wecastonlineIn a stunning discovery that’s captivating the world, Lucara Diamond Corp., a Vancouver-based company, has unearthed the second-largest diamond ever found. This incredible gem weighs a staggering 2,492 carats and was pulled from the depths of the Karowe Mine in Botswana. The historic stone, which is yet to be named, is causing waves in the diamond industry and beyond.
An Unparalleled Find in the Heart of Botswana
The Karowe Mine, known for producing some of the world’s largest diamonds, has once again yielded a true giant. The newly discovered diamond, weighing half a kilogram, was showcased in a special viewing ceremony at the office of Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi. This was no ordinary event, as the president himself became one of the first to hold the colossal stone.
“This is history in the making,” exclaimed Naseem Lahri, the managing director of Lucara’s Botswana division. The pride in the air was palpable, as this remarkable find was not just a product of the mine but also a testament to Botswana’s growing prominence in the diamond world.
A Legacy of Exceptional Diamonds
Lucara Diamond Corp. is no stranger to extraordinary discoveries. The Karowe Mine, which has been operational since 2012, has produced hundreds of diamonds over 100 carats. This latest find outshines even the most notable of its predecessors, including the 1,758-carat Sewelo Diamond discovered in 2019 and the famed 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona Diamond, sold for $53 million in 2017.
While the value of the new 2,492-carat diamond is yet to be determined, experts are already drawing comparisons to another giant from the same mine. In 2016, an 813-carat diamond known as the Constellation was sold for a record $63 million.
A Diamond Steeped in History
The title of the largest diamond ever found still belongs to the Cullinan Diamond, a 3,106-carat gem unearthed in South Africa in 1905. This legendary stone was later cut into several smaller diamonds, some of which now adorn the British Crown Jewels.
Yet, not all massive diamonds are clear and pure. The largest known diamond is actually a carbonado, or black diamond, known as the Sergio. Discovered above ground in Brazil in the late 1800s, it’s believed to have come from a meteorite. Unlike the Cullinan, the Sergio carbonado was broken into smaller pieces for industrial use, as its high density made it perfect for tools like drill bits.
Lucara’s Cutting-Edge Technology: The Key to Success
The recent discovery was made possible thanks to Lucara’s advanced Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray Transmission technology. This cutting-edge method allows the company to detect and recover massive diamonds without damaging them, showcasing their commitment to innovation in the field.
Lucara’s CEO, William Lamb, expressed his excitement: “This find not only showcases the remarkable potential of our Karowe Mine but also upholds our strategic investment in cutting-edge technology.”
Botswana’s Diamond Legacy Shines Bright
Botswana, with a population of just 2.6 million people, is the second-largest producer of natural diamonds in the world, trailing only behind Russia. In recent years, the country has solidified its place as a global diamond hub, with nearly all of the largest stones coming from its mines.
The Karowe Mine, in particular, has played a central role in this narrative. Since its opening, it has produced over 328 diamonds exceeding 100 carats, making it one of the most productive mines on the planet.
What’s Next for the 2,492-Carat Giant?
For now, the future of this colossal gem remains uncertain. Lucara has yet to decide how or when the stone will be sold, and experts are eagerly awaiting its valuation. If past sales are any indication, this could very well become one of the most valuable diamonds in history.
As we marvel at this incredible discovery, one thing is certain: Botswana’s diamond industry continues to shine as brightly as ever, and Lucara’s Karowe Mine remains at the forefront of unearthing these breathtaking gems that capture the world’s imagination.
What do you think about this historic discovery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
