Historic Discovery: Second Largest Diamond Unearthed in Botswana by Lucara
A Canadian company, Lucara Diamond, has discovered a rough diamond weighing 2,492 carats in Botswana’s Karowe mine, making it the second-largest diamond ever found. This find surpasses the previous record in Botswana of 1,758 carats, enhancing Botswana’s reputation as a top diamond producer globally.
A remarkable discovery has been made in Botswana, where a Canadian company, Lucara Diamond, has uncovered a rough diamond weighing 2,492 carats, marking it as the second-largest diamond ever found. This significant find was made at the Karowe mine, located approximately 500 kilometers north of Gaborone, the capital of Botswana. The newfound diamond is surpassing the previous record-holder for Botswana, which was a 1,758-carat diamond unearthed from the same site in 2019. Notably, the discovery of this diamond emerges over a century after the find of the renowned Cullinan diamond, which weighed 3,106 carats and was discovered in South Africa in 1905, with portions of it becoming part of the British Crown Jewels. The government of Botswana declared this diamond to be the largest ever discovered within its borders, and Lucara highlighted the extraordinary nature of this gem, stating that it is “one of the largest rough diamonds ever unearthed.” Utilizing advanced Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray technology, the firm successfully identified this extraordinary gem, a testament to the ongoing advancements in diamond mining technology.
Botswana is recognized as one of the foremost producers of diamonds globally, contributing approximately 20% of total diamond production. The discovery of large rough diamonds is an essential aspect of the country’s mining sector and significantly impacts its economy. Lucara Diamond’s previous major find at the Karowe mine—the 1,758-carat diamond in 2019—demonstrates a track record for significant discoveries at this location. The historical context of diamond finds, including the notable Cullinan diamond and its eventual journey into national treasures, underscores the significance of such discoveries.
In summary, the recent unveiling of a 2,492-carat diamond at the Karowe mine in Botswana represents a monumental event in the world of gemology, marking the second-largest diamond ever found. The discovery not only reinforces Botswana’s position as a leading diamond producer but also serves as a milestone for Lucara Diamond, exemplifying the combination of innovative mining technology and geological wealth within the region. The implications of this discovery for the future of the diamond industry and Botswana’s economy are profound, establishing a legacy of prosperity and pride in the region’s natural resources.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
