Second-Largest Diamond Ever Found Unearthed in Botswana

large diamondPhoto byT I M E L O R DonUnsplash

Botswana has made history by discovering the second-largest diamond, a massive 2,492-carat stone, unearthed at the Karowe Mine in northeastern Botswana. The large diamond obscured the face of Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi as he held it up for inspection is the most giant diamond discovered in over a century. This extraordinary find, announced by Vancouver-based mining company Lucara Diamond Corp., has been hailed as a significant achievement for the company and the country.

The intact discovery of the diamond, a feat made possible by advanced X-ray technology, is a cutting-edge method, employed at the Karowe Mine, that not only showcases the mine's remarkable potential but also shows how important it is to invest in technology. As William Lamb, President and CEO of Lucara, rightly pointed out, this find is a testament to the effectiveness of our Karowe Mine and our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in diamond mining.

This diamond is only surpassed in size by the famous Cullinan Diamond, a 3,106-carat stone discovered in South Africa in 1905. Parts of it were cut into gems that are now part of the British Crown Jewels.

The discovery of this monumental diamond comes at a pivotal time for the natural diamond mining industry, which has been grappling with the emergence of lab-produced diamonds. For Botswana, a country heavily reliant on diamond exports, such finds are crucial for bolstering its economy. While the exact value of the diamond is yet to be determined, it is anticipated to fetch tens of millions of dollars. It is likely to be cut into smaller gems for luxury brands, following the footsteps of Lucara’s previous significant finds. This discovery not only impacts Botswana's economy but also sends ripples across the global diamond industry.

As Botswana continues to lead in diamond production, Lucara’s latest discovery further cements the Karowe Mine’s reputation as a premier diamond source. This discovery is not just a one-time event, but a promising sign for the future of the diamond industry.