Lucara Diamond Uncovers Second-Largest Diamond in Botswana
Lucara Diamond has uncovered a 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana, the second-largest globally. This diamond, found at the Karowe mine using advanced X-ray technology, may be worth over USD 40 million. Botswana remains a key player in diamond production, contributing significantly to its economy, with previous notable finds underscoring the mine’s potential.
A significant discovery in Botswana has revealed the world’s second-largest diamond, weighing an impressive 2,492 carats. This remarkable gem, unearthed at the Karowe Diamond Mine, is operated by the Canadian firm Lucara Diamond. The largest diamond ever discovered, the 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond, originated from South Africa in 1905 and was subsequently integrated into the British Crown Jewels.
Lucara Diamond disclosed that the diamond was located utilizing advanced X-ray technology, although they did not provide an estimated value. However, sources cited by the Financial Times suggest that this exceptional stone could command a price exceeding USD 40 million. The effectiveness of Mega Diamond Recovery (MDR) X-ray Transmission (XRT) technology has proven beneficial since its implementation in 2017, aimed at identifying and preserving substantial high-value diamonds.
William Lamb, President and CEO of Lucara, expressed enthusiasm regarding the discovery, indicating it reinforces their investment in XRT technology and illustrates the potential of the Karowe mine, which has seen significant finds in recent years. Lamb stated that the firm was “ecstatic about the recovery of this extraordinary 2,492-carat diamond,” affirming its strategic investment initiatives.
Images released by Getty depict Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi showcasing the diamond at his office in Gaborone. Botswana ranks among the top diamond-producing nations, contributing to 20 percent of global production last year, with diamond mining accounting for 30 percent of its gross domestic product and 80 percent of its exports.
This is not the first extraordinary find in Botswana; in 2019, the country discovered a 1,758-carat Sewelô diamond and a 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona diamond in 2015 at the same mine. The Sewelô diamond was acquired by French fashion house Louis Vuitton for an undisclosed amount in 2020, while the Lesedi La Rona diamond sold for $53 million to Graff Diamonds in 2017.
The discovery of the 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana highlights the nation’s ongoing prominence in the global diamond industry. With significant contributions to the economy and a series of noteworthy discoveries from the Karowe Mine, Botswana continues to showcase its exceptional mining capabilities. The advanced technology employed by Lucara Diamond underlines the potential for future discoveries of considerable value.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
