries, including the 1,111-carat Lesedi La Rona diamond, purchased by a British jeweler for $53 million in 2017. Another remarkable diamond from the same mine, known as The Constellation, fetched a record $63 million, showcasing the enduring allure and value of Botswana’s precious stones in the international market.
The Geological Significance
Diamonds, formed from carbon atoms under high pressure deep underground, offer a glimpse into the Earth’s geological history. Most diamonds are believed to be at least a billion years old, with some dating back over 3 billion years. These ancient gemstones provide valuable insights into the planet’s geological processes and the conditions under which they were formed, making them not only rare and beautiful but also scientifically significant.
Botswana’s rich diamond deposits and the exceptional quality of its finds have solidified its position as a key player in the global diamond industry. With the recent discovery of the 2,492-carat diamond, the country continues to captivate the world with its impressive gemstones, showcasing the natural beauty and geological wonders that lie beneath its soil.
As Botswana celebrates this historic find, the diamond serves as a symbol of the country’s enduring legacy in the world of precious stones, highlighting its continued success in unearthing some of the most remarkable diamonds in history. With President Masisi leading the way in showcasing this exceptional gem to the world, Botswana’s diamonds shine brighter than ever before, reaffirming the country’s status as a premier destination for extraordinary gemstones.
