A Canadian mining company has discovered a 2,500-carat diamond in Botswana, potentially worth over €100 million, making it the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever found.
In a monumental find, Lucara Diamond Corp, a Canadian mining company, has announced the discovery of an extraordinary 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana. Unearthed from the Karowe mine in the northeastern region of the country, this gemstone is being hailed as the largest ever found in Botswana and potentially the second-largest gem-quality diamond in history.
A Remarkable Discovery at Karowe Mine
The newly discovered diamond, described as a "high-quality" gem by Lucara, is an astonishing addition to the world of rare gemstones. The Karowe mine, known for its history of yielding large diamonds, has once again proven to be a treasure trove. In the past, it has produced other significant finds, including the Sewelo diamond (1,758 carats) and the Lesedi La Rona diamond (1,111 carats).
Botswana’s government has proudly confirmed that this is the largest diamond ever discovered within the country, underlining its significance on a global scale. While Lucara has not yet disclosed the exact value of the diamond, experts estimate that it could easily exceed €100 million, given the size and quality of the stone.
A Legacy of Giant Diamonds
This discovery is only surpassed by the famous Cullinan diamond, which weighed an incredible 3,106 carats when it was extracted in 1905 in South Africa. The Cullinan diamond was later cut into several stones, many of which are now part of the British Crown Jewels.
The recent find at Karowe mine adds to Botswana's reputation as a leading source of some of the world’s most valuable diamonds. The 2019 discovery of the Sewelo diamond, which was acquired by Louis Vuitton, marked another significant milestone, although it was not gem-quality. Similarly, the Lesedi La Rona, which fetched $53 million in 2017, further solidified Botswana's position in the diamond industry.
The Future of Botswana’s Diamond Industry
Botswana’s diamond industry continues to thrive, with the Karowe mine at its heart. The discovery of this 2,492-carat diamond not only brings economic benefits but also draws attention to the rich geological resources of the region. As global demand for high-quality diamonds persists, Botswana's role in the industry is set to remain crucial.
With the discovery of this extraordinary gem, the future looks bright for Botswana’s diamond sector, promising continued exploration and potential new discoveries that could rival even the most famous diamonds in history.
Source: The Guardian
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