Botswana has once again etched its name into the annals of history with the discovery of a colossal 2,492-carat diamond, the second-largest gem-quality stone ever unearthed. This remarkable find, made at the Karowe mine operated by Canada’s Lucara Diamond Corp., is not only a testament to Botswana’s rich natural resources but also to the advanced technology and expertise employed in the nation’s mining industry.
The Discovery: A Technological Triumph
The 2,492-carat diamond was recovered using state-of-the-art x-ray technology installed at the Karowe mine, specifically designed to identify high-value stones within the primary ore body. This breakthrough technology has played a crucial role in ensuring the minimal breakage of this extraordinary gem during recovery, preserving its stunning size and quality.
At the time of recovery, the diamond weighed an astonishing 2,498 carats. After careful polishing, it now weighs approximately 2,492 carats, or around 500 grams, cementing its place as the largest diamond ever discovered in Botswana and the second-largest in the world.
A Legacy of Exceptional Stones
Botswana has long been renowned for its contribution to the global diamond industry, with an impressive 80% of the top 10 largest diamonds in history hailing from this Southern African nation. The discovery of this 2,492-carat gem is a continuation of this legacy and marks the beginning of a new era in the recovery of exceptionally large stones from Botswana’s mines.
Since 1905, when the 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond was discovered in South Africa, no other gem has come close in size and significance—until now. The Karowe mine has consistently produced some of the world’s largest diamonds, including the 1,758-carat Sewelo diamond in 2019 and the 1,111-carat Lesedi La Rona in 2015.
What Lies Ahead
Despite the excitement surrounding this discovery, it remains unclear how the diamond will be sold or what its ultimate fate will be. However, the potential for this gem to be cut into several smaller stones or preserved in its natural state adds to the intrigue surrounding it.
Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi expressed his deep sense of privilege in being among the few who have had the opportunity to witness such a historic event. He acknowledged the significance of this discovery not only for Botswana but for the global diamond industry.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Botswana’s Diamond Story
As the world eagerly awaits further details about this extraordinary diamond, one thing is certain: Botswana’s position as a leading player in the diamond industry has never been stronger. The discovery of the second-largest diamond in history is not just a moment of pride for Botswana—it’s a symbol of the country’s enduring commitment to excellence in mining and its ability to consistently deliver some of the most valuable and beautiful gems on the planet.
As history continues to unfold at the Karowe mine, we can only wonder what other treasures lie hidden beneath Botswana’s rich soil. For now, the world watches in awe as this latest chapter in Botswana’s illustrious diamond legacy is revealed.
At DumelaBots, we celebrate this extraordinary achievement and eagerly anticipate sharing more as Botswana continues to make its mark on the global stage.
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